Life University Athletics

FORTRESS OBETZ, Ohio ---- The Life University men's club rugby team defeated the Austin Blacks in the D1 Club National Championship 28-27 over the weekend.

Both teams battled in the early minutes, as Sam Cowley put points on the board first to give Life U an early 3-0 lead 18 minutes into the game. Zac Mizell scored a try five minutes later with a successful conversion from Cowley to put the Running Eagles ahead 10-0.

Austin responded with back to back penalties, however Cowley broke through the defense to score his first try of the match in the 38th minute. With a successful conversion, Cowley gave the Running Eagles a 17-6 lead. Seconds before the halftime whistle, Austin was awarded a penalty try to make the score 17-13 at the half.

Three minutes into the second half Cowley converted another penalty to put Life U ahead 20-13. A kick through the defensive line saw Austin White come up with the ball to score the try, and the Running Eagles lead 25-13 with just over 25 minutes remaining in the match.

Austin refused to go down without a fight and scored a try in the 58th and 65th minute to take a 27-25 lead over Life U. Battling for possession, the Running Eagles earned a penalty just outside the 22 in Austin territory that set up Cowley for the win. As the clock ran to under a minute, Cowley converted on the penalty to put Life U ahead 28-27. The Running Eagles maintained possession of the ball until a kick out of bounds brought on the final whistle with Life U earning the title, 28-27.

For his efforts during the match, Cowley was named the MVP for the match with a try, two conversions and three penalties.

Photo Credit: Dr. Dennis Hawk 

The full recap from FloRugby including interviews can be found here: Life Victorious in D1 Club National Championship