We set off bright and early for Williamstown, Massachusetts, ready to face the Purple Cows in our second to last league game of the season. The sun was shining, and the lovely fall foliage set the scene for a truly beautiful day for rugby.
We started with a kick off from Williams. Confronting the strength and size of the Williams pack may have seemed to be a daunting task, however we came out hard, dominating rucks and maintaining possession. This consistent possession and good hands from the back line allowed the ball to get out to wing Melanie “Usain Bolt” Haas (‘13), who sprinted down the field for the first try of the game. Although we continued to do a good job getting to the rucks quickly, the Williams’ players often managed to drive with more force, which is how Williams tended to gain their possession throughout the half. Their wing received the ball and proceeded to kick it all the way into their try zone, but luckily scrum half Jess “Midriff” Berry (‘13) made an excellent chase and stopped her from scoring. A great quick ball out from the backs combined with Mel’s impossible speed gained her three more tries before the half ended, and we finished the half up 22 – 0.
In the second half we made an effort to change up our game and work on skills to utilize in upcoming games. Fly-half Julia “Seriously Sharp” Gulka (‘13) had an exceptional game, controlling the pace and creativity in the backline, while consistently bringing down any Williams ball-carriers threatening to break through to our defensive line. By her side was inside center Marissa “Melissa” Shaw (‘14) who had amazing runs and tackles throughout the whole game, and may or may not have glue on her hands. A series of punches got the ball closer to the try line, where hooker Rae “Gotta catch ‘em all” Colombo (‘13) was able to drive it over the try line. Continued hard work from the both backs and forwards got the ball out to Mel, netting her 5th try of the game.
Our last try came from fullback Julianna “Sass” Gardner (‘13) who had incredible game, coming through as a strong strike runner throughout our numerous attacking plays. An offload from outside center Stevie “The Feb” Durocher (‘15.5) put Julianna in the perfect position to sprint the final meters to the try line and score on the outside.
Other shout outs: Lock Hannah “Keepin’ it Kosher” Elkin (‘13) made some great runs in support of the backline, leapt and stole some of the Williams’ line outs, and scored a try which was mysteriously declared not a try. Rae Colombo also almost scored a try in the last second of the game, off a pass from Jess Berry, but was ruled out-of-bounds before placing the ball.
A special thank you to the alums who came and visited this Homecoming Weekend–Evan Pagano (‘12), Logan Gallogly (‘12), Melissa Hayes (‘12), and Krome (‘12)–and all of the parents who made the treck to watch us play–Mr. and Mrs. Berry, Mr. Colombo, Mr. and Mrs. Spfander, and Mr. Hoffman!
First half
Melanie Haas – 5
Melanie Haas – 5
Melanie Haas – 5 (Berry – 2)
Melanie Haas – 5
Second half
Marea Colombo – 5 (Berry – 2)
Melanie Haas – 5
Julianna Gardner – 5