Gaels Crush Grand Canyon in a Win of Epic Proportions
Saint Mary’s shows impeccable skill and speed with the 92–3 victory over the Lopes By Isabella Buoncristiani ’28, Club Sports Writer
Saturday, January 11, was a clear sunny day here in Moraga—perfect for the beautiful game of rugby, and for the Saint Mary's Gaels to host the Grand Canyon Lopes. As it would turn out, it was a day for a Saint Mary's win of epic proportions, with a 92–3 victory over GCU.
The Gaels maintained dominance throughout the game, scoring try after try. And the Saint Mary's horizontal goal line defense was like a brick wall, denying any chance of a try by Grand Canyon throughout the match.
The game started off strong with Saint Mary's taking possession of the ball. The Gaels swiftly moved down into Lope territory. Tatum Pappas '27 ran across the line and scored the first try of the game.
The unstoppable Siale Ofa '28 continuously showed off his impeccable skill and speed throughout the game. He barreled his way through numerous Lope defenders and made his way down the pitch. Later on in the first half, Ofa intercepted the ball and was able to score the third try of the game.
As a Lope forward rushed towards the Gael half, Dominic Besag '26 approached the opposition with ease. In one prompt tackle, Besag took down the Lope and Saint Mary's clinched possession of the ball.
King Matu '24, MA '25 made another successful contribution to the Gaels' lead with an assist to Oliver Cline '26, who then scored a try. In the second half, Matu was able to secure his own try.
Due to his unmatched quickness, Mario Storti '25 was able to outrun the GCU defense and crossed the goal line for the final try of the game.
While it was individuals who scored the tries, team effort played the most important role in the positive outcome of the game. These men were able to play so seamlessly because of their teamwork, and it takes 15 on the field to make a stellar game like this happen!
NEXT UP: The Gaels take on University of Arizona in Tucson on January 18. Saint Mary's B Side hits the pitch at 11 a.m. Saint Mary's A Side plays at 1 p.m.
The Gaels C Side plays San Francisco Golden Gate Rugby Club at their home field on San Francisco's Treasure Island.