Men's Rugby Shows Growth in Battle at West Point

WEST POINT, N.Y. - The Lander University men's rugby team fell 59-7 to Army–West Point on Friday night in a road test against one of the nation's most established programs.

The Black Knights, a perennial power with more than 50 years of tradition, showcased their trademark physicality and depth in the win.

Despite the final margin, the Bearcats kept pace for much of the match. West Point broke the game open in short stretches with back-to-back scores.

"This was much improvement from our last match with Clemson," head coach Buck Billings said. "I still believe this team has a high ceiling."

Job Madi provided Lander's lone try, while Chase Langston added the conversion. Jacob Gregory delivered a strong all-around performance on both sides of the ball. Joaquin Villegas was named Bearcat of the Match for his consistent impact and leadership.

The trip was more than just a match. The Bearcats visited the Rocky statue in Philadelphia, toured the West Point campus, and explored Washington, D.C., landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.

"It was a great trip with lots of growth on the pitch and life experiences off the pitch," Billings said. "While the men will hopefully forget the score, I'm optimistic this will be a trip they remember positively for many years to come."

Lander now shifts focus to Southern Conference play, hosting Appalachian State at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27 at New Res Field.

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Players Mentioned

Joaquin Villegas: Freshman

Jacob Gregory: Junior

Job Madi: Graduate Student

Chase Langston: Freshman

Players Mentioned

Joaquin Villegas
: Freshman

Jacob Gregory
: Junior

Job Madi
: Graduate Student

Chase Langston
: Freshman