Men's Rugby: Norwich Sneaks Past Vermont, 12-10, In Spring Scrimmage
NORTHFIELD, Vt. - The Norwich University men's rugby team hosted Vermont in an early spring scrimmage, and it was the Cadets coming away with a hard-fought 12-10 victory over the visiting Catamounts.
Both squads featured players who were both experienced and new to the game.
Vermont struck first at the 12-minute mark when the Cats scored in the corner of the in-goal. UVM missed the conversion, however, to settle for a 5-0 lead.
Both clubs held strong on defensive for the remainder of the half until the Cadets' backline moved the ball wide to their speedy winger George Rouson. Rouson streaked down the left side of the pitch until he got tripped up 10 meters out.
#8 Drew Poalino stretched out to place the ball for the try to knot the score at 5-5.
It only took Vermont two minutes to get back on the scoreboard as the Catamounts took a 10-5 lead following another missed conversion.
Fifteen minutes later, Norwich's Josh Nowak displayed excellent balance in the tackle and alertly rolls into the in-goal for an athletic try. Norwich prop Antonio Marigliano kicked the conversion for a 12-10 lead.
UVM missed a penalty kick in the closing minutes and Norwich held on for the 12-10 victory.
"Today was a friendly spring match which provided a platform for learning opportunities to both clubs," said Norwich head coach Bob Weggler. "Thanks go to UVM coaches Charlie Bates and Declan Connolly."
Norwich's next spring match is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, at St. Michael's. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m.
