SUPER ROOKIE | Fogerty plays hero for Volcanoes in debut

Rob Fogerty made a lasting impression in his first two games with the Volcanoes.

By Ivan Saldajeno

CALAMBA--In his first two games as a Philippine Volcano, Rob Fogerty proved his worth.

Fogerty scored the go-ahead try on Saturday as the national men's rugby team rallied back in the second half to down Singapore at the start of their two-game Asia Rugby Championship Division 1 series at the Southern Plains Rugby Field.

[Related Story: Volcanoes rally in 2nd half to repulse Singapore]

Then on Tuesday back at the "Eagles' Nest", Fogerty, who became the designated penalty taker following the injury to Danny Matthews, helped spark the Volcanoes' charge, making four penalties and three conversions in a 38-12 blowout to complete the sweep.

[Related Story: Volcanoes blast Singapore, sweep ARC Division 1 series]

Fogerty, whose mother hails from Dasmarinas, outscored the entire Singaporean squad in Game 2.

However, he admitted to reporters that he was not even expecting this kind of baptism of fire.

"I came here not expecting to play much. I know Ricky [Kucia] and Matt (Matthews) are really good players from their teams. I'm still young and learning the game," said Fogerty.

In fact, he also bared that when he came in as a late substitute in Game 1 with his team down, nervousness quickly came to him.

Still, he converted the crucial try as if he was cold-blooded.

"Since I made the first carry to get into the game, I felt really good," Fogerty told about how he quickly shrugged off the first game jitters.

What made his rookie explosion more special was that his heroic performances was seen by his family, who he only saw again after a long time.

"For the first time in 21 years, I met my family... and it's the first time they see me play rugby. It's quite emotional for me," he further said.

In the end, he is so happy that he pulled off a performance to remember for the national team.

"I'm just so happy to be part of this team, and I can't wait for next year. I really enjoyed it," Fogerty concluded.

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