Tennessee High School Rugby

Boys Cup Final
May 13th, 2007
Fighting Irish 17 - Brighton 0

Fighting Irish Wins State Rugby Championship

The Fighting Irish High School boys became the 2007 State Rugby Champions when they bested Brighton H.S. by a score of 17-0 in the Cup championship match.

The Fighting Irish reached the championship round by beating Maryville High School 17-10 in the semi-finals, while Brighton moved into the finals by defeating 5 time State Champions, Brentwood, 20-12.

In this game, Brighton was intent on getting the ball out to their speedy backs and make plays in the open field. However, it was not to be as the Fighting Irish were formidable with their pressure, applying many big tackles in the back field. As the game wore on, Brighton's back-line became skiddish and always braced for the big hit which caused many knock ons and errant passes. The Irish scored first on a penalty for a scrum infraction, and MVP #10 Ryan Blair bulled in for the try. Conversion made, 7-0. The second score came from more strong defense as the FI's backs picked up a poorly handled Brighton ball and raced iin for the try. Conversion missed. 12-0.

The second half was more of the same as the Fighting Irish worked hard to maintain possession with their pack and worked several successful phases. In fact, Brighton saw very little ball and when they did their #15 and wings were constantly being harrassed and frustrated. Towards the end of the game, the Irish scored again on a quick tap from Blair who knotched his third try of the game. Conversion missed, 17-0.