Game Reports

March 12, 2005 - Cal Maritime 17 v Humboldt State 26
After going down 19-0 by half time, Cal Maritime fought back strongly in the
second half, albeit against a fourteen man Humboldt side. The discipline and
control was evident, but Cal Maritime didn't quite have enough time to dig out of the
first half hole. Cal Maritime thus ended it's best ever season with a record of 5-
2. We now await the results of the remaining games for the other sides to see
if we have clinched a play-off spot.

Referee Report (www.pelicanrefs.com)
Referee: Giles Wilson
1.30pm at Cal Maritime, breeze blowing down the hill on a field in decent
condition but showing a bit of wear.

CMA won the toss and elected to play up the hill and into the wind, preferring
these advantages for the 2nd half. As it was the wind and slope were worth
about 15 - 20 points with HSU taking the first half by 19 - 0 and CMA the
second by 17 - 7. CMA also scored 3 tries to 2 but couldn't match the boot of
HSU flyhalf Ben Green who struck for two very nice drop goals and 2 penalty
goals in the first half.

In the first half HSU applied plenty of pressure which they turned into points
with the 2 penalties and 2 drop goals; both came from nice setups and from
decent range (the second while waiting for a penalty advantage to occur). HSU
looked the stronger team with well organized backs who ran hard and direct,
CMA were under a lot of pressure. HSU's captain played well but chose to
challenge just about every decision which didn't sit well and also had his team
a little unsettled as they followed his lead.

In the 29th minute the HSU full back, Mike Nattkemper, was sent off for
reckless us of the boot to the head at a ruck.

CMA capitalized on this shortage initially but were rebuffed and in the 36th
minute HSU scored a good try which was converted. The half ended with the
HSU captain being reminded (lectured?) that he may ask what decision was
made but that the ongoing dissent wouldn't be tolerated.

To his and the team's credit, HSU completely turned the attitude around for the
second half. Playing up the hill, against the wind and a man short they rarely
missed a beat. The half was very even, compared to the HSU domination of the
first half, but CMA could only score 3 times with two tries and a goal to HSU's
second goal.

HSU put up several hard hitting defensive stands as well as making a couple
of breakouts. Overall the 2nd half was much more enjoyable and the players
seemed to have a better time working in a more positive direction.

Seconds: MARITIME ACADEMY 22 – Humboldt State 17
Ref: Wilson
Both these sides had extra players who wanted some time so 10-a-side with
20 minute halves were agreed. CMA had slightly more fresh bodies and ran
out 22 - 17 winners.