The Yale University Rugby Football Club

YALE 0 - St. Cuthbert's Society 10

On March 23rd, one day before scheduled, Yale hosted St. Cuthbert's Society of Durham University. The threat of an incoming winter storm induced the University to move the game ahead to Wednesday afternoon. Unfortunately the schedule change did not circumvent the storm which began a few minutes into the game, forcing the game to be called 15 minutes into the second half.

In treacherous conditions of gusting wind, rapidly accumulating snow, and bitter cold, Yale held their own in a closely contested match. The first half began with strong phase play by St. Cuthbert's who maintained possession deep within Yale's half. Persistent defense allowed Yale to weather the storm, but conditions prevented Yale flyhalf Rob Smith '06 from clearing effectively when Yale had possession. The first score of the game came about 15 minutes into the game when St. Cuth's number 8 barreled over the line due in large part to poor tackling by Yale.

From the restart Yale settled down, gaining more possession and more territory with each phase. Unfortunately conditions continued to stifle Yale's explosiveness causing a medley of handling errors at inopportune times. Despite playing the latter part of the second half in St. Cuth's territory Yale entered the break down 5-0.

In worsening conditions both sides anticipated an early end to the game. Consequently both games came out firing in the second half. After letting a few scoring opportunities slip from within their grasp Yale found themselves on defense again deep inside their own territory. Desperate to get the try that had eluded them the whole game, Yale started taking greater risks, running the ball from deep within their own territory. Again the weather proved their enemy, causing dropped passes at inopportune moments. Sadly just before the game was called another weak defensive breakdown allowed another St. Cuth's try.

Despite the 10-0 score line, Yale proved their determination and tenacity, failing to give up at any point in the game. Yale's forwards proved they could if not dominate, at least contest each and every set play. Yale's backline showed the defensive rigidity that had served them so well in the fall season, inspiring further confidence for success this coming spring. Considering the conditions, Yale showed a vast improvement from their play on tour and look forward to putting all the positives together in an all out effort against Western Connecticut State this coming weekend.