Rugby squared off against cross-town rival Brother Martin in league play in a highly anticipated matchup. The Crusaders entered the contest as the favored side after defeating the Jays in last year’s state championship and again in a preseason scrimmage. But when the final whistle sounded, it was Jesuit that emerged victorious in a 22–20 contest.

Brother Martin struck first, dotting down two early tries to build a 10–0 lead. Undeterred, the Blue Jays continued to press forward despite a series of penalties that repeatedly placed the Crusaders on the front foot.

Brother Martin attempted to kick over Jesuit’s defensive line. The gambit proved ill-advised. Senior wing Ford Frischerz recovered the kick and stunned the crowd with a burst of pace, powering through two Crusader defenders on his way to the Blue Jay’s first try of the match.

Momentum continued to build for the Jays soon thereafter. Junior 8-man Oliver Burgan spotted a gap in the Crusader defense and seized the moment. Grabbing the pill, Burgan surged both around and through a host of crimson defenders on a thunderous 50-meter solo run to the try zone. At the end of the first period, the contest stood tied at 10–10.

The second half the Blue Jays cleaned up its penalty issues while intensifying defensive pressure, which largely unplugged the Crusaders’ attack. Nevertheless, a pair of unlucky bounces allowed Brother Martin to touch down twice more, giving the Crusaders a 20–10 advantage with 20 minutes remaining.

Despite the deficit, the Jays sensed that momentum had shifted. The Blue Jay defense continued to smother the Crusader attack. Under heavy pressure deep in their red zone, Brother Martin attempted a pass that struck the turf. Senior wing Tucker Graham scooped up the loose ball and darted in for a centered try. Senior fly-half Putty Peterman converted, closing the gap to 17–20.

With 10 minutes remaining, the Jays found themselves on the Crusaders’ 15-meter line with a lineout. Senior hooker Matt Scalise delivered a perfect throw to sophomore lock Theo Patrias, who soared above the line to secure the ball. Patrias immediately led an unstoppable driving maul, and 15 meters later he dotted down for the decisive try—giving the Blue Jays their first lead of the match.

Ten tense minutes remained, but Jesuit’s defense held firm until the final whistle. With the victory, the Blue Jays sit atop the league standings with a 2–0 record.

Follow the Blue Jay rugby team throughout the season and come out to support the Jays at their upcoming matches. Rugby returns to action on Saturday, March 14, at 5 p.m. against East Jefferson at Marconi Fields.