Men's Rugby

Norwich men traveled to Lenoxville, Quebec to take on Bishop University for its first scrimmage as a varsity team.

1st Varsity- 30 minutes

Bishop scored early on a penalty kick, and added to its lead at the nine minute mark with a converted try to bring the score to 8-0.

The Norwich defense held strong and flyhalf Matt Burke intercepted a pass inside Bishop's half way line and dashed in for the try at the 24 minute mark. Burke added two more with a conversion to bring the score to 8-7.

Bishop scored its second try with three minutes remaining following some pressure kicking and excellent rucking. The stanza ends with Bishop holding a 13-7 lead.

Mix of 1st Varsity and 2nd Varsity- 30 Minutes

Bishop scored first on a penalty kick in the 13th minute. At the 17th minute of play, #8 Brad Panasiti scored from a pick at Norwich's five-meter scrum. Sophomore Dominic Cloutier converted to put Norwich in the lead, 7-3. Bishop scored a converted try in the 23rd minute to end the scoring with Bishop winning the session, 10-7.

Mix of 2nd Varsity and Development Squad- 30 minutes

In this session, many players new to rugby got their first experience on the pitch. Norwich spent most of their time on defense or counter-attacking in its own end. The Cadets fought hard to the end, until Bishop scored off a five-meter scrum at the final play to end the session with a 5-0 edge.

"There were many learning opportunities presented at this scrimmage," said Norwich head coach Bob Weggler. "Many players got their first experience and displayed fine skill development."

Norwich continues its preseason slate on Thursday, Sept. 4, when the Cadets host Middlebury. Game time is set for 4 p.m.