South Panthers Topple Bermuda

This past weekend, the USA South Panthers hosted Bermuda in a World Cup Qualifier warm up match. Hosted by Atlanta Old White, the Panthers put in a balanced effort as they dispatched their visitors 38-5. Former University of Florida flyhalf Lucas Biastrocchi, who now plays for Boston in the American Rugby Premiership, led the attach with 13 points on a try and four conversions. Hit hard by injuries and retirement the Bermuda traveled with an inexperienced squad that was looking to break in a number of new players with the future in mind.

The Panthers got on the scoreboard first when wing Nathan Ring crossed over in the 11th minute to give South a lead that they never relinquished. Fullback Zach Miller backed that try up a few minutes later. Biastriocchi converted one of the two opening tries for an early 12-0 lead for the Panthers. Bermuda got their first and only score of the match in the 27th minute on a driving maul off of a lineout deep in Panther territory. USA South struck back just before halftime with wing Jamie Gasparella using his speed to score. Biastriocchi added the conversion and the Panthers took a 19-5 lead into halftime.

USA South tuned up the pressure in the second half of the match and it produced multiple scoring opportunities for the Panthers. One minute into the second half outside center Mikey Sanders touched down to push the South lead to 24-5. Biastriocchi added a try in the 53rd minute in which he converted as the Panthers took control of the match. Hooker Thomas Van Petton added one last try for the Panthers as the clock ran down. Another conversion from Biastriocchi gave the Panthers a definitive 38-5 win over Bermuda.

USA South returns to action on June 4th as they host the Cayman Islands in Florida. Bermuda travels to play Mexico on May 21st in their 2019 Rugby World Cup Qualifier.