Baron's Boot Boosts Seminoles Past Black Knights

It had been nearly three years since Florida State had defeated two time national champions UCF, however, that mark stands no more. Behind an excellent kicking performance by fullback Frazer Baron, which included a perfect tally on penalty kicks, the Seminoles were able to edge out the Black Knights 19-18. 

The match began with what has proven to be typical Florida State play. Constant pressure through forward play and possession retention led to FSU drawing a penalty within UCF territory. Frazer Baron slotted his first penalty from 25 meters. The first half proved to be a brutal contest, with both sides unable to break the gain line. Florida State continued to utilize strong running from captain Jordan Lupton, Chase Kelley, and Anthony Soto to gain ground in UCF territory. The Noles were able to draw two more penalties that were then converted by Baron at 36 and 35 meters to put the team up 9-3.

The last ten minutes of the half saw both teams find the try zone. Crisp back play, a staple of Florida State rugby had Peter Kim scoring his third try of the semester. The Knights found the try zone as well, however, the conversion attempt was no good. The half time score stood at 16-8.

The second half proved to not be in favor of the Noles. Constant offsides penalties had UCF gaining more meters on the whistle than with ball in hand. In total, the Seminoles committed 22 penalties, leading to two UCF tries. Fortunately all conversions were missed, and the score held at 19-18 in favor of FSU. Although the Noles defense proved stout, there were three times that the Knights broke the line and had a strong runner heading for the try zone. Each time he was met by none other than Frazer Baron who quickly and effectively tackled the ball carrier and preserving the lead. A knock on as time expired sealed UCF's fate and the Seminoles proved victorious. 

The Seminoles are now 3-0 and atop the SIRC South division with 15 competition points. Florida State is heading down to south Florida to play reigning SIRC champions FIU. Details of the match will be released via the Facebook page. 

 

Tries:

Peter Kim

Conversions:

Frazer Baron 1/1

Penalties:

Frazer Baron 4/4