March 5, 2005 – A penalty kick from Francois Viljoen closed the gap to 5-3 in the finals for Washington RFC vs the Potomac Athletic Club in a gritty final at the Test of Life Tournament in Atlanta Saturday.

"It was a long way to drive for a cross-town game," said Washington head coach Bernie Hogan. "But it was a good, tough final and a good tournament."

With Philadelphia-Whitemarsh a late pullout, the tournament had seven teams and that left Pool A with only three. Each team then got two games, not three, in pool play. No matter, as PAC defeated Boston 29-3 and Life 25-5 (both scores unconfirmed) to reach the final.

Meanwhile in Pool B Washington had a bit tougher time of it, and were probably the happier for it. They defeated Aspen 20-7, Charlotte 14-7, and St. Louis 14-14.

"It was a tough hitout for us and exactly what we wanted," Hogan said. "You can say what you want about Aspen not being a full-strength side, it's still good to beat Aspen. Charlotte are playing some very good ball at the moment and St. Louis is looking good also."

Hogan characterized the final as somewhat ugly, but that's to be expected in a rivalry match. Eagle fullback Francois Viljoen was a class player all day – Hogan said he has become bigger and stronger without any loss of skill – while flyhalf Jared Tito and USA U19 flanker/lock Alex Dresner was outstanding as well.

"Our pack really stepped up today," Hogan said.