Usasz in USA Victory
Jul
Nottingham Rugby scrum half Tim Usasz is one step closer to the Rugby World Cup after a 12-6 win over Canada on Saturday.
The Eagles took on Canada in the first of a two-game series to decide who will occupy the Americas One slot in the 2011 tournament.
Usasz has been involved in the USA squad since the beginning of the summer, playing a part in each of their Churchill Cup games.
He said: “It was great to get a win against Canada. We were playing in 34 degree heat so it was pretty tough but I enjoyed it.
“We’re going up to Edmonton in Canada for the second game on Saturday, which will be a difficult game, but we’re going in with that advantage.”
USA fly half Mike Hercus slotted a first half penalty and a drop goal while Bedford Blues’ James Pritchard kept the Canadians in touch with two successful penalties.
Pritchard missed an opportunity to bring his side level after 74 minutes, while a 77th minute penalty allowed the Eagles to finish 6 points ahead.
Usasz said: “It was good to get a game against a couple of the lads we play against in the league.
“Pirates scrum half Ed Fairhurst was my opposite number and it’s always good to go out there and get stuck in against someone like that.
“I’m looking forward to next week’s game at their place, and hopefully I’ll be involved again.”
