CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – After a challenging fall season, the Clarksville Headhunters are back in a big way. The Headhunters started recruiting and training at F45 gym during the off-season and began their first practice of the spring season on January 9th.
Most recently, on Saturday, Feb. 17th, the rugby team hosted their first match of the year at Liberty Park against the Murfreesboro Minotaurs. The Clarksville Headhunters came out on top for a 56-19 win over Murfreesboro.
Directly from the kickoff, Clarksville’s defensive intensity kept Murfreesboro on their heels and prevented them from making any progress until the end of the first half. The Minitours were held scoreless after the first 30 minutes of play, while only scoring 14 points in the first half.
Although the Headhunters took an early lead, the team began to lose momentum during the first half due to their inconsistent defensive play. Clarksville ended up being able to keep the score within two tries prior to the halftime break and came back strong in the second half.
Clarksville Headhunters captain, Jake Erickson, stated after the first half they felt like they were in a good spot but needed to tighten up their defensive shape. “The boys’ were really figuring out our pattern and it showed” – said Headhunters own Sean O’Connor.
Early in the second half, the Headhunters rallied and were able to focus on their original gameplan. They quickly took control of the game again, as they drove down the pitch and were able to secure a solid victory over the visiting Minotaurs.
The Headhunters are now looking forward to their next league match in Knoxville on March 9th and representing Clarksville at both the Nash Bash and Music City 7’s tournaments.
Following the game, the team enjoyed spending time with their opponents and friends in Clarksville at Revel House Pub, a longtime supporter of the Headhunters.
Man of the Match: Luke Ensing