NORTHFIELD, Vt. – The Norwich University men's rugby team earned a 17-0 victory over UMass Lowell Saturday at the Dog River Rugby Pitch, using a dominant defensive performance to secure the shutout.
The Cadets and River Hawks battled through a scoreless opening 30 minutes before Norwich broke through in the 32nd minute. Aedan Kerr (Hillside, N.J.) cracked the line for the first try of the afternoon, giving the Cadets a 5-0 advantage.
Norwich's defense continued to hold strong throughout the remainder of the first half, preserving the lead heading into the break.
The Cadets doubled their advantage in the 60th minute when Eric Forcier (Colchester, Vt.) finished off Norwich's second try of the afternoon. Kerr converted the try to push the Norwich advantage to 12-0.
Just three minutes later, Norwich struck again. Captain Joe Whiteside (Killingworth, Conn.) slipped through for a try following a UMass Lowell penalty, extending the Cadets' lead to 17-0.
Despite several additional opportunities throughout the remainder of the match, Norwich was unable to add to its total. The Cadets' defense, however, continued to stand tall, keeping UMass Lowell off the scoreboard for the full 80 minutes.
"On one of the most beautiful days of the year, at the Dog River Rugby Pitch, I was happy to see the guys get a win and the massive defensive effort was the highlight of the day," Norwich head coach Carrick Pell said. "We also had a few moments of exciting, attacking rugby, but we have to be more intentional with our possession."
The Cadets continue to develop their attacking approach, pushing beyond their comfort zone with a more dynamic style of play.
"We are pushing our boundaries, playing outside of our comfort zone with a more dynamic attack and once we get comfortable with it, things will be more fluid," the head coach added.
Norwich's B-side also earned a victory, coming through with a game-winning try in the final minutes to complete a successful day at the Dog River Rugby Pitch.
The Cadets enter a bye week before returning to action Friday, Oct. 9, when Norwich hosts Coast Guard.
