The D1A National Quarterfinals have arrived and the top 8 teams are ready to duke it out for a spot in the big dance. Army, Life, Cal and BYU are all coming off of big wins last weekend to secure a spot in the quarters, while the remaining 4 teams; SMC, Lindenwood, Navy and CWU enjoyed a bye last weekend as they were ranked in the top two for the East and West Conferences. This Saturday’s matches feature some huge rivalries as Life takes on Lindenwood and Army once again battles Navy. Fans around the country will be delighted to know that all 4 matches will be live streamed on The Rugby Network. Here’s what you can expect from what’s sure to be a full day of hard-hitting, elite level rugby.
The day kicks off with Army vs. Navy at 1:00pm EST. The Midshipmen host the visiting Mules as they hope to repeat their March 24th victory against the black and gold. When asked about the bye week and how the Midshipmen are preparing, Navy Coach Gavin Hickie said, “ We are extremely excited to host Army in the D1A quarter final in Annapolis. Our training intensity has been on point and we feel we will be ready to go on Saturday. Our bye week was spent training, recovering and doing a few things as a team. It also gave guys time to freshen up before the D1A playoffs which has been helpful.” The team also recognizes the power of a home field advantage. Hickie notes, “Playing at home at our Prusmack Rugby Complex in the playoffs, means a lot to us. Without doubt our supporters add to the occasion and we are delighted to be able to offer all our families, friends and alums an opportunity to see Navy play at home again this season. Home advantage means a lot.” On the other side of the proverbial pitch, we find the visiting Army Mules. Coach Matt Sherman remains steadfast in leading his side. When asked if preparation changes for such a big game, Sherman calmly stated, “Nothing changes for us. Our team is familiar with single elimination play, has handled that pressure exceptionally well, and our focus remains internally on our performance and playing our best.” Be sure to tune into The Rugby Network 1:00pm EST to watch Army vs. Navy in what’s sure to be a barn burner.
Next match of the day puts BYU up against CWU. Similar to Army vs. Navy, these teams are no stranger to one another and have clashed many times before. The last matchup was a nailbiter, as BYU took a 1 point win to beat CWU 24-25 at home on March 18th. Now CWU has home field advantage and they will look to use their big ball carriers and crafty backline to flip the scoreline from March. Check out this powerful clash on The Rugby Network at 3:00pm EST.
Cal vs. Saint Mary’s College takes the third match slot of the day at 4:00pm EST. The two California powerhouses met on March 25th when SMC took home a 38-34 victory over the Bears. When asked on how preparation is going, SMC Coach Timothy O’Brien was humble and straightforward. “Business as usual for SMC with our training schedule. I’m never certain if an extra week of ‘rest’ is a plus or a minus.” says O’Brien on this past week for the Gaels. He looks forward to the challenge that Cal will present and recognizes the elite level of his opponent. Cal Coach Jack Clark, a man of few words, responded with a simple, “Nope,” when asked if anything changes this week. Understandable given Cals success this season. Check out this California clash on The Rugby Network at 4:00pm EST.
The last fixture of the day is the vicious rivalry, Life vs. Lindenwood. These two teams met twice this season and split wins. Life pulled away with the first victory in February at home. But Lindenwood battled back to prove victorious in their second meeting in April. Two matches, each team taking the W at their home field. Will the trend continue tomorrow when Life travels to Lindenwood? Life Coach Colton Cariaga maintains that nothing changes moving into this Quarterfinal match. He notes that his boys are, “Eager to compete,” as they travel over to St. Charles Missouri. Lindenwood Coach Josh Macy and his team is certainly feeling the buzz of hosting a home match. He says, “ Everyone flies a little faster on a Life week. No input from me needed,” when asked how the prep has been. In the true spirit of rugby, Coach Macy revels in the chance to spread the joy the sport brings. When asked what role home field advantage plays, Macy generously responded, “First and foremost, we want to be good hosts to our rivals and welcome the rugby community onto our campus. We have an opportunity to show everyone what a special atmosphere this University is capable of creating, and we don’t take those opportunities lightly. The 7pm (CT) kick off means there is plenty of time for tailgating and I’m sure the crowd will have all the preparation it needs to really roar Saturday night.” Join in on the fun by streaming the match live on The Rugby Network at 8:00pm EST.
These matches will be aired for free as a part of the partnership between the College Rugby Association of America, Major League Rugby and The Rugby Network.
*In an effort to keep the live streaming free to everyone, please consider making a donation to help with D1A Match of the Week production costs – https://bit.ly/3FfJ3vT
