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The Rice Thresher
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by Paul Aronson thresher staff Missed opportunities spelled doom for the men's club rugby team as Rice suffered its first defeat of the season, falling 27-5 to the University of Texas Saturday in Austin. The Owls knew that Texas would be a formidable foe after losing to the Longhorns in a friendly match in the fall. Yet, throughout the first half, Rice appeared to have the upper hand. The Owls dominated play, rarely allowing the Longhorns onto their half of the field and constantly threatening to score. Despite the offensive pressure, Rice could not break into the try zone and failed to capitalize on its opportunities. "We won the scrums, we won the rucks, we were No. 1 in every facet of the game, but within five meters of the try line we made every mistake we could," junior flanker Juan Rodriguez said. Both teams were scoreless at the half, and the Owls' inability to get on the scoreboard in the period ultimately cost them the game. Texas scored quickly after receiving the second-half kickoff, breaking through the line for an 80-yard try. Moments later, they again busted through from 80 yards out for a second try that put the Owls down 12-0. "There was a problem with our alignment and we didn't adjust," Rodriguez said. The Owls found themselves behind and unable to recover. Senior Brad Lega scored the Owls' lone try of the game. Following the loss, this weekend's games are crucial. Rice hosts Sam Houston State University Saturday and heads to Baton Rouge to face Louisiana State University Sunday. Last year, the Owls beat Sam Houston State but lost 16-15 to LSU. Rice may only be able to afford one more loss this season if they plan to make a return trip to the Sweet 16. "These games are pretty much do or die," Rodriguez said. "Everyone in our league is tough this year, and each win is critical if we are going to finish in the top three and advance to the playoffs."
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