Triton Rugby Falls in Final Seconds of Rhino Bowl

Walking into Sabercats Stadium in Houston, TX for the first time on Friday afternoon, Triton Head Coach, Brent Nelson knew the Rhino Bowl was going to be an incredible experience for his Tritons.

Facing a tough Siena squad, the Tritons would fall behind early, 31-19, before mounting a second half comeback that would give the Tritons a 43-38 lead with less than five minutes to go. Siena would then capitalize on a couple of Triton mistakes and score on the final possession of the match for a dramatic 45-43 victory.

Coach Nelson knew his team would keep battling after falling behind. "Traveling to this bowl game was a tremendous honor for us and a wonderful opportunity to be together doing what we love." said Nelson. "We got behind very early and then let a try in with time expired in the first half. We knew we had the wind in the 2nd half and could mount a comeback. All the credit to Siena for capitalizing in the closing minutes to score the winning try."

Takudzwa Musingwini had a huge match on the national stage as he scored three tries and converted four to lead the Tritons' comeback. Gavin Oleson scored two tries with Connor Price and Johan Goetsch each adding one for the Tritons.

"Taku had an absolute gem of game and showed the country what we've known all along. Big time players show up in big time moments." said Nelson. "He forced Siena to change their entire defensive strategy and kudos to their players and coaches for adjusting."

Following the loss, Coach Nelson reflected on their season. "Thank you to NCR for allowing us to accept the bid and a huge thank you to our administration who continues to show their support." Nelson said. "Personally I want to thank my assistant coaches, Joe Lippert and Quinton Gilligan, for their dedication to these young men. And to the young men, I want to thank them for their sacrifice, grit and effort this fall. They are my family and I am so proud of them."

The Tritons will resume play with their 7's season following winter break.

Scoring –

Tries - Takudzwa Musingwini (3), Gavin Oleson (2), Connor Price (1), Jonah Goetsch (1)

Conversions - Takudzwa Musingwini (4)