UNC Alum helps win Men's DII National Championship

by Rick Baker

The Raleigh Vipers won the Men's Club DII National Championship on Sunday in a thrilling game against Red Mountain, 29-27. The Vipers made the long trip to San Diego this weekend and came back National Champions. Aiding in the victory was former UNC rugger and footballer Leon Scroggins, who started both games this weekend, propping on Saturday against Tulsa and flanking on Sunday against Red Mountain. Leon was a stand-out prop for the Tar Heels and also was a fullback on the varsity Football team.

The Championship game was full of thrills, but when the Vipers took an early 19-0 lead it looked like they were prepared to run away with the victory. Leon nearly had a glorious try late in the second half after taking the ball from the front of the line-out and sneaking past the Red Mountain hooker, but the try was called back on a knock-on. The gritty Red Mountain side clawed their way back into the game and eventually took a 27-26 lead with less than five minutes to play. The Vipers took control of the ball off the ensuing kick-off and were driving towards the try line when Red Mountain were called on two consecutive penalties. Frustrating all of those watching, the Vipers declined to go for points and kept trying to hammer the ball over for the try. With time ticking down, Red Mountain were called for their third penalty, setting up the Raleigh Fly-Half for a heroic game winning kick from nearly 40 meters out. Current UNC Coach and former Vipers Coach Andy Richards also commentated both games which were broadcast live through USARugby.org.

UNC wants to congratulate the Vipers on their National Championship and looks forward to a challenging match in the Fall.

Created Jun 11, 2007. 01:45 pm
Modified Jun 24, 2007. 07:04 pm