The Yale University Rugby Football Club

YALE 8 - Amherst 32

This weekend the Yale Rugby Club embarked on its return to Division I by traveling to Amherst College. What was hoped to be a celebrated return to DI competition turned to disappointment, as Yale fell to a far fitter and aggressive Amherst club in stifling conditions.

As in Yale's first scrimmage against UCONN, Yale came out with much aggression and passion, maintaining possession and applying plenty of pressure. Unfortunately Yale was unable to capitalize on its early opportunities but did score the first points of the game through a Bobby Cardone '06 penalty halfway through the first half. Amherst came at Yale in spurts, but each time were repelled or held to unsuccessful penalty attempts. After seeing several opportunities evaporate and having one try disallowed, Yale did manage to score a try on the stroke of halftime when outside center Bobby Cardone '06 picked off an Amherst pass and took it the distance. The conversion was unsuccessful, but Yale entered the half with an 8-0 lead.

Unfortunately the 8 first half points would be all for the Elis. The second half showed the difference in fitness levels between DI and D2. In the heat and humidity Yale simply ran out of strength and let the opposition back into the game. A couple early second half tries gave Amherst a 10 - 8 lead, and as the half wore on, Amherst mustered several more unanswered tries bringing the final score to disappointing 32-8.

Despite the poor result Yale took heart in their first half performance and maintains the belief that they belong in Division I. That fitness was clearly lacking has been noted and steps have been taken to ensure a better performance this coming week. In addition, set-piece play was vastly improved as Yale dominated Amherst up front.

In contrast to the A-side, the B-side put on a phenomenal performance, besting Amherst 15 - 7 with tries by scrumhalf Aaron Friedman '08, rookie flanker Senthu Arumugam '09, and rookie wing Nick O'Neill '09. Yale managed to maintain extended periods of pressure and showed the poise to finish off their opportunities. They stuck to the game plan and showed a tremendous amount of heart and tenacity considering the number of green rookies on the field. The game proved exciting from the beginning and showed the increasing skill level and talent of the club as a whole.

This coming weekend Yale hosts the University of New Hampshire and will try to avenge their disappointing start to the season. The game will be played at 1PM on SUNDAY September 25th. As always all fans and alumni are welcome and we appreciate all the support we receive.