Following a tough defeat against UC Davis the Rugby Ducks had to turn the page and grind out another game against a strong opponent in Utah. In a hard fought game at Riverfront field the Ducks were again unable to secure a victory losing 41-21.

After a tough loss to Oregon in the Pac 7’s rugby tournament Utah had a chip on their shoulder and went up 17-0 early in the first half. The Ducks settled in at that point and closed the second half on a 14 nothing run. The first try came from a Utah penalty after Malcolm Durfee tapped and drew the Utah players offside. The second try also came courtesy of Durfee, this time after picking the ball from a ruck and scoring down the right sideline. 

In the second half the game remained close and the Ducks were gaining some momentum. Unfortunately, following some bad penalties by Oregon, Utah was able to regain the momentum with 25 minutes to go. The Ducks were shut out until late in the game when Junior Reed Vabrey scored up the middle to put Oregon back within two scores. 

Utah, another Division 1a Varsity program who’s ranked in the top 20, provided a tough test for Oregon. “We’re looking to push ourselves against top tier competition. Said Wes Walters ``This team and UC Davis showed us how much room we have to grow but also showed us how good we are.” 

Following this defeat Oregon will look to get back in the win column with an interstate battle with a familiar foe in Oregon state. The first time these two teams met Oregon state was unable to field a team so we will have our first true civil war game in two years. Oregon hopes to maintain control of the cup.