The USA Rugby HSAAs improved to 2-0 on their South American tour, beating the Chile U19 team for the second time in a week. The HSAAs produced a commanding performance to beat Chile 41-15 in Santiago in the presence of the U.S. Ambassador, Alejandro Wolff. The U.S. team scored six tries, four conversions and one penalty by ten new starters, showing the depth and ability of the 32-man roster.

Nuu Aiava (Keauka'a Sharks) produced outstanding offense, finishing with two tries, bringing his tally to four on the South American tour. On top, he added a devastating tackle on the Chile fullback early in the first half that set the tone for the Team USA defense. Zach Webber (United, Utah) matched Aiava with another double, however the most valuable back performance came from sophomore flyhalf Ben Cima (Gonzaga College H.S.) "His game management and vision is impressive,” said Salty Thompson, HSAA Head Coach.

Brad Luvender (Katy, Texas) a U17 lock in April, started at 8-man and set the tone in go forward among a group of punishing runners. Solomone Anitema (Maui Rugby) and Inoke Raikadroka (South Bay Youth Rugby Spartans) hurt the Chilean defense with effective power running, propelling the U.S. backs that produced five tries.

A 36-3 U.S. lead at halftime rallied the Chile team to come back to score twelve points in the second half. Michael Reid (Warrenton,Va.) produced the only points for the U.S. with a fifty yard solo run and try. The U.S. won with a final score line of 41-15.

Scoring Summary

First Half

Second Half

Final Score