Pigs fall to Banshees in close contest, 29-28. Match Report

The St. Paul Jazz Pigs took to the field for the first match of the 2013 Division 2 Fall Season against their crosstown rivals, the Eastside Banshees. Looking to get a big win to start the season, the Pigs played with a level on intensity and cool-headedness that clearly caught their opponents off guard. Heading in to the second half the Pigs were leading 21-19 after a brilliant interception and score by Grant “Bean-Dip” Bassamore. However, the Banshees quickly struck back with two quick trys putting them up 29-21. The Pigs gathered themselves to mount another successful scoring drive to come within one point. For the remainder of the nail-biting match the Pigs flirted with victory; striking deep into Banshee territory, but losing the ball to turnovers and penalties. In the end, the Banshees remained on top with a final score of 29-28.

Man of the match: Stephan “Animal” GrandPre
Big Hitter: Travis “Douche” Spencer

The St. Paul Bombers (D4 side) also took to the field for a couple games in the annual Jesse James Tournament. A good blend of young raw talent and seasoned old boys combined for some exciting rugby. While the Bombers did not win either match, it was still encouraging to see the enthusiasm with which the participants played, and it definitely showed the beginnings of what could be a very promising season.

Man of the matches: Grant “HGSM” Dietrich
Big Hitter: Darryl Sanders

Pigs came out victorious in both games, Saturday 5/11. Match Report

It was a blustery Saturday as the Pigs took the field against the Sioux Falls Crow, looking to score a victory after losing in Sioux Falls approximately one year ago. The harsh gusts played havoc with the kicking game and long passes for both sides, but if there is one area this Pigs team is improving in (however slowly) it is the ability to react, adapt, and overcome. The Pigs grabbed a lead in the first half, and despite a bit of back of forth scoring continued to maintain that lead into the second half where they really let loose and effectively demoralized the opposition. The big boys in the pack were merciless as they continued to pound hard in the scrums and rucks. The back line, lead by none other than the former Sioux Falls player Grant “Bean Dip” Bassamore, capitalized on the opportunities created by their stalwart teammates to move the ball deep into the opponent’s territory to set up more scoring drives. There was great rugby displayed by all the Pigs on the field that truly exhibited the ability to maintain an emotional calm while playing a high level of aggressive rugby. Final score: 33-17, Pigs.
Man of the Match: Grant Bassamore
Big Hitter: Andy Valek

Shortly after the first game, the Pigs took the field again with only a few substitutions against the young North Metro Wolves. This young team proved to have a bit of fire in them, as they came out with hard hits and aggressive running. However, the Pigs pulled themselves together and beat them at their own game while maintaining discipline across the field. Final score: 24-5, Pigs.