After coming out with a strong first half the Eagles let another match slip through their fingers as they drew with Scotland 19-19. The result means they end pool play with two losses and one draw. The match began with Scotland having the bulk of the possession. However, they weren't able to generate anything on offense as the Eagles defense smothered every opportunity.
When the Eagles finally did get the ball they made an immediate impact on the game. Some great defense by Danny Barrett to cause a turnover at the breakdown allowed Carlin Isles to get the ball. He then reversed course a few times, eluded defenders, and then broke through for the first try. Madison Hughes slotted the conversion for a 7-0 lead.
Take the jump to read more.
The Eagles went back on the attack after a well taken restart. Test did well to bat back the ball and then a quick pass found Nick Edwards running a great line. He beat one defender to go in for the try. Just like that the Eagles led 14-0. It was one of the strongest periods of the play the Eagles have had in a long time.
Unfortunately, they weren't able to keep the scoreline 14-0 before the half. Scotland finally worked the ball deep into U.S. territory. Danny Barrett was then put into the bin for kicking the ball away giving Scotland even more of an advantage. They tried take advantage after a restart but Madison Hughes did well to hold up the ball. Still, Scotland stayed persistent and after another restart scored to make it 14-5 at halftime.
The second half belonged to Scotland. They scored a try shortly after halftime when they caught the Eagles napping on defense for an easy try around the corner. With the conversion it was only a two point advantage at 14-12.
The Eagles would increase their lead to seven when Hughes finished off a nice series of passes, but defensively they weren't up to scratch in the half. Andrew Turnbull scored an all too easy try to make the score 19-19 with only a few minutes remaining. Each team had their chances but whittled them away. Scotland had a chance for a final play but elected to kick it out and take the draw as to finish third in the pool.
The U.S. will be very disappointed to come away with only a draw. They did enough to win the match but with a lack of possession they couldn't hold on. Madison Hughes played well but other players on the team were too silent.
The U.S. will play in the Bowl quarterfinals tomorrow.