The Pitt State Men’s Gorillahead Rugby Club opened its 2025 season with a hard fought 25-19 win over Oklahoma State on Sept. 6, rallying from an early disadvantage in a nonconference, “friendly” match at the Official Pittsburg State University Rugby Pitch.
The Cowboys struck first, building a 12-0 lead in the opening half on two tries and a successful conversion. Pitt State struggled to find rhythm in the early minutes, slowed by first-game nerves and a lack of possession.
Momentum shifted in the second half. Freshman impact player, Noah Hornback (#21) put Pitt State on the board with the team’s first try, cutting into the lacking score. Freshman fly-half, Nick Starkey (#10) converted the kick to make it 12-7, giving the Gorillas new hope.
Oklahoma State quickly answered with another try and conversion, pushing its lead to 19-7. But Pitt State refused to fold. Frustration turned into motivation as the Gorillas pressed forward with a new fire. Freshman impact player, Desmond Robinson (#19) found space to score a try, narrowing the gap once more. Graduate student wing, Juan Mollo (#15) added a penalty goal soon after, bringing the score to 19-15.
The comeback continued when Sophomore impact player, Rilyn Buessing (#17), powered through for a try, giving the Gorillas their first lead at 20-19. The crowd, sensing a dramatic finish, grew louder with each possession. Robinson then sealed the match with his second try of the day, and third overall, stretching the advantage to 25-19. Pitt State’s defense held firm in the closing minutes, denying the Cowboys any late advances.
Robinson finished as the leading scorer with two tries, accounting for 10 points. Hornback added one try, while Mollo and Starkey combined for two conversions and a field goal.
Senior lock, Jaczin Kelvington (#5) and freshman impact player, William Pattison (#20) delivered standout tackles that stalled Oklahoma State’s momentum.
The match was classified as a “friendly,” meaning it did not count toward playoff standings. Still, it marked an encouraging start for Pitt State, especially against a Division I opponent. Oklahoma State entered the contest with more experience and depth, while a quarter of the Gorillas’ starting lineup consisted of rookies seeing their first action.
The Sir, or referee, also drew recognition for guiding players through the contest. His explanations of calls and rules helped newer athletes and fans better understand the flow of the game.
The victory also marked a turning point for a Pitt State program working to rebound from a difficult 2024 season. Last season, Gorillahead Rugby went 1-6 with only 17 players on the roster. This year, the club has expanded to 25 members, providing much needed depth and flexibility. Saturday’s result was also significant as it stood as the team’s first official match victory in two years.
Pitt State Gorillahead Rugby will look to carry its momentum into the next contest, a road trip to Rolla, Missouri, on Sep. 13, to face Missouri S&T.