Union County downed the East Cobb Trojans 32-15 Saturday in cold, wet conditions in Georgia.

This was a Mid-South Independent Rugby League (MSIRL) game, and an important one for both. The game was 10-8 in favor of Union County (out of North Carolina), and 15-15 with about 12 minutes to go. But then Union County opened it up for three late tries to put the game away.

For East Cobb, this was an improved showing compared to their 48-0 loss to the Charlotte Tigers in the Trojan's MSIRL opener.

Head Coach Randall Joseph said his players showed toughness, but squandered a chance to take the lead with eight minutes to go - opting to tap quickly on a penalty rather than go for the posts. It was a tough lesson for the East Cobb players.

Patrick Prasinos photos.

"We would have taken the lead and got the ball back, and then we control the match," said Joseph. 

Instead, Union County stopped the quick-tap attack, stole the ball, and ended up scoring to a take a leader they would not relinquish. 

East Cobb had a couple more chances to score, but injuries and lack of time hurt them, and, said Joseph, "we then gave up two tries with poor judgment."

It was close, and then it wasn't at the end, and the final 12 minutes showed Joseph "we are not there yet."

Sophomore Anas Abdullah, playing in his first 15s game, was excellent on defense. Sophomore Joey Britt - also a debutant - played well at lock. East Cobb is missing senior prop and age-grade All American Muhammed Abdullah, and senior fyhalf Evan Cooper.

Patrick Prasinos photos.

For Union County, this was an excellent result.

"It was a very physical game all the way through," said Union County Coach Steve McAreavy. "They went at it, as we did. We're thrilled with the result. We started later than [some other NC teams] and we're happy with where we are."

Inside center Joey Hobbs scored three tries and also distributed well. Harry Robinson led from the front at No. 8 and helped Union County control the ball at crucial moments.