Full-throttle tackling, fast running and loud yelling were key ingredients last weekend as the SF State men's rugby club did battle in their first university-affiliated game.

The club suffered a close 31-24 loss at the hands of the University of the Pacific in Stockton, Calif. last Saturday.

The Gators gave up a staggering 110 yards in penalties, which match referee Sam Reagle of the Northern California Rugby Referees Society attributed to the fact that many of the players are new to the team.

"My goal is to not have any penalties," Reagle said post-game.

Rugby club President Chris MacDougall said that the school affiliation let the team set up a table in the quad and recruit this semester, bringing in about 30 new players this season.

Despite penalties, the team played hard and scored the first try of the game.

The Gators ended the first half tied with the Tigers.

MacDougall, along with wing Robin Villeda and backs Evan Stuart and Warren Thompson all scored tries - the equivalent of a touchdown in football - for the Gators. A try is worth five points.

Thompson and back Jamie Gunton each scored conversions for SF State, worth two points apiece. Forward Antonio Garcia and Larry Madrigal led the Gator defense with significant tackles.

SF State men's rugby has a handful of local matches in April and is looking to pick up a few more games, MacDougall said.

The team plays its next match March 7 at Sierra College in Rocklin, Calif.

The women's rugby team plays its first game March 15 against University of San Francisco at a yet to be determind field.

The Gators get another shot at the Tigers when they play them in their first home game on April 4 at a to be announced location.