Titusville, Fla. - In a thrilling Florida Collegiate Conference Division 1 final on April 12th in sunny, rugby-filled Titusville, the St. Thomas University Bobcats faced off against Florida State University (FSU) in a highly anticipated match. With both the men's and women's Division 2 finals preceding the main event, the atmosphere was buzzing, and the tension was palpable. The 4pm kick-off had everyone on the edge of their seats as both teams knew this would be a battle.
FSU, seeded 2nd in Florida and 8th in the nation, kicked off the match, but it was STU that struck first. Fullback Mapani made an early impact, scoring the first try of the game in the 4th minute, giving the Bobcats an early lead. However, FSU quickly answered, using their strong phase play and disciplined kicking to capitalize on STU's penalties at the ruck. This allowed FSU to convert two penalties, taking a 6-5 lead.
The game continued with fierce physicality, especially in the midfield, where both teams clashed in thunderous encounters, each trying to outmuscle the other. STU's repeated infringements led to a yellow card for hooker Daniel Crawford, and FSU capitalized on the advantage by scoring their first try, extending their lead.
But things got even more difficult for the Bobcats when flanker Emiliano Fernandez received a second yellow card, followed by a third for lock Fletcher Vandeman. With only 13 men on the field, STU dug deep in defense, and despite FSU adding a penalty to their tally, the Bobcats held firm.
As halftime approached, the Bobcats were trailing 16-10, but they were far from out of it. A spirited halftime speech from STU President David Armstrong inspired the team to find their second wind. The physical battle resumed, and in the 52nd minute, vice-captain Owen Phillips scored a crucial try, bringing the Bobcats within striking distance.
The momentum continued to swing in STU's favor. With the impact of fresh substitutes, Ivan Moore made a key play, stealing the ball at the back of the ruck and scoring a try to put the Bobcats ahead for the first time. From there, the Bobcats took control, and captain Welton Charumbira added two more tries, both well-worked pieces of rugby that solidified the Bobcats' dominance.
However, the drama didn't end there. In the second half, Harry Ryan was shown a yellow card after Ivan's try, adding to the intensity of the game. FSU managed to score a late try, but it was too little, too late, and the Bobcats held on for a 39-26 victory.
The final whistle blew, and the Bobcats celebrated a well-deserved victory. Emotions were high as the team embraced, received their medals, and lifted the trophy, reaffirming their status as the best rugby team in Florida. With the Division 1 state championship secured, all eyes now turn to Indianapolis, where the Bobcats will compete for the national championship on May 2nd.
