Dams Burst As Toreros Advance to Western Regional Final
With playoffs underway, USD hosted the American River College Beavers to determine the top D1AA club in California.
The Beavers cut an imposing shape as their forward pack outweighed the Toreros at almost every position and their backline has been tough to contain in open play all season long. Yet, from the opening engagement, the USD forwards showed that they were up to the task despite the bone-rattling collisions around the breakdown. This would prove pivotal to the Toreros as it gave flyhalf Lucas Troughear and flanker Cade Caufield the space to lob three first half 50-22s, all of which resulted in Torero tries. Troughear’s boot also slotted a pair of penalties as USD jumped out to a commanding 27-0 lead. ARC, however, showed how they conquered the North as powered over the Torero tryline for their first points of the half. Nevertheless, USD was able to respond before the halftime whistle as prop Cody Going smashed his way forward to close out first half scoring.
Troughear and the Toreros picked up right where they left off as the flyhalf recorded another successful penalty attempt to open the second period while the USD defensive line held up multiple ARC tries. USD responded with a flashy kickpass from Troughear to Chase Basson, who won the aerial contest to secure his second try of the day. Both teams continued to exchange blows but with time winding down, reserve Gavin Saville scored a dagger try, which all but sealed the Beaver’s fate. Not to be outdone, Paul Hebeeb punctuated the match with a dominate effort off the ensuing restart and USD claimed the Cali Cup by a final tally of 68-22.
The Toreros now travel north to face Western Washington University in what is sure to be a spectacular display of collegiate rugby. USD narrowly defeated the Vikings in regional playoffs last year after cutting them down in 2023 as well, so WWU will be looking to even the level the ledger at home on April 19th. Streaming details will be provided on USD Rugby’s Instagram and Facebook accounts, so make sure you’re following to stay up to date on the latest Torero news.
Torres Kapust leads a charge by USD forwards after a penalty.
Chase Basson dots down a try after winning the mid-air engagement with an ARC player.
A leaping try by Paul Habeeb.