After a long lay-off from a Homecoming match cancellation, the Barons of Franciscan were itching to get back into their groove as they traveled to face Cal U on Sunday morning.  The Barons prevailed with a 33-12 victory in a game that was closer than the score indicated. 

Cal came ready to play and were aggressive in their hitting and running attack.  The Barons seemed to be going through the motions, perhaps it was the lay-off or taking Cal lightly, but whatever the case, FUS were called for almost 15 infractions on the day.  To say it was a sloppy game for them is putting it mildly but yet, they were able to overcome their mistakes and capitalize on Cal's turnovers and swing momentum to their side. 

Franciscan was able to score quickly at the start as has been their M.O. and dotted down a James Reichert try.  The conversion was unsuccessful.  This seemed to have woken up Cal as they went on a keep away type game, controlling the ball and forcing our defense to make  mistakes.  They were able to punch it in and convert the kick for a 7-5 lead, which was the first lead a conference team had against FUS this season.  The lead was short lived however, as Rafe Lewis was able to scamper in for a try with Jake Goduti taking over kicking duties converting his first kick to bring the tally to 12-7.  A few moments later with some incredible off-load passing from David Prezzia to Bucky Barnes into the hands of an attacking Jake Reinstein, a try was scored with the successful conversion making it 19-7 going into the half. 

With many penalties going against the Barons, they were not able to set up their formations or keep their game flow going uninterrupted.  Cal was able to capitalize on another penalty and dotted down their 2nd try of the day, missing the conversion kick to bring the score 19-12.  The Barons settled down after that and did not allow any more points scored and controlled the tempo in the 2nd half, wearing down Cal's defense with impeccable running and off-load passing.  Josh Leatherby finished off the scoring with 2 tries of his own powering through the defensive wall and Goduti converting both kicks to set the score at 33-12. 

The Barons were tested and were able to pass that test despite the infractions and will look to clean up their mistakes this Saturday at home against Allegheny College.  Man of the Match Bucky Barnes seamlessly transitioned to another position due to injury and didn't miss a beat.  His tough running and tackling set the tone for the day and motivated the team to do so as well.  They are 6-0 and currently have home field advantage for the playoffs beginning on Saturday October 26th.