National Elite Battle in Tucson

The 22nd ranked University of Arizona rugby team (8-5, 3-4) concludes SoCal Premier Division play at home this Saturday evening when it takes on 3rd ranked San Diego State (8 –0, 7 – 0 ). The match will be played in the U of A’s Murphey Soccer Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, March 28, 2009
4:00 p.m.: Arizona JV vs San Diego State
(Match to be played on Rincon Vista Rugby Pitch)

7:00 p.m.: Arizona (22) vs San Diego State (5)
Murphey Soccer Stadium (next to Rincon Vista pitch)

Both located at Tucson Boulevard at 15th Street

The match is the centerpiece of a weekend of activities commemorating the 40th year of rugby on the UA campus.

San Diego State locked up the inaugural SoCal Premier Leage Championship when they defeated Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in middle California last Saturday 28 – 22. The win moved the Aztecs within one match of an undefeated conference schedule. The Aztecs are coached by former Eagle Dan Payne, in his third year at the healm.

Three of the five premier conference members are ranked in American Rugby News’ top 25 poll: SDSU, Cal Poly and Arizona.

Arizona and San Diego State met in California on February 21 with the Aztecs claiming a 22 – 6 win. The teams were separated by a razor thin 7 – 6 SDSU lead at the half. The San Diego defense was so tough that all Arizona could score were two Mike Getzler field goals.

The Aztecs have won four straight from Arizona and lead the all time series 25-23-1.

Last Time Out for the Cats
Arizona scored seven tries en route to a 48–32 non conference win over Colorado. The match was played at Rincon Vista on Sunday, March 15. Peter Tiberio and Mike Getzler both dotted down twice for Arizona. The Wildcats took a week off for spring break after the match.