WORLD CUP QUALIFIER: USA 27 URUGUAY 22!

Google Kevin Swiryn and you'll know he is a massive Corner fan - as he scores against Uruguay!

MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay - The U.S. Men's National Rugby Team held off a late comeback by Uruguay on Saturday in Montevideo to win 27-22 in the first match of their two-game series to qualify for the Rugby World Cup in 2011.

“We are happy to win,” Head Coach Eddie O’Sullivan said following the match. “But, honestly a bit disappointed that we gave up so many points in the last quarter. We would have liked to walk away with a larger point spread, but in the end are happy to take away the victory.”

The U.S. got an early lead on the Teros after first-half tries from Tim Usasz and Kevin Swiryn. A successful penalty kick near the end of the half by Mike Hercus gave the U.S. a 13-3 lead at break.

Although the Eagles kept up the pressure and scored two converted tries after the break by centers Junior Sifa and Alipate Tuilevuka, penalties started to hurt the U.S. Team in the second half and Jeronimo Etchverry's outstanding boot started to bring the Teros back to life.

In front of approximately 2,000 fans, Uruguay maintained a strong scrum and maul, surging ahead in the last 15 minutes to come back in the final moments of the game. Thanks to Etchverry’s three penalties and converted try at the end of the match, Uruguay made it a nailbiter and brought the score to within a try, 27-22.
The USA and Uruguay now move on to Florida for the home leg of the two-game series, with the USA on a slim five-point advantage.

- Source: USARugby.Org