After having to work their way through close games, Life University was finally able to shake off an opponent, winning their DIA semifinal over Lindenwood 43-14.

“I’m very happy with the performance,” said Head Coach Tui Osborne. “It was a physical game. It was good to see them play hard.”

Baytops, above, Maricelli, below, and McIlroy, kicking, are just three players who had a big influence on Saturday's win for Life. Images by DoctorHawkPhoto used with permission.

And stay in control. When Lindenwood scored two quick tries to make it 26-14, Life was still ahead by two scores, but needed to re-establish control.

Camped out in the Lindenwood 22, they got a penalty, and wisely opted for a kick for three points - Blane McIlroy was successful and put his side up 15.

“In the second half we gave up tries because of a lack of concentration in our offensive line,” said Osborne. “The guys owned up to it and found a solution. When we went for points, that was [captain] Jake Anderson’s call. He was composed and overruled all the people calling for him to tap it and run. That was a smart play.”

A smart play also was to put Glen Maricelli in the starting lineup. Maricelli got the team going with a massive run from the kickoff, and he scored two tries. Meanwhile, wing Tyrus Baytops was a revelation, making some brilliant offloads as well as exploding through the line while running.

“Glen got us going,” said Osborne. “His work rate, his physicality … it was contagious. Baytops has some great feet, and he stepped off the sidelines, which is something we’ve wanted him to do.”

And more than all of that, fans have started to see a bit more sleight of hand and a little more dash in the backline. That surely is a result of former 7s Eagle Osborne’s influence, but he points elsewhere.

“Yes the backline play is improving, but a lot of things are improving and it’s not just me,” said Osborne. “Shaun Davies is doing a great job as the backs coach. Dave Gannon has been great with the forwards and Dylan Fawsitt with the scrums. And of course Scott Lawrence has done a great job as defensive coach. It’s a team effort.”

We noticed.