(Calvin Harrell photo)
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LSU beat Colorado State 18-14 in the early semi, while Air Force got by Wyoming 35-29 in the second semi.
The Tigers built an 18-0 lead over the Rams, but then had a player sin-binned and CSU scored two tries within the space of five minutes to get back in the game.
The first try came from an intercept by outside center Mikey Garrity and the second from a charged down kick by flyhalf Mike Staab that was touched down by Cole Hanson.
LSU subsequently had several break-aways that they could have scored on but didn’t and that kept the final score close.
“They played very well, they’re a very good team,” LSU head coach Scott McLean told ARN. “We pretty much dominated the first half and then we held them.”
It wasn't the ending that had been envisaged by CSU's fifth year seniors flanker Nick Anderson, hooker Danny Bolling, eightman Logan Collins, and prop Dan Wonstolen.
“The loss was particularly frustrating for the coaching staff and graduating players as this was the fourth time in five years that CSU has qualified for the playoffs but lost in the match to qualify for the national sweet sixteen,” said Colorado State head coach Blake Stevens.
In the second match the Zoomies led 13-7 at the half after building 13-0 lead.
“I felt we were pretty comfortable for the majority of the match but they got a late try at the end of both halves to stay in touch,” said Air Force head coach Andy McQuade.
Standouts for Air Force included second row Mike McDonald, flanker Anthony Pavlisko, and scrumhalf Richie Amisone.
LSU and Air Force are due to meet in the Western championship final at 5pm (MT) provided a big wintry storm system doesn’t roll in as forecast.
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ARN’s coverage of the 2009 men’s college playoffs is proudly presented by Down Under Rugby.
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