Junior Jack Gab is off and running on his way to score a try for the Blue Jays.

In front of a large crowd of family, friends, and fellow Blue Jays, the Jesuit rugby team took down the Shreveport Sharks, 31-14, at the Marconi Field on Saturday, April 9. Though the Jays were missing some key starters, their depth and talent still proved too much for their worthy opponent.

The Sharks came out inspired and took advantage of poor ball handling by the Blue Jays to drive deep into Blue Jay territory early in the match. In response the Blue Jay defense stiffened to shift the field in their favor. With the ball deep in Shark territory, the Jays secured a turnover. A big push from several teammates helped senior Nick Fresneda push his way over the goal for a score. Senior Scott Derbes’ kick was good and the Jays led 7-0.

Senior Josh West and junior Jack Gab teamed up for the next Blue Jay score. West blocked a Shreveport punt attempt, allowing Gab to capitalize. Gab broke a tackle, eluded another Shark defender, and raced 60 yards for a score. The conversion was no good and the score stood, 12-0.

Shreveport was able to intercept an errant Jesuit pitch and race 70 yards for a score. A Shreveport conversion brought the score to 12-7, Jesuit. The Blue Jays countered that score when Nick Fresneda alertly picked up a loose ball from a ruck and raced untouched for a score. Derbes’ kick was good and the Jays led at the half.

Jesuit opened the second half with strong play-execution and crisp passing. Junior Ian Fogarty received a pass deep in Shark territory, and was able to fight through Shark defenders and score a try. Shreveport answered that score with one of their own, bringing the score to 24-14, with Jesuit still in the lead.

Senior William Waguespack and the Blue Jays put the match away when Waguespack fought his way through several defenders deep in Shark territory for a clinching try. Derbes’ made conversion brought the final score to 31-14, Jesuit.

The Blue Jay rugby team closes out regular season next Saturday, April 16 at 2 p.m. at Marconi Field when they take on the Uptown Barbarians, a team comprised of Lake Area and Holy Cross high schools.