St. Thomas Recap

SECOND-HALF SURGE LIFTS ARIZONA PAST ST. THOMAS

A strong second half helped get the Wildcats back on track. (Photo credits: Josh Pearson)

Feb 1- Arizona put together a dominant second-half performance to defeat St. Thomas University 66–40 on Saturday at Sitton Field, pulling away in a high-scoring contest that showcased the Wildcats’ attacking depth and composure.

The match opened with Arizona striking first, as Saxon Gerstl crossed for the opening try of what would be a two-try day. Andreas Andersson followed soon after, bullying his way over from close range to keep the Wildcats within striking distance at 12–14. St. Thomas responded with a pair of tries to apply pressure, but Arizona closed the half with momentum when Henry Langrish scored from the back of a maul just before the halftime break.

Arizona emerged from the interval with renewed control, turning the match decisively in the second half. Isaac Morrill opened the scoring after the break, finishing a well-worked lineout move, before Alex Kemp dotted down following a clean line break by the backs. The score marked Kemp’s first try on debut for the first team. Moments later, Kemp’s brother Aiden added to the surge, pushing Arizona ahead 40–26 as the Wildcats began to take command. A quick tap from Lucas Smith then created space for Chris Grosse to score his first try for Arizona, extending the lead further in the 55th minute. Gerstl rounded out the scoring in emphatic fashion, finishing a long-distance effort and converting his own try before providing a massive assist to Parker Beilke late to push Arizona past the 60-point mark and seal the 66–40 victory.

“I felt this was a tale of two halves, and a huge credit to our team leaders for their calm and composure at halftime,” said Director of Rugby Sean Duffy. “We knew we had made mistakes, but they took the right amount of accountability and focused on getting back into the flow a flow and that's a great sign. Our finishers made a huge impact, exactly what you want coming off the bench. Many thanks to St. Thomas for making the long trip as it was a great match and we look forward to returning the series in Florida next year.”

The match also marked Student Life Appreciation Day, as several University of Arizona professional staff attended their first rugby match, creating a loud and energetic atmosphere at Sitton Field. The Wildcats will be off this week before hosting Cal on February 14th.

Arizona's full schedule can be found here.

Scoring vs St. Thomas

Tries: Gerstl (2), Andersson, Langrish, Morrill, Al. Kemp, Ai. Kemp, Grosse, Beilke

Conversions: Gerstl- 7/9

Arizona vs St. Thomas

6- Jacob Jaffe