Sept. 12, 2007

MONTPELLIER, FRANCE - Senior Louis Stanfill and alumnus Mike MacDonald '04 scored tries for the United States National Team in its match against Tonga, a 25-15 loss that took place early this morning at the Rugby World Cup.

MacDonald's try in the corner after halftime, his fifth as an Eagle during his second Rugby World Cup and 44th international appearance, brought the Eagles to within five points at 13-8. His performance was noticed by the International Rugby Board, which named the former Bear the Man of the Match despite his side's losing effort.

Tonga rebuilt their lead to 10 after "Big Mac's" score before Stanfill, playing in his first Rugby World Cup and sixth international, powered into the try zone for his first time as an Eagle at minute 67. A successful conversion following Stanfill's score brought the United States to within three points at 18-15 before Tonga added a final try to seal its victory.

The Pool A match at Stade Mosson in Montpellier, France, which kicked off at 5:00 a.m. PST, will be aired by tape-delay on Setanta Sports and Versus Network (check websites for schedules), both carried by DIRECTV and DISH Network, with Versus also available locally on Comcast. Contact your cable system or satellite operator to confirm coverage in your area.

The United States have two more matches in Pool A play: Samoa Sept. 26 and South Africa Sept. 30.