DURHAM, N.H. - The Norwich University men's rugby team came up short against the Wildcats 20-15 in their season opener. Both clubs battled throughout and the outcome was not secure until the final whistle.
UNH scored first at the 13th mark on an unconverted try. Just 12 minutes later Norwich (0-2, 0-1 NECRC) established pressure in their attack tying the score with an unconverted try by center Vincent Falcone.
At the 30th minute UNH scored their second try to take the lead 10-5. The half ended 10-5 UNH.
Five minutes into the second half Norwich scored from a quick tap by senior captain Chad Wasson (Clancy, Mont.) at left of the post. Unfortunately the conversion sailed just wide and the game was tied up for the second time, Norwich 10- UNH 10.
UNH over took the lead 17- 10 seven minutes later at the 52nd minute. Norwich defense held strong. Neither team was able to score until the Cadets fought back and scored a try in the left corner by senior flanker Andrew Guldin. This closed gap to 17-15 with just two minutes remaining. The conversion was short and UNH maintained the lead.
At the kickoff Norwich lost possession after a few phases with the ball. At the final whistle, UNH sealed the victory 20-15, from a penalty kick.
"Our young team gained more valuable experience," said NU head coach Bob Weggler. "We displayed grit to the very end but just made too many mistakes in a close game to get the win. It was good to see the improvement from last week's match against Brown."
The B side lost to UNH 10-5.
The Cadets take on UVM at home next Saturday Sept 21st. Kickoff time is at 1:00 p.m. and the match will be video streamed live on www.nsnsports.net/norwich.
-CADETS-
