In front of a couple hundred fans the Guelph Gryphon mens rugby team dropped a 19-0 final to the Western Mustangs Wednesday night at the newly turfed varsity field.  True to expectations the game was very physical with both teams trading big tackles and making multiple line breaks.  

Despite Guelph's defensive efforts, Western was able to take a 5-0 lead around the 20 minute mark of the first half.  The Gryphons responded with some solid defence and applied pressure to create turnover ball but were unable to capitalize in the red zone.  As both teams continued some very physical play something had to give.  Nearing the half Western took advantage of a defensive slip up to extend the score to 12-0.  

In the second half the Gryphons came out flying with some good phase play but once again fell short of the goal line on a number of occasions.  While Western once again made the most of a defensive communication breakdown and scored a quick try to push the score to 19-0.

Under pressure and with nothing to lose the Gryphons were resilient through the last 30 minutes including a number of aggressive goal line stands.  Guelph's defence held the Mustangs scoreless for the rest of the game but were unfortunately, not able to put points on the board themselves.  
 

Following the game, Gryphon Head Coach Darrell Devine said that despite the loss he was very pleased with the team's performance.  

"Although we did not get the result we wanted, the guys played some good rugby against a very good team.  We have obviously worked hard on our defense and the game just came down to a few missed opportunities," said Devine. "In the next few days we will work to refocus and prepare for our next game."

Guelph will look to rebound with a win against RMC this Sunday at 1:00pm at the varsity field.