Cal Rugby was defeated by St. Marys yesterday. I don't recall the score, but it was something like 30-14. Honestly, the Bears just had it taken to them. As has been a consistent issue with early matches for Cal, there were a number of knock ons (passing errors), penalties at just the worst possible times, and the Gaels forwards are formidable. This may have been an indication of how good St. Marys is, but is not at all an indication of Cal's quality. Days like this happen to the very best of teams in all sports. But credit has to go to SMC. They were really the aggressors in this one. It's a great rivalry. This one was earned by SMC.

Yep, the Gaels dominated start-to-finish. Bears barely had any offensive series early as St. Mary's dominated the ball, and the Bears gave the ball back on penalties or straight turnovers whenever they had the ball. Bears settled down somewhat for the rest of the match, but still suffered from sloppy ballhandling. Gaels were punishing on offense, and we seemed to have trouble bringing down their runners one-on-one. The Gaels' kicking was also spot on (they may have converted every try, not sure).

Seemed to be a very gusty wind, with one of Cal's kickoffs barely going forward. But can't blame that wind for Cal's kicking or ballhandling woes, as the Gaels obviously didn't have those problems!

Kudos to a strong St. Mary's team, and hoping to see big improvement in our team!

Cal Athletics.

Worst. Year. Ever.

Cal Strong! said:

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Cal Athletics.

Worst. Year. Ever.

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Cal Athletics Not Strong.

Cal Athletics Weak.

Like Cal Strong!

O'Brien was a coach at Cal while I was there. I would have run through a brick wall if he told me to. Not at all surprised with his success.

SMC usually stands for Santa Monica College.

okaydo said:

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SMC usually stands for Santa Monica College.

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Not in rugby.

Aussie Bear said:

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okaydo said:

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SMC usually stands for Santa Monica College.

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Not in rugby.

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Or anywhere outside of LA County.

Aussie Bear said:

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okaydo said:

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SMC usually stands for Santa Monica College.

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Not in rugby.

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SMC has 31,000 students (about as many undergrads as Cal), has produced 1 Governator and 1 American Idol host. One of BI's most prolific posters has also taken some classes there. It's a pretty big deal.

okaydo said:

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SMC usually stands for Santa Monica College.

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No.