May 3, 2003

Palo Alto, CA - Defending National Champions, Cal, were defeated by the Air Force Academy by a score of 46-28. Air Force took a 27-7 lead into halftime, which was fueled by a strong defense and lightening quick counter attacks.

Cal fought back in the second half at one point closing the gap to 27-21 before Air Force rallied to close out a well-earned victory.

"Air Force was very good. They were clearly the best team on the day, extremely athletic and very determined. It's important that each year USA Rugby crowns a worthy National Champion, and if they come through the final, Air Force is that worthy champion. I'm disappointed for our lads. They fought gallantly. But if we can't advance to the final, I'm pleased that it's a buttoned-up outfit like Air Force that does," said head coach Jack Clark.

In the other semi-final, Harvard hung on through the final whistle to earn a place in the championship match with a thrilling 27-26 victory. Cal now plays Army in a match for third and fourth place at noon today.

"Meaningless consolation matches played on less than 18 hours restoration are ill-conceived contests, but needless to say, we'll front up and give it a lash," continued Clark.

Scoring: First Half - Air Force try, 1st minute; Eric Andersen try and Matt Sherman conversion, 4th min.; Air Force penalty goal, 15th min.; Air Force try, 23rd min.; Air Force try and conv., 26th min.; Air Force try and conv., 37th min. Second Half - Cameron Bunce try and Sherman conv., 47th min.; Bunce try and Sherman conv., 50th min.; Air Force try, 69th min.; Air Force try and conv., 71st min.; Mike MacDonald try and Sherman conv., 74th min.; Air Force try and conv.