Match Reports

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0><script type="text/javascript" src="http://hb.lycos.com/hb.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://ratings.lycos.com/ratings/lycosRating.js.php"></script> <script type="text/javascript"><![CDATA[//><!]]></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://scripts.lycos.com/catman/init.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://members.tripod.com/adm/ad/code-start.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://members.tripod.com/adm/ad/code-middle.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://members.tripod.com/adm/ad/code-end.js"></script> <noscript> <img src="http://members.tripod.com/adm/img/common/ot_noscript.gif?rand=774660" alt="" width="1" height="1" />  <iframe frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" width="728" height="90" src="http://ad.yieldmanager.com/st?ad_type=iframe&ad_size=728x90&section=209094"></iframe>  </noscript> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0 height="100%"><tr> <td valign="top" width=150 BGCOLOR="#CC9966" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="06ae5e32dkesoe.gif"> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <B>Match Reports</b></div> <div> <B>Updated 3/16/2008</b></div> </td> <td valign="top" BGCOLOR="#FFCC99" TEXT="#080000"> <div> <B> <A NAME="_match_reports"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></b><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#663300" FACE="Arial" ><A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE=" "><U><B>home</b></U></A></FONT></div> <div> | <A HREF="id38.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Announcements"><U>Announcements</U></A> | <A HREF="id17.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Match Schedule"><U>Match Schedule</U></A> |<A HREF="id35.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE=" Match Reports"><U> Match Reports</U></A> | <A HREF="id31.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Maps"><U>Maps</U></A> |<A HREF="id22.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Registration"><U> Registration</U></A> |<A HREF="id42.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE=" Accessories"><U>Accessories</U></A>|<A HREF="id25.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Program Overview"><U> Program Overview</U></A> | <A HREF="id18.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Code of Conduct"><U>Code of Conduct</U></A> | <A HREF="id23.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE=" Club History Background"><U>Club History</U></A> |<A HREF="id29.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE=" Beginners Rugby Primer "><U> Beginners Primer</U></A> | <A HREF="id37.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Rugby Tradition"><U>Rugby Tradition</U></A> | <A HREF="id28.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Coaches Corner"><U>Coaches Corner </U></A>|<A HREF="id36.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Parents Corner"><U>Parents Corner</U></A> | <A HREF="id47.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Alumni Corner"><U>Alumni Corner</U></A> | <A HREF="id20.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Related Links"><U>Related Links </U></A>| <A HREF="id21.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Contact Us"><U>Contact Us</U></A> <A HREF="id55.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Match Photos"><U>| Match Photos</U></A>| <A HREF="id44.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Tournaments"><U>Tournaments</U></A> | <A HREF="id53.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="_"><U>Video Clips</U></A> | <A HREF="id51.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE=" Emails"><U>Emails</U></A> | <A HREF="id54.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE=" home"><U>Hall of Fame</U></A>|</div> <div> <B> Match Reports</b></div> <div> <B>2008 Season</b></div> <div> <B>Saturday March 15th</b></div> <div> Our juniors played down at Glencoe Park and as is happening all too ofetn made up the bulk of the players with Alliance contributing some.  Nevertheless some very good rugby is being played and the U15s went full field with 10 a side.</div> <div> <B>Thursday March 13th</b></div> <div> The U19s played a Merit match at High Point against across town rivals Allen.<B>  </b>Allen has never beaten Plano and tonight was no exception, but they gave a good account of thenmselves and scored three tries to our 7.  Final score Plano 37, Allen 15.</div> <div> <B>Saturday March 8th - Jesuit Tournament</b></div> <div> Two Plano teams were entered in the tournment, the U19s and U15s.  This tournament gives our players a chance to play different teams from other areas, that we don't normally play.  The U19s played a very strong Broken Arrow team from Oklahoma and were beaten in a tightly fought match. The next U19 game resulted in a loss to our local rival, Alliance, whose experienced backs once again were able to find gaps and score.  That left Plano playing in a consolation match on Sunday against a young combined Panther City Vikings/</div> <div> The U15s came up against three Houston teams fielding freshman players  Our players struggled against Katy and St. Thonas, both schools with rugby a Varsity sport, but battled gamely.  In the match against a match bigger Woodlands team, our boys caught fire and played some scintilating rugby to come out worthy winners with 4 tries to zero.</div> <div> <B>Saturday March 1st</b></div> <div> All teams made the trek to Keller Sports park.  Our juniors played well and continue to pick up rugby skills every outing. Even though half the opposition were borrowed Plano players. the matches were competitive with some good hard running and tackling.  The U15s played a fine full field match with 9 a-side and the score was Plano 17 - 12 .  The U19/17s could only muster 13 players to play this important CUP match. Despite being two players short, Plano dominated the possession and field position for the first quarter of the match. A run away try by Alliance against the run of play opened the scoring.  By half time it was 12-0 to Alliance, but Plano had a lot to be proud of considerating the player imballance.  Plano continued to battle courageously, but it was to much to expect and in the last quarter with Alliance using all of their substitutes, Plano was unable to keep Alliance from getting three more scores.  Final score Alliance 34, Plano 5.  </div> <div> <B>Saturday, 23rd Februrary</b></div> <div> The usual U11s, U13s and U15s round robin matches with the 'Quins and Alliance took place at Glencoe Park, all starting at 9:00 am.  The standard of rugby at this level continues to improve and several new players got their first taste of rugby.</div> <div> The U19/U17s played their CUP match against the Fort Worth Panthers at High Point.  After a rather abysmal start, having given away two tries and being ten points in arrears, Plano started to play more aggressively and took some opportunistic chances against the new and inexperienced Vikings, eventually running out winners at 34-15.  A feature of this match was the "hat trick" of three tries scored by Richard Randall, playing only his second match at fly half.</div> <div> <B>Saturday Feb 16th.</b></div> <div> All matches were canceled due to wet weather.</div> <div> <B>Saturday, Feb 9th, 2008</b></div> <div> On a beautifull rugby perfect day, we kicked off the official  spring<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#BF0000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>rugby season on our new pitch at High Point. 9:00 am found our U11s on one half of the field and our U13s on the other half playing combined teams from Alliance and the Dallas Harlequins.  The coaches started with controlled touch rugby but half way through everyone was playing tackle rugby. While many players were new to rugby and some playing for the first time ever, the skill level progressed throughout the day.  Our U15s followed at 10:30 and again played  7 -aside on half a field as the numbers from the opposition were low.  The hope is as the season progresses the numbers will increase and the U15s will be able to play full 15-a-side on a full size pitch. Having players returning with two years or more under their belt as well as new players makes this an experienced squad.</div> <div> The U19s/U17s took on the newly formed Coppell High School team and just squeaked out a 5 - 0 win, with Ryan Kemper scoring the only try of the match. Coppell were inexperienced but athletic and game and if it wasn't for a couplde of brave try saving tackles by Max Manworren, the result may well have been different.</div> <div> <B>Saturday, Feb 2nd, 2008</b></div> <div> A friendly scrimmage scheduled with the 'Quins colts seemed like a good opportiunity for our team to get some much needed match experience especially for several new players who were  playing their first or second game.  Unfortunately Plano lacked a full complement of players and  the difference in experience quickly became apparent, as the 'Quins poured through gaps in Plano's defence.  Plano again showed a lack of commitment to the tackle as well as not applying effective defensive patterns.  There is much work to be done but the team can only improve.  A committment  for players to turn up to practice and be available for all matches is going to be essential.,</div> <div> <B>Sunday, Januray 27th, 2008</b></div> <div> Unfortunately the next Plano match on Sunday, January 27th,  was a Merit match againsty Jesuit at Jesuit.  Plano's lack of practice, new players  and Jesuits  longer pre-season preparation showed as Plano went down 5 tries to 1.<B>  </b> Plano had spurts of good rugby but a lack of commitment to the tackle allowed Jesuit some soft tries.  With limited numbers of players and several new players playing for the first time, the Plano effort was commendable and can only improve.</div> <div> <B>Thursday, Jan 8th, 2008</b></div> <div> The kick off to the season on Thursday, Jan 8th, saw the Plano U19s/U17s score 4 tries to 1 against Allen in Allen in a pre-season scrimmage.</div> <div> <B>2007 Season </b></div> <div> <B>Saturday April 7th</b></div> <div> The annual Alumni match took place on Easter Saturday with a good turn out of Alumni and a very enjoyable and spirited match took place with a record turn out of Alumni.  Each side scored four tries or so but nobody was really counting. It is rewarding to see Alumni turn out in this traditional annual event, have fun and cach up with their old team mates. Several Plano Rugby Alumni now play for the Dallas Athletic Rugby Club and we are encouraging all others in the area to dust off their boots and come on out and enjpoy adult rugby!</div> <div> <B>Thursday April 5th.</b></div> <div> This previously postponed match took place under ideal weather conditions but up until the last minute Plano was not sure they could field a full team.  Some phone calls eventually got us enough playesr but some positions had to be adjusted with players playing a new positon for the first time.  'Quins Colts arrived with players to spare and by all accounts had only just lost a recent match to the all conquering Alliance team.  The match started with Plano flat footed and 'Quins almost scoring from the start,  'Quins scored an early try and for a while it appeared that Plano was going to succumb.  A very spirited match ensued with Plano able to take the lead after their first try by Patrick converting it (7-5).  Plano soon scored again from a lone try by Sohad and started to look more comfortable.  However a spirited 'Quins team would not give up and unfortunately in the second half over exhuberance on their part resulted in high tackles and several penalties awarded against them for ruck and other infringements. and at one time two 'Quins players were in the sin bin.   Final result was Plano sixtries, five converted and one penalty goal to 4 tries.  43-20.</div> <div> <B>Saturday March 24th. </b></div> <div> The return match against Alliance was eagerly awaited to avenge the drubbing received the last time out when several Plano starters were missing.  From the start it looked like it was going to be another route as Alliance scored a try within a few minutes and stretched their lead to 24-0.  Plano looked lethargic but came back strongly scoring two tries and making the score a competitive 24-12 just after half time. However, inexplicably either Plano went to sleep or Alliance got stung into top gear and the rest of the match was a replay of the route experienced earlier in the season with Alliance scoring at will to deal another humiliating defeat  to Plano, 53-12.  Alliance must be favorites to win the Texas State Championships this year but with all seniors, will likely have to rebuild next year while Plano has several returning players.</div> <div> <B>Thurdsay March 15th</b><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#BF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>.  </b></FONT></div> <div> A combined Alliance/Plano U17s team was too strong for Allen and ran out easy winners scoring 6 tries to a spirited two tries by Allen coming at the end of the match.</div> <div> <B>Sunday March 11th.</b></div> <div> In a match to determine third place at the Jesuit tournament , Plano faced of against the Harlequin Colts in the not too unreasonable time of 12:30 pm.  Having previously vanquished the 'Quins convincingly in a CUP match a month ago, Plano were relativley comfortable going into this match but just squeaked out a win at 12-7.  A feature of this tournament was that all of the Plano JV and new players were able to get significant game time.</div> <div> <B>Saturday March 10th</b></div> <div> Twenty two players turned out for Plano in the Jesuit tournament.  Plano's first round opponents were to be Katy from Houston, but due to their cancellation, their spot was filled by Jesuit B.  This gave the Plano coaches the opportunity to play all their players and still run out winners 5 tries to 1.  The second match was agaisnt Alliance, a formidable team that had previously handed Plano a hiding on their last outing.  At the half time Plano led 12-7, with Alliance probably complacent and playing some reserves.  Alliance reverted to true form in the second half with superior experience and fitness to run out winner 31-12 and a place in the finals while leaving Plano to play for third place on Sunday.</div> <div> <B>Saturday, March 3rd</b></div> <div> Plano U12s played their usual match against Alliance loaning them one player each quarter to even up the sides.  Plano scored almost immediately and for most of the game the Plano team was able to outscore their opponents by 4 - 1. Next stage will be full contact and tackling and rucking will need to improve.</div> <div> A Plano makeshift U15s playing two brand new players battled their more experienced Allliance opponents and for the most part played well with the exception of some weak tackling.  Alliance was slightly ahead in the score count.</div> <div> <B>Thursday March 1st</b></div> <div> The U19s CUP match between Plano and Jesuit was played under lights at Plano's Jack Carter Park starting at 7:30 pm.  Referee Mark Woods sustained a calf injury 25 minutes into the first half and after about a twenty minutes stoppage, replacement referee Scott Bertrand took over.  The match was spirited with the Jesuit backline showing more consistency and experience.  Jesuit won several turnover balls as well with plano consistently losing the ball in the tackle, rucks or throwing loose passes. As a result  Jesuit scored five tries to Plano's one with the final score being 31-5.</div> <div> A combined U17s/JV Plano/Alliance team took on the Jesuit JV team and ran out winners by 19-13 scoring three tries to two.  Plano/Alliance players were a little bigger and stonger than jesuit and it looked like this was going to be a runaway win.   However Jesuit battled back bravely and scored two tries at the end to make the score much more respectable.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Feb 24th. </b></div> <div> A depleted U19 Plano team arrived at Gateway Park unaware of what was about to unfold.  The sand storm that was blowing throughout most of the match was nothing compared to the rugby"storm' on the field.  When Allliance easily scored their first try after ten minutes it was already obvious that this was gong to be a very long day for the Plano team.  The much more experiecned Alliance players were able to creat gaps and score at will by taking the ball wide and because of some indiffernt tackling byPlano in defence.  Plano had bigger forwards than Alliiance even though three starters were missing but instead of playing to their strengths, they took the ball to the backs who were totally overwcome by the expereinced Alliance players.  Enough to say that 87 -5 is the worst defeat in Plano's history and hopefully a feeling these playesr won't want to have repeated. The 5 points was a consolation try by Ron Moss who had a couple of good runs.</div> <div> In the earlier U12s and U15s matches the Plano junior teams outshone their senior counterparts against their Alliance opponents.  The U15s especially were playing against much bigger players and acquitted themseleves very well, tackling bravely and running in some excellent trys.  Well done boys!</div> <div> <B>Feb. 18th</b></div> <div> Four Plano U19 players, Patrick Richards, Bradley Luyt, Travis Mouser and Aaron Jeanes were selected to play for a Texas U19 select team against the USA U17s team at gateway park in Fort Worth.  The USA U17s are a national select team chosen from the best U17<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#BF0000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>players in the nation.  This match was arranged as preparation for their participation in the U17s rugby world cup tournament later in the spring.  Despite the Texas team not having played together before they performed extremely well and gave a good account of themselves just falling short in a 22 - 26 result.</div> <div> <B>Feb. 17th</b></div> <div> The U19s second cup match of the season took place against the Dallas "Quin Colts at Glencoe Park.  The Colts were not as strong as they have been in the past and Plano capitalized by playing some exquisite rugby to overpower their traditional rivals and win easily 41 - 10.  This is the first Plano win over the Colts in three years. The Colts have placed third and fourth in the past in the USA High Schools national championships.</div> <div> Meanwhile at Jack Carter park under perfect rugby weather the U12s outscored their Alliance opponents and the U15s fell one try short of matching theirs. </div> <div> <B>Feb. 15th</b></div> <div> In a U17s/JV friendly a combined Plano/Alliance team took on the Jesuit Rangers JV team at Jesuit under freezing conditions.  Despite the extreme cold our boys were hot and combined well with Alliance to overpower Jesuit by three tries to 1.</div> <div> <B>Feb. 10th</b></div> <div> The first match of the season for the <B>U12s</b> and <B>U15s</b> was in Fort Worth at the beautifully renovated Gateway Park against the Alliance club.  About ten U12s turned up and gave a very good account of themselves, playing a good variation of touch rugby and outscoring the opponents.  The U15s, despite having three  players brand new to rugby also acquitted themselves well against larger opponents and the contest was adjudged a draw.</div> <div> The U19s/JV team played a friendly scrimmage against the newly formed Fort Worth Vikings who played courageous rugby but were unable to hold the larger more experienced Plano team who were able to run in a multiple if tries against one lone score against.</div> <div> <B>February 1st - v Jesuit</b></div> <div> In a Cup match played much earlier in the season than usual Plano were not able to overcome their early season inexperience and went down to a more experience Jesuit team 7 - 14.   A 40 yard drive that could have been a try was not given.  </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B>2006 Season</b></div> <div> <B>April 9th - Texas State Championships finals</b></div> <div> Playing against the Dallas Harlequins Colts for third place,and having outplayed them earlier in the season only to lose on conversion kicks, the Plano team had high hopes of pulling off this match and qualifying for the Western Regional rugby championships. The only question was what the effects of the Plano Senior prom the night before would have on the team.Well, the team played some excellent rugby, putting multi phases together but the energy and punch were lacking.  Sadly several defensive lapses led to the 'Quins scoring several tries while Plano managed a lone try by Jimmy Jewison's solo efforts which was also converted.  To their credit the team committed to turning up and playing and never gave up.  Final score Plano 7 - 'Quins 31.</div> <div> <B>April 8th - Texas State Championships</b></div> <div> <B>First round v St Thomas.  </b>As was expected Plano came up against an experienced and well drilled team that quickly showed they were going to be a strong challenge in scoring a very quick converted try.  Plano replied with a nice break in the backs by Nathan Sowell who ran through the opposing back-line and scored with Kyle Kirkman converting for the extra points.   7 all.   St. Thomas were next to score again and just before half time Patrick Richards made a half gap to put Nathan into space again and score almost in the exact spot with Jimmy Jewison this time making the extra points.  Half time score 14-14.  The only score in the second half was a crash ball run by Jimmy Jewison that took several defenders to bring him down as he barged over the line and scored but could not convert his own try.  Final score 19 - 14.</div> <div> <B>Second round v Cinco Barbarians (from Katy near Houston).  </b>Plano had played against Katy in the Jesuit tournament earlier in the season and new what a very good team they were having been seeded #1 in the south. As expected Katy came out very strong and caught a rather lethargic Plano team on the wrong foot.  Within ten minutes the score was Katy 10 from two unconverted tries and Plano was facing what looked like could be a route.  Playing against a very strong wind, Plano improved its defense but could not make much headway in attack.  The half time score was 10-0 to Katy.  In the second half Plano played more aggressively in the rucks and forcing Katy into errors through aggressive tackling and also winning a few of their line out throws.  Plano's aggressive play was rewarded when Jimmy Jewison got the ball from a quick ruck and broke through several defenders and scored but the conversion was missed. Score was now 10-5 in Katy's favor with the minutes ticking off.  Plano started to get the momentum going in their favor and launched attack after attack but simple break downs prevented any further score.  With the abbreviated 20 minutes halves Plano ran out of time just when they looked to have gained control over Katy, with the final score 10-5 in favor of Katy.  The only consolation is that Plano gets another crack at the Dallas Harlequin Colts on Sunday playing for third place.</div> <div> <B>Under 12s v Alliance at Plano. </b>A well fought match by Plano Under 12s against Alliance Under 12s. We used the full pitch and 10 a side. The first half was close but Plano edged by Alliance 12 to 10. In the second half, the boys began to ruck better and began to run forward instead of side to side. It was a much better contested second half, which ended with Plano’s two tries to Alliances one. Time expired and Plano won 22 to 15.</div> <div> <B>April 1st - v Alliance.  </b>This CUP match was re-scheduled to 2:00 pm to accomodate players from both sides taking the SAT tests.  In the end the Alliance players did not get to Plano until 3:00 pm and were short of a full team.  Plano players made up the numbers and even though Alliance forfeited the result 28 - 0, a full match was played which as expected Plano dominated.  There was spirited play from some notable Alliance players but being disjointed from missing players they were starved of ball possesion and spent most of the time in defense.</div> <div> <B>March 22 - v Dallas Harlequin Colts.  </b>In earlier matches against common opponents, <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#BF0000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>the current Texas State champions Dallas Harlequin Colts had not looked as formidible as they have been in the past, raising the expectations of the Plano team of reversing prior season losses.  In a pulsating match under lights at Jack Carter Park and with a vociferous Plano home crowd providing support, Plano took the field and promptly fell behind as the 'Quins took their opportunities to score two tries.  Plano battled back but fell further behind when players were seemingly uncecessarily sin binned for high tackling. Plano needed to score two tries to win and this they managed except that the 'Quins in the mean time converted a penalty. With a Plano conversion kick to tie the game drifting outside the posts and just minutes from full time, the Plano team swarmed all over the 'Quins and did everything but score with some overanxious play resulting in errors.  Final score Plano 27 (5 tries, 1 conversion), 'Quins 29 (4 tries, 3 converted and one penalty goal). A good competitive match that could have gone either way.</div> <div> In a curtain raiser the Plano Under 15s played an Allen JV team.  Both teams accomodated a handful of 'Quins JV players. The Plano players rucked a little better and won an entertaining match 12-5.</div> <div> <B>March 17th - v Bishop Dunne. </b> In a CUP match re-scheduled from an earlier rain out, the Plano team traveled  to south Oak Cliff to play against Bishop Dunne.  As anticipated the larger Plano team overan their opponents, scoring frequently despite spirited defense by Bishop Dunne.   Pulling from a much smaller player pool, Bishop Dunne faces off against larger teams every year yet always comes to play.  Some spirited running by BD players gave them two tries in consolation to the many scored by Plano.</div> <div> Follwing the Under 19s, a well coached and disciplined Plano Under 15s team took on Bishop Dunne's JV in a ten a-side match and ran out worthy winners.</div> <div> <B>March 11th-12th.  Jesuit Tournament.  </b>Plano has not paticipated in the annual Jesuit for several years as it usually takes place the last week-end of the Plano Schools spring break. Needing match practice the Plano coaches canvassed the players and sufficient committed to the tournament.  Three matches were played  - against Milwaukee from Wisconsin, Katy from the Houston area and Westside also fom Houston.  Plano won two of the three matches relatively easily with the one loss against a very strong Katy team who fielded two USA Eagles Under 19s players.</div> <div> <B>February 11th</b></div> <div> <B>2004 Season:</b></div> <div> <B>May 2nd -  </b><B>Western Region Under 19 Rugby Championships semi -finals and finals.  </b>Having come second in pool play on Saturday Plano was now in the bracket playing for a chance to come fifth.  In contrast to Saturday, Sunday was bright and sunny with little wind although the field conditions were still wet and muddy.  Disappointingly, only 12 Plano players made it out on Sunday.  Some stayed home due to food poisoning, some due to legitimate injuries and some couldn't be bothered! This meant that Plano had to borrow reserves from other teams and forfeit their matches.  Plano played the first match against Austin, the second overall seed in the tournament who had unexpectedly lost one of their pool games the previous day. Plano played a spirited game, scoring three tries (two by Jake) and came out winners 17-7 although the game had to be forfeited.  The next match was played against Francis Howell, from Missouri who had brought 32 players with them and had lent us three for the previous match.   Now they would lend us their reserves again.  One has to wonder how a team traveling from Missouri to Texas can bring 32 players and a team traveling from Plano to Fort Worth could only muster 12.  This was probably the biggest disappointment for our club as we had 35 players on our roster.  However, the stalwart band of twelve plus the 3 reserves put up a good display but the weekend's play had taken its toll and sapped their energy. Francis Howell had some huge players who barreled over the line three times in the first half in what looked like was going to develop into a rout. Pride and commitment on the part of the Plano players saw us getting a consolation try in the second half and keeping Francis Howell from scoring.   Thus ended a season of what might have been.  Beaten by 2 points by the eventual winners at the State championship and losing again by two points and a chance to get in the final four bracket at the Western Regionals.  Nevertheless, this was Plano's most successful season having gotten to compete at the Western Regional's for the first time.</div> <div> <B>May 1st - Western Region Under 19 Rugby Championships pool round matches. </b></div> <div> The four top teams from Texas were bracketed to compete with eight other teams from the Western region which includes the Rio Grand (New Mexico and El Paso), Heart of America (Kansas), Ozarks (OK and Arkansas) and Missouri. Plano was seeded sixth and was in a pool with the third seed De Smet from St. Louis and the 10th seed El Paso Scorpions.  Conditions at the Fort Worth Rolling Hills complex were extremely muddy and wet following a huge storm the previous night.  The temperature had also dropped and a strong north to south wind brought the wind chill to around 40 degrees.   Disappointingly only eighteen of Plano's players could make it to the Saturday matches  which is too few to compete in a four match two day tournament.  Nevertheless Plano's confidence was high especially as we had come so close to beating the current number 1 seed and Texas State Champions Dallas Harlequins Colts at the Texas State tournament two weeks previously.  Plano took the field for the first match against the El Paso Scorpions who had been beaten only 7-0 earlier by De Smet.  The Scorpions proved to be a gritty, physical side with strong forwards who constantly pushed the Plano scrum back.  The wet and muddy conditions did not help as some Plano players were wearing cleats more suitable for dry Astroturf!  Plano's superior back line made several attacks and eventually were rewarded with a converted try to bring the score to 7-0 at half time.  In the second half, despite playing against a strong wind, Plano continued to attack and after some good loose play the ball was spun down the line quickly to Brett Rygwalski who dotted it down for the second try.  The conversion was unsuccessful and the game ended Plano 12, El Paso 0.   The Plano players huddled together against the cold wind waiting for the second pool game against De Smet, the outcome of which would determine whether Plano advanced to the final four bracket or would be playing for fifth place.  Finally, Plano took the field playing up hill against a gale force wind.  For almost all of the first half, De Smet was camped at Plano's end of the field and was doing most of the attacking.  The Plano players committed themselves to one  heroic defensive stand after another as de Smet pounded away but resolute tackling kept them from scoring and half time arrived.   Now all of the wind advantage would be Plano's. Just as de Smet played most of the first half in Plano's end, Plano was able to use the wind to stay in De Smet's half.  Half way through the second half Plano was rewarded with a converted penalty by Josh to go up 3-0.  It looked like Plano would be able to hold on by just keeping the play in De Smet's half.  De Smet managed to bring play to the half way line and Plano gave away a penalty retaliating to some rough play.  As De Smet took a quick tap, Plano did not retreat quickly enough and were penalized ten more yards.  This happened again and  a series of quick tap penalties brought De Smet to Plano's five meter line where they were able to create an overload and go over in the corner for an unconverted try making the score 5-3 to De Smet.   With just minutes remaining Plano launched into attack mode, had one opportunity at taking the lead with a penalty attempt that just went wide and eventually, as has happened too often ran out of time. This was a pretty devastating loss and the team sat stunned after the game contemplating what might have been.</div> <div> <B>April 18th -</b><B> </b><B>Texas Rugby Union High School Championships.</b></div> <div> Eight of the 11 Plano players who had flown back to Dallas on Saturday for their respective proms made it back to Austin to prepare for the third place challenge against Jesuit. A squad of 17 Plano players, some lacking sleep and leg weary from the previous day and prom dancing, went through their preparations to face Jesuit in a third place play-off. Unlike the previous two games slow start, Plano came out of the block from the first whistle and launched several attacking plays with Jesuit defending desperately.  However, it probably was too much to expect to be able to keep up the fast pace and suddenly Plano were making error after error.  The momentum swung and Jesuit began to do the attacking scoring two tries before half time resulting from a lack of commitment to the tackle by Plano.   The second d half was even more painful to watch as Plano was unable to raise its game and conceded two more tries and a penalty goal.  A fine consolation try by Jake Dickson who picked up a loose ball and ran 70 meters to score under the posts was one bright consolation moment for Plano.  Final score Jesuit 29, Plano 7.  It now remains to be seen if Plano will be invited as the fourth place team in Texas to compete in the Western regional Championships in Fort Worth on may 1/2nd.</div> <div> <B>April 17th - Texas Rugby Union High School Championships.</b></div> <div> Plano, seeded third in the North Division was drawn in the first round of the  quarter finals against St. Thomas of Houston - the South Division second seed.  St. Thomas are an experienced school with rugby as part of the school sports curriculum.  In a match shortened to accommodate the extra games that had to be played on the same day, it was always going to be a close affair.  Both teams appeared jittery and  made early unforced errors.  Plano looked out of focus and could not get into their usual rhythm or play to their strength which is speed on the wings.  The game was tied 0-0 at the half and again at full time.  A  5 minute nail biting sudden death overtime also resulted in no scores although both  teams escaped being scored on by unforced errors by the opposition.  In the last few minutes of the second sudden death overtime period, Plano found its game, raised its tempo and won good ball from some aggressive play by Brad Terry who had come on as an impact substitute.  The ball was spun wide to Chris Ly who drew a defender and passed the ball to Jamie McCameron on the wing.  Jamie put on the after burners, fended off a defender and dove over the try line for the winning try.   Game to Plano 5-0 and a spot in the semifinals against Dallas Harlequins who had earlier dispatched newcomers Katy 17 - 5.</div> <div> In the semifinal played against the Dallas Harlequins Colts two hours later, Plano had all the motivation to win having lost a very close regular season cup match to the Harlequins by 7-8, 10 days earlier. However, it was the Dallas Harlequins who came out of the gate with momentum and aggression and Plano found themselves defending desperately as Dallas Harlequins won possession of the ball repeatedly.  Plano seemed lethargic and unable to counter the Dallas Harlequins bustling aggressive play.  Some missed tackles allowed the Harlequins to score two converted tries to go up 14-0 in the first 15 minutes.  At this stage it looked as if Plano were in for a hiding, but an opportunistic play by Jake Dickson  from the back of a line out saw him weave his way to the try line and stretch over to score a try which Josh Stephens converted to make the score 14-7 to the Harlequins at the half with Plano still within reach. In the second  half, despite playing against the wind, Plano's fitness started to show. However a penalty opportunity to the Harlequins resulted in a conversion taking the score to 17-7.  Plano put on some pressure and a late tackle infringement by a Harlequin player resulted in him being "sin-binned" for five minutes.  Playing one man short and tiring, Harlequins  watched as the Plano forwards won a quick loose ball getting a pass out wide to Josh Stephens on the wing who accelerated past several defenders and sprinted 50 yards to score.  The conversion was no good and the score was now 17-12 with time running out.  Plano now had the momentum and Harlequins were defending desperately.  Twice Plano crossed the line but the referee could not award a try as the ball was buried and he could not see if it had been touched down.  With 5 minutes to go Plano was awarded a penalty in front of the Harlequin posts and chose to convert it making the score 17-15.  Now any score could win the game. Plano came down like marauders hammering away at the Harlequins defenders.  A scrum was awarded five meters from The Quins line and as Plano went to spin it out it was knocked forward for an infringement and the end of the game. Another close loss to the Dallas Harlequins and Plano must now console themselves in playing for third place against Dallas Jesuit Prep who were beaten in the semifinal by Austin Area, 17-5.   The final is between Austin and Dallas Harlequins while Plano plays Jesuit for third place and the opportunity to compete in the Western Region High school rugby championships which will be played in Fort Worth in two weeks time.</div> <div> <B>April 8th.</b></div> <div> <B>Plano vs. Dallas Harlequins Colts</b></div> <div> This much anticipated Plano Under 19s match against the current state and western champions Dallas Harlequin Colts kicked off in front of a boisterous home crowd with Plano having the better of the exchanges for the first 20 minutes.  Plano was able to use its speed and make several attacks but penalties and losing the ball in the tackle prevented Plano from converting its advantage to points.  Some momentum went during the last ten minutes and Harlequins began to get back in the game and recover their confidence.  Half time was 0-0. It was evident in the second half that Harlequins had changed their game plan and played to their strength in the forwards.  Plano battled to win the all important second phase ball from the rucks and in fact lost several turnover balls and gave away far too many penalties. A solo individualistic try by Jake who gathered the ball in a defensive clean up and then weaved and bullocked his way through the opposition to score put Plano up 7-0 with Josh's conversion.  Harlequins replied with a penalty goal and the game seesawed back and forth with neither team getting the advantage.  15 minutes from the end  Harlequins got a penalty near Plano's line and chose to run it finally crashing over for an unconverted try.  This made the score 7-8 to the Harlequins with time running out. Plano attacked but each time were rebuffed or lost the ball. Final score Plano 7 Harlequins 8.  This puts Plano in third place in the North division for the seeding for the behind Harlequins -1st and Jesuit 2nd for the State Championships.</div> <div> <B>April 3rd.</b></div> <div> <B>All three teams traveled to Denton to play their matches against three different clubs!</b></div> <div> <B>Under 12s </b>played a very competitive game against rivals Alliance,  taking an early lead and leading for most of the game. They were not quite able to hang on and lost by one score just at the end.  This team has improved in every game and have become more competitive as tackling has been introduced.   We look forward to them ending the season on a win at home next Saturday!</div> <div> <B>Under 15s</b> finally got a rousing win in a route over Norman, OK.  They ran hard and straight and Norman was no match as our team romped home scoring 8 tries in the process. Finally a just reward for all the effort and hard work of the players and coaches.</div> <div> <B>Under 19s</b> got started quickly with a try in the first 5 minutes against Denton. While dominating most of the play, the half ended with plan having scored three tries.  In the second half Plano  added pressure and scores became more frequent. Denton started experiencing injuries and because they lacked reserves the game was called early.  Finally score 38-3.</div> <div> <B>March 25th</b></div> <div> <B>Plano vs. Jesuit</b></div> <div> The much anticipated "derby" match against Dallas Jesuit Prep kicked off under lights at Jack Carter Park and again proved to be a close fought contest as it has been in the passed two years. Unfortunately this year, unlike the last two Plano was defeated 17 -12 in a match that could easily have been won.  The main difference between the two teams was Jesuits experience (they have players who have been playing for four years).  Jesuit was able to score two of their three tries through taking quick options and catching the Plano team unprepared.  Jesuit went up 12-0 through two tries in three first half.  Plano fought back and leveled the scores at 12-12 and was dominant in attack.  Five minutes from the end Plano was caught flat footed when Jesuit took a quick throw option and ran down the touch line to scored without a challenge.  The Plano team attacked valiantly but time had run out. Unfortunately we were not quite as crisp as we had been the week before against The Harvey School and gave up possession of the ball on too many occasions when promising attacking moves had been started. </div> <div> <B>March 18th</b></div> <div> <B>Plano U 19s Vs The Harvey School, New York.</b></div> <div> On a balmy Thursday night under the Jack Carter lights a full busload of The Harvey School  rugby players, coaches and trainer disgorged to prepare for battle with the Plano rugby team. This team is on a preseason tour to Texas in preparation for their spring season.  They have been having two a day practices and are serious about their rugby.  We knew it would be a tough game but within the first opening minutes it was evident that the Plano team, egged on by a spirited and vocal supporters group,  was up for this match and were not intimidated.  In the first quarter the Plano team dominated field and ball possession through excellent play by the forwards in the set plays and in the rucks. Unfortunately soon after Jake had to leave  the game after an unfortunate collision our momentum relaxed a little.  Nevertheless, we went into the half time with a 3 point lead by virtue of a place kick conversion by Josh.  The game to this stage had been played at a high intensity with Plano's tackling being very aggressive and effective in stopping most of The Harvey Schools attacks.  We struggled with converting our efforts into points and although we crossed the line after a very fine rolling maul that was ruled not touched down.  Two more penalty conversions by Josh brought the Plano lead to 9-0 with merely minutes to go and an unassailable lead.  Perhaps this caused Plano to relax and allow The Harvey School to bustle over for a try and conversion at the final whistle.   Final score 9-7 to Plano. Most aspects of our play were good but we will need to work on techniques to overcome spoiling tactics to our back line that prevented us getting the ball out to our wings as much as we would have liked.  The match was played in a very sporting yet intensive atmosphere and it was a good rugby evening all around.  We finished off the evening with an abbreviated '"B" match (which resulted in several tries being scored) so everyone got to play including three Plano alumni who had come out to watch the game!  Thanks to Frank, Craig and others who provided and prepared food and drinks our visitors enjoyed some Texas hospitality in typical rugby tradition.  The Harvey School were gracious to present tour captain Chris and the coaches with their logo ties.  We returned the favor with a Plano logo ball autographed by all our players.</div> <div> <B>March 6th: </b></div> <div> <B>Plano U12s vs Alliance U12s,</b></div> <div> Good match. We played well. Unfortunately, we came up short. I had the score at 29 to 15. The first half was all Alliance. We played most of it on our side of the pitch. The scrums looked good and the line outs as well. However, our loose play attacking and defending needs work. At the break, we were down 24 to 0. </div> <div> The second half was a completely different outcome. Plano held Alliance to one try, and, the conversion was missed. Good second-half effort by all the boys. We began to run in to tackle and present the ball well. This allowed us to recycle the ball to our side, and, Plano marched Alliance from midfield to their try line three times. All three times resulted in tries with no conversions made. </div> <div> If we had started the match the way we finished, we would have won. Not bad for their third match ever. (JT Hardin)</div> <div> <B>Plano U15s vs Alliance U15s.</b>  As the only other under 15s opposition in the DFW metroplex, the Alliance club is a benchmark by which we can measure our progress.  This is the third match against Alliance and by their coach's observation, our boys have improved tremendously. In the end we lost the match by 9 points and this may have been more a reflection of the fact that we were short of players due to spring break and had no substitutes to replace tired players.  Plano jumped out to the lead with two quick tries, and Alliance pulled back in the second half going ahead with some quick scores. We were able to score the final try but ran out of time.  Thanks to Scott Bertarnd who jumped in to manage and coach the team with help from Tyler Kincaide as our coaches were away for spring break.</div> <div> <B>March 5th: Plano Under 19s v Bishop Dunne Under 19s at Bishop Dunne. </b> The Plano players met at the Super Target to travel down to South Dallas to play Bishop Dunne in the first night game of the season. Despite the heavy traffic, and the start of spring break, twenty players made it to 3500 Ruggged drive despite the sometimes confusing directions. In pleasant weather and playing in the Bishop Dunne football stadium, the Plano players came out of the blocks meaning business and within a few minutes had sent the ball to the wing enabling Jamie to score. With Plano getting the majority possession of the ball, Bishop Dunne was left to defend gamely but Plano broke through repeatedly scoring on both wings and under the posts.  With the score at 40-0 at half time the Plano coaches substituted the remaining players and played one man short to match the depleted Bishop Dunne team.  The second half played much like the first but without the same frequency of scoring.  The final score was  69-0 in Plano's favor.  To Bishop Dunne's credit they never quit trying, defended stoutly and even put in some promising attacks.  Unfortunately for them they were lacking several players through illness or academic ineligibility and were also out manned in terms of size.  After the game, they graciously hosted us with hot dogs, hamburgers and Gatorade. Throughout the evening their demeanor was very sporting in keeping with the traditions of rugby.  It was also encouraging to see several Plano parents had traveled down to south Dallas to see the match.</div> <div> <B>February 28th: </b>While the under 12s and under 15s were attending a coaching clinic in Fort Worth put on by the Fort Worth rugby club, the Under 19s were doing battle with Weatherford Under 19s at Rolling Hills park in S. Fort Worth.  The game was a stop start affair with errors and penalty infringements causing the referee to frequently blow the whistle.  Several infringements at the ruck play kept us from getting any momentum in the beginning.  However some creative play from the loose resulted in us getting the ball wide to Jamie on the wing who outpaced the Weatherford defense and scored two first half tries with one converted 12 -0.  The second  half promised more scoring for Plano as we now had a very strong wind at our backs.  However, Weatherford stayed in the game and with some aggressive scrumming spoiled our ball possession on a number of occasions.  A penalty opportunity in front of the posts gave us three more points and put the game out of reach of Weatherford who now had to score three times to overtake us.  We could not get good field position, yet in a replay of the first half tries a quick ball from the loose to Josh on the other wing resulted in a half the field run to score a our third try under the posts.  The in front of the posts conversion was inexplicable missed!  Final score 20-0.   It was good to notch up another  W, but the lack of cohesive practice showed.</div> <div> <B>February 21st:  O</b>ur first home games of the season got off early on a bright crisp morning,  perfect  for rugby, against the Alliance club who are based across the metroplex in Keller. The under 12s started of the day at 9:00 a playing 7-aside rugby.  We had a good turnout and were able to swap complete teams to give everyone a game.  The Alliance boys experience showed but we did not lack for effort and enthusiasm and our boys did very well.  </div> <div> Following the under 12s, the under 15s got under way playing 10-aside on a full field.  They soon found out that rugby required technique and fitness as well as brawn!  We had some excellent efforts that resulted in scores, and with a little more match experience will be able to obtain more ball possession.  Fitness is another factor that should improve with match play.  We now have a benchmark to measure our performance against as we play Alliance at least four more times!  </div> <div> The under 19s team got off to a slow start and conceded the firs points to Alliance. The team was repeatedly driven off the ball in the rucks and had difficulty getting clean ball possession so that our attacks were not penetrating.  Just before half time we started to fin some rhythm and scored a momentum changing try.  We continued to progress in the second half and showed the values of winning quick ball when we scored from a second phase ruck.  Two more tries were scored after some wonderful interplay in the backs. Overall  this was a very  satisfying 29-7 win, but with lots of work ahead to get to the standard where we can challenge the state champions - Harlequins.</div> <div> <B>February 14t: </b>The Under 19s match against Denton was canceled due to the 4" of snow that fell overnight. This game will be rescheduled for later in the season.</div> <div> <B>February 7th - North vs. South Tournament.   </b>This annual tournament brings together teams from all over Texas and marks  the kick off of the Texas schools rugby season.  This year for the first time there was an under 12s and under 15s division as well as the traditional under 19.  This is also the first time this tournament has been played in the North and took place at the Lake Highlands Park rugby fields in east Dallas.</div> <div> <B>Under 12s.</b>  Our under 12 program got going with a "clinic" type game that started with 7 a-side touch and introduced different concepts of non-contact rugby as it went along.  The only other under 12 team there was Alliance, a Keller based team, who are in their second year of their program.  Their experience showed early on as our new-to-rugby boys were somewhat befuddled when it all started.   By the end of the session our boys were getting the hang of it and gave as good as they got and showed a lot of promise.  This was a great start to the program!</div> <div> <B>Under 15s.</b> We had enough players to play 10-a-side and again our first game for this group was against Alliance. Their experience had them scoring early and gaining a lead.  We started to catch up and by the end of the game they won 24 -20.  As with the under 12s several of our players saw and experienced rugby for the first time.   We still had two more back to back games to play at the end of the day against St. Thomas and Austin, two vastly more experienced teams.  Houston's St. Thomas under 15s have been together since elementary school at St. Ambrose.  Our boys defended valiantly but could not stop either team running in multiple tries - mostly around the edges.  Our players have not yet adjusted to the zone form of defending in rugby and kept going for the players with the ball leaving opposition players on the outside wide open. Poor scheduling also meant that our embattled and tired warriors had to go though two sessions back to back.  Nevertheless there was a lot of promise and talent shown and this augurs well for the future of the program.</div> <div> <B>Under 19s.   </b>After almost a month of poor turnouts at practice we weren't sure what to expect from our Under 19s. The first game was against Whetherford, the Texas and Western union runners up last year.  We were able to get the ball to our speedsters and came out on top 12-0.   Our second game against St. Thomas proved somewhat tougher as they quickly scored two tries on us and led 12-0.   St. Thomas did not allow us to get good ball to our back line and several times our attacks broke down before we could get the ball at speed.  Nevertheless we started dominating play more in the second half and scored a try to bring the score to 12-5. We were right on the line and about to score a second try when the game ended laving the final score 5-12.  Due to players work commitments and some minor injuries we did not have the numbers to play our third game against Alliance and had to forfeit this game.  However. we will be playing Alliance in a cup game in two weeks.  On the day we did OK but lacked cohesion and fluency due to not having practiced together with full units.  Our under 19s have great talent but we must have consistency so we can practice the right plays and techniques with the right combinations.  </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B>Results of the N v. S Shootout</b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="392" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 20 WIDTH="124"><div> <B>TEAM</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <B>SCORE</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> <B>TEAM</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <B>SCORE</b></div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> <B>U15</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="55" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="125" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="63" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Alliance</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 24</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Metro United</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 20</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> St. Thomas</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 32</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Austin</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 5</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Austin</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 42</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Alliance</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 29</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Alliance</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 5</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> St. Thomas</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 30</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Metro</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 0</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Austin</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 38</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Metro</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 0</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> St. Thomas</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 56</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="124" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="55" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="125" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="63" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> <B>U19</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="55" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="125" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="63" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> Highland/BDunne</div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 19</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Jesuit B</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 0</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Denton</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 7</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Quin Colts</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 33</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Alliance</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 0</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Austin Area HS</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 14</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> Weather/Panther</div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 0</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Plano</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 12</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Jesuit A</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 5</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Woodlands</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 0</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Denton</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 0</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> St. Thomas</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 10</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> Highland/BDunne</div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 15</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Allen</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 0</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Quin Colts</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 39</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Woodlands</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 0</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Plano</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 5</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> St. Thomas</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 12</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Denton</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 0</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Austin Area HS</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 31</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Allen</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 5</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Jesuit B</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 17</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> Weather/Panther</div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 5</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> Highlands/BDunne</div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 5</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Alliance</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 5</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Woodlands</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 5</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Quin Colts</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 11</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> Austin Area HS</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 3</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> Weather/Panther</div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><div> 10</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> St. Thomas</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><div> 0</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP BGCOLOR=#FFFF00 HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><div> Alliance</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP BGCOLOR=#FFFF00 WIDTH="55"><div> 28</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP BGCOLOR=#FFFF00 WIDTH="125"><div> Plano*</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP BGCOLOR=#FFFF00 WIDTH="63"><div> 0</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="124"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="124" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="55"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="55" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="125"><div> * forfeited</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="63"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="16" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="63" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <bR> <div> <B>January 31st.</b>  A stalwart band of  5 Plano under 15s players combined with players from the 'Quins and Allen to make up a 10 player team against the visiting Austin under 15s at Lake Highlands Park.  Austin under 15s have been practicing since school started and it showed.  We had two players who had never played before and three others who had practiced once or twice.  The experience showed as Austin ran in try after try by running wide on the full sized pitch. By the end of the game the combined Allen, Plano, Quins players began to get the hang of it and ended up scoring two tries. It was a good initiation to rugby for our players and they get to do it again next week at the N v S. tournament!</div> <div> <B>January 24th.</b> A depleted Plano team of fifteen players came up against the Texas and Western Region champions, Dallas Harlequin Colts at Glencoe park in a preseason scrimmage.  From the first set phase of play it was obvious that Plano would get little ball as our outmanned scrum got pushed off the ball and our line outs repeatedly lost. The team defended gamely as the 'Quins launched attack after attack, gaining almost 90% of possession.  We kept them from scoring in first quarter of play, however the constant pressured defending took its toll and the Quins scored several tries. As the game progressed, our spirits flagged as did our efforts at tackling.  There were several players absent for good reasons - SATs etc., but we also had some no shows. Our situation points to the need to have more depth and that players need to make a commitment to the program.</div> <div> <B>January 17th.  Scrimmage vs UTD at Lake Highlands.</b></div> <div> The rain came down in a deluge for two days prior to this scheduled scrimmage at Lake Highlands.  The team arrived to find the field soggy and slippery.  UTD being short we lent them a couple of our players who promptly scored a couple of tries against us!  The whole game was a battle to keep footing and not very conducive to constructive rugby.  Nevertheless it was an experience in playing under muddy and slippery conditions.  There were some good movements with the ball being passed wide on occasion despite the conditions but in the end everyone was glad to get home and flush all of the mud off!</div> <div> <B>January 10th. Scrimmage vs Allen/Denton at Denton</b></div> <div> After just two pick up scrimmages at the end of 2003 against Plano rugby old boys on break from college, 18 of the 2004 Plano rugby squad set forth for Denton to play in a round robin scrimmage against the Denton Under 19 team and the newly formed Allen team.  This was the first opportunity to see what the capabilities of the new Plano team were.   The first scrimmage against Denton provided surprising opposition from a team that had never won a match in the past.  The Denton team had always turned up and put in a heroic display but were usually overwhelmed by bigger teams.  This time their players were larger!  Turns out that the Denton football coach is an old rugby player and has encouraged his players to turn out for rugby!  Soon after the start Denton scored the first try and converted it.  Plano scored in the corner but were unable to convert.  It took another Plano try before the end of the period to come out 2-1 ahead.  For the first organized scrimmage it was evident that some of the drills that we had practiced weren't being put perfectly into play!  The next session was against an undermanned Allen team that had not yet had a chance to have a practice scrimmage.  Plano got almost all of the ball possession and Allen was left to defend gamely.  Plano scored several tries and some rhythm was coming into play.  This showed up in the second session with Denton where all aspects of Plano's play improved especially the tackling which kept Denton from scoring.   All in all this was good start to the season with perfect weather and a perfect pitch to play on.</div> <div> *******************************************************************************************************************************************************</div> <div> <B>National High Schools Championships (May 2003) results.</b></div> <bR> <div> The National High Schools Rugby Championships were held in Keller on May 16/17th 2003 and staged by the Alliance High Schools Rugby club.  </div> <div> In the Tier A  pool, 8th seeded Lake Highlands of Texas ended up placing 6th overall after losing the 5th place match to Penn high school from Indiana.  </div> <div> In Tier B pool second seeded Weatherford won all three of their games to place first in Tier B and 9th overall in the competition.</div> <div> This was a great result from the two north Texas teams representing the Western Rugby Union in the competition.</div> <div> The championship was once again won by  Highland School, Utah in a closely fought 10-8 win over Jesuit from California.</div> <div> For complete results of all matches played  click <A HREF="http://www.usarugby.org/cgi-bin/02/championships/show.pl?competitionId=80" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.usarugby.org/cgi-bin/02/champ"><U>here.</U></A></div> <div> <B>*******************************************************************************************************************************************</b></div> <div> <B>April 19th - North Texas Under 19 selects versus Ontario, Canada selects.</b></div> <div> The North Texas select team played against the touring Canadians at Dallas Jesuit.  The select team which was chosen from the teams in North Texas was heavily represented by Lake Highlandas and Weatherford players with some from Jesuit and Zee and Vijay representing  Plano.  The format of the game was four quarters of 20 minutes with free substitutions.  The teams were well matched with Ontario using the advantage of the wind to lead 14-0 at half time with two converted tries.  In the second half the North Texas team managed to score three uncoverted tries to win the game 15-14.</div> <div> <B>April 19th- Alumni Game</b></div> <div> A depleted Plano High Schools team (17 players) took on a powerful Alumni team represented by players from the the past three years and also propped by members of the D.A.R.C. rugby club in what turned out to be a one-sided match.  The Plano team had to play players out of position due to the small numbers and was never really in the game.  Nevertheless the game took place in its customary good spirit and the team and some old boys met at Outback Steakhouse after the game for a meal and farewell to the seniors.</div> <div> <B>April 12th - vs Austin inthe first round of the Texas High Schools Championships</b></div> <div> A squad of 26 Plano High Schools players traveled to Austin as one of the eight teams competing for the State High Schools rugby championships.  By virtue of its fourth place finish in the Northern Division cup matches, Plano had to compete against the top seed in the Southern division - Austin.  We had played Austin in the season opener tournament at the Woodlands, where they overwhelmed Plano by virtue of their bigger forwards.  We knew we would have a battle but were also confident that we were a much better and stronger team and could take Austin by surprise.  Well nearly!  Certainly the first half of the game was mostly in Plano's favor winning plenty of ball and generally outplaying the Austin team.  Half time score was 7-7 with Plano well in the game.  In the second half the tide started to turn towards Austin as they regained their composure and made several attacking moves scoring two more tries and converting a penalty goal to bring the score to 7- 22.  Plano did come back and were close to scoring towards the end but time ran out in the tournament shortened 50 minute matches.  A good game by Plano but not quite good enough to stay in the winners bracket. Perhaps had we had the mercurial Z and Aussie Sam playing, the result may have been different!</div> <div> Austin were complementary in the post-game discussions and admitted we had given them a scare!</div> <div> In the second round Plano was scheduled to play San Antonio, a team who had narrowly lost 19-21 in the last minute to Austin the previous week.  This was not to be an easy game but during pre-game preparations it was obvious that the Plano team was not mentally up for this game compounded by the lack of sleep the previous night from a couple of revellers who should have known better!   With Austin McPherson having to leave the game early in the second half  to drive back to Plano in time for Plano West 's prom, the team lost steam and the result was a route as the Plano team tired and virtually gave up trying to tackle in the second half allowing San Antonio players to run through the team and score severaltries. A dissapointing effort by the team losing somewhere in the 7 - 26+ vicinity.</div> <div> After a shower back at the hotel the team took a trip to the scenic Oasis restaurant at Lake Travis.  Despite the 1 1/2 hour wait the ambience and  view as the sun set over the lake  as well as the food were all well worth waiting for.  Thanks to Mr Andy Walker for his generosity in paying for half the meal, and with the club subsidizing the other half , players were in a good mood to explore the scenes of Austin's famous sixth street and get back to the hotel in good time.</div> <div> Sunday morning.  A tired and bedraggled remaining group of 19  (other players had returned to Plano for other commitments), arrived at Zilker pass for one more match.  This one to determine which team, Plano or St. Thomas, last year's state championships, would avoid the wooden spoon!  However, the Plano coaches were determined that all players who had made the trip would play and started all the reserves. Very quickly Plano showed that they were a better team than St. Thomas who looked well coached but could not match Plano in speed.  The rugby was not always pretty but Plano did what it needed to do and ran out winners 19-12 with Jeremy scoring two good runaway tries  A good way to end an enjoyable week-end.</div> <div> Overall winners of the tournament were Lake Highlands, beating Austin, 10-9 in a close final.</div> <div> <B>April 5 Plano vs Denton</b></div> <div> A rampant Plano High Schools Rugby team took on a depleted Denton Area Under 19s team at Jack Carter Park.  Coming off a high from the previous week it was difficult to know how motivated the team would be against a weaker opponent.  The Denton team were missing some players and until shortly before the game it was still uncertain whether they could put a full team together.   Fortunately more players arrived and the game started shortly after the scheduled start time.  It was very evident early on that the Plano team was going to play rugby and within the first quarter had already scored three converted tries to make the score 21-0.  Instead of slowing down the scoring pace increased with Plano leading 50-0 at half time.  Denton were not a pushover and defended valiantly but the Plano team was "on song" winning tight and loose ball and running into space.  Several players scored tries and three diiferent kickers shared the conversion attempts.  Towards the end even the Plano supporters cheerd a well earned Denton try in the corner.   Final score 76-5.  On a final note the Denton team and coaches deserve kudos for 1) meeting their commitment and making the trip down from Denton with a depleted team knowing that probably a defeat was in the cards and 2) maintaining their composure and sportsmanship throughout.  The true measure of a team is not only how well you win but how you respond to defeat.</div> <div> <B>March 29 Plano vs Jesuit</b></div> <div> What a difference a week makes! After last weeks dissapointing draw with newcomers Alliance, the Plano team faced Jesuit in a cup game on a cold, blistery Friday under lights at Jesuit stadium. Jesuit, a  perrenial fron't runner had to be the favorite having lost only one game all season narrowly to Weatherford.  Plano had a good week of preparation but the coaches still were concerned with the level of fitness and overall resolve of the team.  The match was refereed by Mike Geach, an international level referee and within the first few minutes it was evident that Plano were doing something he didn't like as the penalty count mounted to 6-1.  Despite this the Plano team was playing with determination, the forwards rucking well and aggressively and winning good loose ball. Shortly after the start the ball was given to Z  -  the flying Zimbabwean - from a quick ruck around the half way line.  Z put in one of the most electrifying runs to leave the Jesuit defense in the dust and score under the posts.  Austin converted - Plano up 7-0!  Fifteen minutes from the half it was evident that Jesuit had overcome their initial shock and were back in the game.  Despite some resolute tackling from Plano, Jesuit were able to put in some strming runs and score twice, converting a try and a penalty goal.  Half time score Plano 7 - Jesuit 17. Plano went into the second half with a determined attitude and looking for the advantage of having the wind at their backs.  Despite this the next quarter was played in Plano's half and only determined tackling and some wrong options taken by Jesuit in the backs prevented them from scoring.  The question was could Plano keep up the torrid pace and come back.? Shortly after Z  again left the defense wrong footed to score in the corner this time for a difficult kick which could not be converted.  Score 12-17.  With the minutes ticking by Plano sensed they could score again and put in the best maul and ruck charge of the game swinging the momentum to Plano.  A penalty was awarded to Plano within kicking distance but with time running out captain Charles elected a quick tap kick.  With the offense not getting back Plano again took the kick ten yards forward.  Charles once more got the ball from loose play, made another sniping run through the defense  and was brought down two feet from the line.  Once again the mercurial Z was on the spot to gain possesion and score his third of a hatrick of tries.  Score now 17-17 with the conversion kick to come!  Austin's conversion attempt while wobbly was true and Plano was ahead 19-17 with five minutes to go! Jesuit realizing that the game was ebbing away tried to pick up their  tempo and charged at Plano but Plano's adrenaline was now flowing and repulsed Jesuit's efforts with counter attacks and some determined tackling.  Finally the whistle and a jubilant Plano team had beaten a vaunted Jesuit for the second year running!   There were several outstanding individual efforts in this match but Plano played superbly as a team with every player putting in their best effort to date. It was a great night of rugby and a great Plano come back team effort.</div> <div> <B>March 22 Plano vs Alliance</b></div> <div> Under threatening skies a somewhat depleted Plano team made the long trip to south Fort Worth to play Alliance.  As the Plano players straggled in some minutes before the kick off, Alliance were warming up and going through their drills.  Two weekends without rugby due to spring break and lack of practice was evident as a lethargic Plano team, dominating most of the set pieces and looking dangerous in the backs, again and again failed to back up and get possession from the break down.  Leading 5-0 from a try early in the first half, Plano lacked any sense of urgency and muffed several opportunities to score due to a lack of back up for players who had broken through.  A lost opportunity to kick a penalty in front of the posts and go 8-0 ahead meant that Plano was holding on to a slender 5-0 lead minutes from the end of the game. Players lagged behind the play while an exhuberant if unpolished Alliance team launched several attacks through gaining loose ball possession.  The Plano team was consistently beaten to the ruck ball and Alliance sensed an opportunity.  An almost certain try was stopped by Takudzwa who brought down an Alliance player yards from the Plano try line.  The final minutes were ticking off and it looked as if Plano would hang on to a win, when just on full time Alliance took the ball wide from a ruck and crashed over.  Fortunately for Plano the conversion kick missed and the match ended 5-5. Alliance, a new start up team this year with no seniors showed that enthusiasm and persistance as well as aggression and passion for the loose ball can overcome a lack of experience. Plano learned that you cannot take any team lightly, cannot play good rugby without rucking.  While there were several good moves and flashes of  individual brilliance, a lack of continuity play due to a lack of fitness and commitment to the ruck ball is an obstacle that needs to be overcome for the Plano team to remain a competitive  through the end of the season and into the state championships.</div> <div> <B>March 6th Plano "B" vs Jesuit "B"</b></div> <div> On a clear Thursday night under lights at Jack Carter Park, a friendly rugby match between Jesuit "B" and Plano "B" kicked off. From the outset it was evident that the Jesuit team was well drilled in the basics and for long periods of time the Plano team was on the defense.  Jesuit took advantage of every penalty within range and had kicked three penalties to lead 9-0 in the first half.  Plano managed some sporadic attacks and had some very good individial plays. Unfortunately the support lagged and promising plays fizzled out.  Jesuit finally scored a try and converted and the game ended 0-16.   For Plano, the opportunity for several players to play a full game was welcomed.  Some players played in totally new positions and acquited themselves well.</div> <div> <B>March 1st. Plano vs Weatherford</b></div> <div> After a wet and icy week with no practice, the Plano players came to Glencoe Park ready to play last year's State finalists Weatherford.  The game plan was to run the ball the wide and not to try and play a forward battle against the bigger Weatherford forwards.  Soon after the start an intercept by Corey Robinson and a 50 meter run resulted in a spectacular  try under the posts.  Unfortunately even after two attempts (Weatherford balked by shouting on the first) the conversion missed.  Plano 5-0.  15 minutes later Corey picked up another loose ball but this time was hauled down on Weatherford's 22 metre line by a high tackle.  The referee awarded a penalty and Charles took a quick tap and passed  to Takudzwa the flying Zimbabwean who faked a  pass to cut inside the defense and scored a try under the posts.  This time Ali kicked the conversion through the middle.  12-0.  Plano ,looked good but the conditions were muddy and not conducive to open running.  The game started to slow down and just before the half Weatherford barged over for a try and in the process Ward was concussed and came off the field.  Score 12-5 at half time.</div> <div> The second half started and seemed as if the wind had gone out of Plano's sails with Weatherford starting to attack through their back line.  Plano defended valiantly but soon players started to get injured. Weatherford scored four more tries in the second half primarily taking advantage of Plano having substitutes playing out of position as well as tiring. Final score Weatherford 27, Plano 12.  </div> <div> The Plano team played a good game and the score was not a true reflection of the game. Plano has the potential to beat Weatherford but will need to match them in fitness.</div> <div> <B>February 22nd, 2003 Plano vs Lake Highlands</b></div> <div> This game took place at Glencoe Park, home of the Dallas Harlequins and the Lake Highlands/Harlequins U19s.  In a scrimmage game earlier in the year the Plano team had struggled to contain the Lake Highlands pack and got very little possession.  This time howver, a stronger Plano pack provided ample possession from the lineouts and scrums.  Due to the very wet and muddy field conditions, the pacy Plano backs were unable to get into stride and ocasionally took the wrong options when the right option might have led to a score. The game became a long succession of  line-outs, scrums and penalties from all the stoppages and infringements.  A missed penalty goal attempt by Plano in the first half which would have given the team a threepoint lead was the closest either team came to scoring.   Ten minutes into the second half an inexplicable lapse in tackling by the Plano team allowed a Lake Highlands player to run through half the team and score.  The try was then converted giving Lake Highlands a 7-0 lead.</div> <div> As time began to run out Plano waged several attacks and came close to scoring.  A penalty in front of the posts was tapped for an unsuccessful try attempt instead of going for a three point conversion.   Finally on full time after a series of plays Garrett Milligan was successful in dotting the ball over the line for a try.  The conversion attempt that could have tied the game  by Austin McPheson was  charging down by LH players as Austin was asking the referee how much time was left.</div> <div> Two more injuries saw Corey and "Rugby" Steve leave the field.  Players were hurriedly shuffled but Weatherford had sensed the change plus superior fitness resulted in them scoring three more unanswered tries.  Final score Plano 12 - Weatherford 27.</div> <div> A disppaointed Plano team, pondering how they let victory escape can take  several positives in how the team played compared to the previous match against LH. While they was all around improvement, continued work is need on improving  on the  basics plus taking the right options.</div> <div> <B>February 15th </b><B>2003</b><B>, Plano vs Alliance, </b></div> <div> A "friendly" scrimmage against Alliance (Southlake Carroll and area) took place under wet and muddy conditions.  Because it was the first time most Alliance players had ever played, the game intitially took the form of a controlled scrimmage with coaches on the field showing their players how to scrum etc.  After awhile everyone realized that it was better to let the players play.  A spirited game ensured on a makeshift field with the more experienced Plano team scoring four tries to Alliances one.  The inexperienced Alliance team did not lack for athletiscm and enthusiasm and will likely improve rapidly to where they are giving the more experienced teams in the area good competition.</div> <div> <B>February 8th 2003, Plano vs Bishop Dunne</b></div> <div> Making the trip in a bus from Oak Cliff a young Bishop Dunne team arrived at Jack Carter Park for its first game of the season.  From the kick off it was evident that Bishop Dunne would be no match for the bigger, more powerful and experienced Plano team.  Despite this it took the Plano team 15 minutes before scoring a try although they had crossed the line earlier but had been judged out of the end zone.   This opened the flood gates and by the end of the game, Plano had crossed for 10 trries without reply easily winning 60-0.  Despite being totally overwhelmed the Bishop Dunne team never gave up and gamely struggled to the end.  For Plano, there was some scintilating running plays but there were also plenty of errors and too many individualistic efforts as everyone wanted to score.   This was was not a true test of the team's abilities and we still have to see how we will fare against the stronger teams.  </div> <div> <B>February 1st. 2003, Plano vs Eastwood, The Woodlands & Austin.</b></div> <div> The Texas High Schools  rugby season kicked off with the annual North versus South matches played this year for the first time at The Woodlands just north of Houston.  Each team from the North played three shortened "friendly"  matches against three teams from the South.  A sleepy group of Plano High Schools Rugby players gathered at the Dart station at 5:30 a.m. and were on the road by 6:00 a.m.  Somewhere near Buffalo we all heard the tragic news of the space shuttle but did not hear or see anything.</div> <div> The two Plano vans arrived at Alden Sports Park only to find that all games had been pushed back one hour.  The condition of the pitches did not look good and there was no where to warm up.  Plano managed to find a nearby baseball diamond and had a good 45 minute warm up.</div> <div> <B>First Game:  Eastwood</b>.  Eastwood from Houston is a well coached  and spirited club that traditionally struggles due to their smaller size.  As soon as the game started it was evident that Plano was going to dominate the set pieces and gained most of the ball possession.  Despite all of the possession being gained by the forwards it took the Plano backs several moves with frequent break downs due to bad passing to get into a rythm.  Once this rythm was found Plano looked like they could score at will and managed two tries in the first half and another try in the second half with Corrie Robinson scoring two of those tries on the wing.  Final score 17 - 5 to Plano with a game Eastwood team getting a consolation pushover try in a maul at the end of the game.</div> <div> <B>Second Game:</b>  The Woodlands.  Perhaps as a result of  over confidence from the first game, the Plano team was not mentally prepared for this game.  In the first half The Woodlands, through superior forward play dominated possession and field position.  The half time score was 5-0 to The Woodlands but could have been more if they had not dropped the ball over the try line at least twice.   The second half saw Plano playing with much more commitment but still struggled to win sufficient ball.  The half ended 0-0 with The Woodlands running out winners overall at 5-0.</div> <div> <B>Third Game.  Austin. </b>The previous state champions aregenerally a strong team every year. The all-Austin team was big and athletic plus they were playing their second game after an extra hours rest to Plano's third game.  The match predictably swung into Austin's favor with their forwards gaining 80% of the set piece possesion.  The Austin tactic was clear and that was to get the fly-half over the game line and win the rucks. They did this very well often going into third and fourth phase.  The Plano team defended gamely but with a constant onslaught was unable to keep Austin at bay.  Final score 0 - 23.</div> <bR> <div> Summarry:  This was a first match of rugby for several new players who all acquited themselves very well.  The Plano team needs to improve on its set scrums and  getting possesion from the rucks.</div> <bR> <div> <B><U>TRU High Schools League scores & standings as of March 10th 2002:</U></b></div> <bR> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="215"><div> <B><U>North Division:</U></b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B><U>W**L**T</U></b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <B><U># CUP MATCHES</U></b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <B>Cross Division</b></div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="215"><div> <B>Plano High School RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>6    2    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>8</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>5</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="215"><div> <B>Dallas Jesuit CP RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>5    2    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>7</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>4 </b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="215"><div> <B>Lake Highlands RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>2    2    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>4</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>2</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> <B>Weatherford High School</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>2    1    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>3</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>1</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> <B>Bishop Dunne High School RFC</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>2    4    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>6</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>3</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="215"><div> <B>Denton Area RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>0    9    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>9</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>4</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="215"><div> <B>Mid City Warriors RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>2    3    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>5</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>3  Folded</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <bR> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="215"><div> <B><U>South Division:</U></b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B><U>W**L**T</U></b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <B><U># CUP MATCHES</U></b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <B>Cross Division</b></div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> <B>St. Thomas High School RFC</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>9    0    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>9</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>5  </b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="215"><div> <B>Austin Area RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>5    2    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>7</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>4</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="215"><div> <B>Woodlands Area RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>3    1    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>4</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>2</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="215"><div> <B>San Antonio Area RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>2    6    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>8</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>4</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> <B>Westside High School RFC</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>1    4    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>5</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>3</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> <B>Eastwood Academy RFC</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>1    4    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>5</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>3</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="570" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> <B>Stratford High School RFC</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="124"><div> <B>0    0    0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="112"><div> <B>0</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="106"><div> <B>0</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <bR> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="573" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> <B><U>WEEKLY RECAP:</U></b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B> </b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B> </b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B> </b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="573" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> <B>Dallas Jesuit CP RFC</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>  7</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>Plano HS RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>19</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <bR> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="573" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> <B>St. Thomas HS RFC</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>51</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>Denton RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>0</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <bR> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="573" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 33 WIDTH="140"><div> <B>Weatherford High School RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>44</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>Denton RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>0</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <bR> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="573" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 16 ><NOBR><div> <B>San Antonio RFC</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>19</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>Denton RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>3</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <bR> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="573" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 33 WIDTH="140"><div> <B>Weatherford High School RFC</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>25</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <B>San Antonio RFC</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>14</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="573" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 33 ><NOBR><div> <B>Bishop Dunne HS RFC</b></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>W</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>(Mid City Warrior Forfeit)</b></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="140"><div> <B>L</b></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></b></div> <bR> <div> <B>St Thomas HS RFC         59                                      Bishop Dunne HS RFC    0</b></div> <bR> <div> <B>Plano game reports:</b></div> <bR> <div> <B>March 16th.</b></div> <bR> <div> At Lake Highlands last Saturday, a spring break depleted Plano squad prevailed over Bishop Dunne of Oak Cliff by 15 - 5. Having just come off an historic win over Jesuit the previous week, the Plano team understandably had difficulty in getting motivated and this lack of intensity showed through much of this game. Also affecting the Plano team's ability to get into its stride was the fact that due to the low turn out, three forwards were corralled to play in the back line in the first half. Just as Plano was beginning to show its ascendancy  half way through the second half the game ended having been abbreviated by 15 minutes due to a field scheduling conflict thus depriving Plano of the opportunity for more scoring.  In the end Plano did what it needed to do to win its seventh cup game by scoring three tries to Bishop Dunnes's one.  An interesting aside to this game was the Bishop Dunne coaches effusive praise of how clean a game the  Plano team played!</div> <bR> <div> <B>March 10th.</b></div> <div> (Reported by referee Joe DeFina)</div> <div> The Plano ISD team won a thrilling match against the Jesuit Rangers. These teams are fast becoming arch rivals in North Texas. </div> <div> I had previously refereed these 2 teams back in January. At the time I thought both sides were more interested in aping a pay-per-view Ultimate Fight than playing rugby. However, with 2 solid months of coaching and commitment under their belts both sides played constructive rather than destructive rugby. No foul play, no fighting, no complaining, just rugby. </div> <div> Plano’s side was decidedly bigger and just as quick as the Jesuit side. Plano won Jesuit rucks by supplying numbers, staying on their feet, and pushing over the ball. They created slightly more space by winning the rucks. While their fly half and inside center gained ground by running straight. Jesuit showing no fear made tackle after tackle but just couldn't recycle the ball quick enough to take advantage of the Plano side. </div> <div> Plano in the spirit of rugby threw a party in their park with grilled hot-dogs and Gatorade for all. </div> <div> Thanks for a nice Sunday afternoon.</div> <bR> <div> <B>March 2nd.</b></div> <div> Having been overwhelmed by a rampant St. Thomas team the previous day,  a determined Plano team came out aggressively against Austin Area Schools, the current Western Conference champions, and were up 10 - 0 at the half by way of two unconverted tries.  However, Plano  was unable to sustain the energy displayed in the first half due to the toll of being on the road and having played a tough game the previous day.  The result was that Austin were allowed to get back in the game and eventually ran out winners at 15 - 10. A positive to be taken from this game is that Plano can be competitive with the best in the league and with slightly different circumstances could have been the winners in this game.</div> <bR> <div> <B>March 1st.</b></div> <div> (Report by the referee - Lansdale Cranford)</div> <div> The Plano team arrived late due to the cold difficult weather conditions in Dallas and that was an unsettling start for the boys. </div> <div> St Thomas on the other hand had plenty of time to prepare for the game which had to be delayed 45 min. </div> <div> The St Ambrose pitch being small took its toll right from the kick off as Plano seemed unable to judge the kicking distance and the ball was turned over on most of the kick offs in the first half. </div> <div> The set scrums and lineouts were good from both teams and the difference was the consistant powerful straight running by the St Thomas backs and good passing to the outside. The Plano backs seemed unable to get into their stride and frequent offsides at the rucks in the first half pushed them back towards their own line. The only score by Plano was the the result of some determined running although there could have been another score from Plano but due to the configuration of the pitch the goal posts are on the deadball line and scoring behind the posts out of the playing area and therefore dead. This is certainly confusing, not just for the players, and certainly gives the home side an advantage. </div> <div> The game was well played by both sides, well done. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Sat Feb 23rd.</b></div> <div> A galant but undersized Eastwood side made the five hour trip from Houston in a delapidated yellow bus only to be overwhelmed 40 - 5 by a more athletic Plano team.  To their credit Eastwood maintained a sporting attitude throught the game and post game actitivities.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Sat Feb 16th.</b></div> <div> In a Texas High Schools Rugby League home match at Jack Carter Park in Plano, the Plano High Schools Rugby Team just prevailed to win 12-8 in a hard fought and close encounter against Lake Highlands Area. </div> <div> In an ill-tempered, error-prone scrappy match with neither team able to get into rythm, Lake Highlands was the first to score with a three point penalty kick (field goal). Soon after Plano replied with an unconverted try scored from a quick tap penalty; Plano 5 -3. Plano was able to cross Lake Highlands try line again and this time made the two point conversion. Plano 12 - Lake Highlands 3. Lake Highlands came charging back and were rewaded with an unconverted try in the corner. Plano 12 - Lake Highlands 8. Several other Lake Highlands attacks came close to scoring but for some good defense from Plano together with a bit of luck.  With Lake Highlands pressing right to the end a last minute upset win for the Lake Highlands "Baa Baas" appeared imminent when one of their players crossed the line under the posts but unfortunately he lost the ball before dotting it down. Soon after the ball was carried into and touched down in Plano's try zone by Plano.  This would now have been a 5 metre scrum to Lake Highlands but fortunately the final whistle went and Plano had prevailed for their fourth straight (if lucky) cup win and now lead the Northern division.  Plano were unable to play their traditional running game against Lake Highlands with the backs getting very little chance to run the ball despite several penalty opportunities to run it wide. Referee decisions and (imagined?) transgressions by their opponents caused Plano to lose focus and not play their game.</div> <div> A  "B" game friendly against Carroll High School was won 17 - 5 by Plano.  With one or two exceptions, Plano players were more focused on getting on with the game than were their "A" team counterparts and played more constructively.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Saturday Feb 9th.</b></div> <div> Thirty Plano players arrived in Austin by van, cars and SUVs for the annual North vs. South high schools rugby fixture, held this year at Burr field, the home of the Austin rugby club.   Twelve High school teams, six from each division each played two cross-divisional cup games. </div> <div> An overnight stay at the comfortable Drury Inn had the majority Plano players well rested and looking forward to their two matches against their Southern division opponents.  The first game was against the Houston Westside team.   Soon after the start Plano got quick ball out to  the backs and a try was quickly scored.  A further try was scored with the half time score 10-0, ace kicker Ali unable to convert either try.  Plano looked poised and confident as the second half began with Plano playing into the the wind.  A spirited Westside started to press with Plano apparently going to sleep and soon the score was 10-5 with Westside smelling opportunity.  A penalty kick at goal by Plano resulted in a 13 - 5 margin,<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#BF0000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>still not enough for comfort with Westside bringing the score to 13 -10 shortly after.  Finally, a Plano converted try clinched the game 20-10. The Plano team looked very sharp when quick ball was passed out to the wings.  Unfortunately too many passes went astray, possibly due to the strong wind, and more scoring opportunities were missed.  Plano also gave away more penalties than Westside.</div> <div> Plano was well rested after a four hour gap until its second game against first year team San Antonio. The game was a mirror of the first game with the Plano backs looking dangerous whenever they got quick ball.   The Plano forwards showed more urgency and commitment into the rucks resulting in some good possesion.   Again, a slump in the second half allowed San Antonio to camp on Plano's goal,`line and eventuallly score a crash over try.  Plano's defense up until that point had been solid and some strong  efforts in the forwards kept San Antonio at bay.  Finally with the score at 14-5 and a minute to go Plano took a quick drop out, regained possesion and run in to score behind the posts.   Final score Plano 21 - San Antonio 5.</div> <div> <B>Sunday Feb 3rd.</b></div> <div> A depleted Plano team met Weatherford in Weatherford for a friendly match on Sunday, this being start up Weatherford's second game. Despite being a new team with some players playing their first game ever, Weatherford proved to be a very well coached, disciplined team.  Throughout the four 20 minute "quarters" game, Weatherford denied Plano ball possession, winning several of Plano's own scrums and lineouts. In spite of the one sided possession of the ball, and advantageous field position in Plano's half most of the game,Weatherford managed to score two tries only thanks to  some sterling defense by Plano and a rooky back-line.  Finally some spirited attacking maul's and rucks by Plano halfway through the last "quarter" gave some hope that Plano could score but it was too little too late and Weatherforsd's defense held.   Final score Weatherford 0, Plano 12.</div> <div> <B>Saturday Feb 2nd.</b></div> <div> Plano's first Cup game of the season took place at the home field, Jack Carter Park.  Due to a mix up in scheduling the start of the game was delayed 2 1/2 hours and had to be refereed by the coaches.  Nevertheless a spirited and good natured game was played with minimum talk, no confrontations and no complaining about the referees!  Plano was on fire with some fine running by the back line who were fed plenty of ball by the forwards. Denton struggled gamely to the end and were rewarded with a converted try.  However, they were no match for the talent rich Plano team  who scored several tries and won convincingly by  54 - 7.  A short "B" game followed with Plano winning by three tries to two.</div> <div> <B>Friday, Jan 25th</b></div> <div> The following match report on the Plano A vs Jesuit A game was written by the referee - Joe de Fina</div> <div> The testostrone on the pitch ran high as the Plano boys took the opening kicking off and charged headlong into the Jesuit side. Each team and all team members committed body and soul to the match. If men`s clubs played with the speed, volumn, and velocity of these high schoolers, I do not believe they would be able to get out of bed until the Wednesday following the match. Each team committed 8 men to the rucks and mauls. The players ran goal line to goal line - not touch line to touch line. They ran hard and they ran fast. I am still trying to catch my breathe. Both sides passed the ball out so that the wingers on both teams saw the ball multiple times. When was the last time a men`s club did that? The score at the half 7-5 Plano. </div> <div> As an upset was brewing (I considered Jesuit the favorite as they were the home club), Jesuit pressured and pressured again. Plano gained relief but Jesuit came back in the 50th minute (remember U-19 only play 2 30s) Plano was awarded a defense scrum in front of their posts because of a Jesuit knock-on. Plano won their ball. The scrum-half passed back into in-goal his pass was missed played (dropped) and landed in in-goal at a Plano players feet; a subsitute Jesuit player dove for the ball and a try. TRY AWARDED! 12-7 Jesuit. But there was no stopping Plano. Plano managed to gain control of the ball from the ensuing kick off and charge toward the goal line. Into in-goal everyone spilled. With the ball never being touched down, a whistle stopped play, and a 5-meter attacking scrum awarded. But a miss-timed word about the referee`s ability and a dangrous tackle penatly against Plano relieved the pressure. Jesuit hangs on for the win. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Plano vs Jesuit "B" game</b> - Written by referee Randy Campbell.</div> <div> It was on the cold side by the time this game kicked off but that was the only thing cold about this game. </div> <div> It was tied 5-5 at half but with time running out Plano score the winning try.  Final score 10-5.</div> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>