FALLBROOK – On Dec. 22, the Fallbrook boys varsity rugby team made a strong showing against a powerful and mature Cathedral Catholic team, although ultimately losing the game 33 to 15.

Fallbrook’s starting lineup included eight seniors (including captain Tim Majewski), one junior, and six sophomores.

The Warriors got off to a good start with a penalty kick from Markus Lewis from about 25 yards out. A quick response from Cathedral Catholic put them up 7 to 3.

Landon Benner used his speed and a beautiful pass from Angel Perez to score at the 15:00 minute mark going up 10 to 7.

A lapse in defense gave Cathedral Catholic the lead at the half, 14 to 10. In the second half, Cathedral Catholic never looked back as they upped the pace and used their big players effectively. A heads-up play by sophomore and first time starting scrum half Oscar Ruvalcaba capped the Warriors at 15. Final score was Cathedral Catholic 33, Fallbrook

Warriors 15.

Cathedral Catholic awarded flyhalf Markus Lewis the ‘Man of the Match. Coach Mike Majewski said Lewis deserved the honor.

"His back line leadership and accurate kicking were a big part of our match plan," said Majewski. "We are very excited about this year’s Warriors. Our speed and athleticism are our strong points. The boys will be ready to get back to work and improve upon our recent shortcomings. They are very capable of playing top tier rugby.

Fallbrook’s varsity team now has one win and one loss. They beat Del Norte High School 46 to 15 on December 14.

The JV team lost to Cathedral Catholic, 29 to 12, but shut out Del Norte JV 39 to 0.

The ruggers’ next match is January 5 versus San Pasqual High School. The games will be held at Kit Carson Park in Escondido with the varsity game at 10:30 a.m. and JV at noon.