Sports News
Contact: Scott C. Miller
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March 24, 2007
Men's Rugby: Providence 22 Norwich 19
Providence, RI - The Norwich men traveled to Providence College for its first match of the spring season. They had not been outside since their NRU playoff match with West Point on November 4, 2006. Only six starters from the fall participated on Saturday.
After almost four and half months of dormancy, the Wick scored first on an individual effort by outside center Randy Bielski with a conversion made by Todd Howe gave the Cadets a 5-0 lead. Bielski kicked ahead, chased the ball down, grub kicked the ball on the ground, caught the ball on the bounce in full stride, and dove in for the try.
At the 24th minute, Providence got on the scoreboard. Just before the half, the Friars put another try in and the half ended with Providence leading 12-5.
Excellent quick ball from the forwards in addition to an outstanding backline play resulted in Bielski scoring his second try of the day.
Fatigue began setting in late in the second half. At the 17th minute and the 25th minute Providence score two more tries to lead 22-12.
In the closing minutes, Norwich forwards maintain pressure in Providence’s end from the maul, get the ball out to the backs, and Bielski scores his third try between the posts to make the score to 22-19.
Norwich receives the ball back on the kick-off, maintains possession for three phases to keep their victory hopes alive, but the whistle blows ending the match.
"Considering the lack of outdoor conditioning and practice along with many newcomers to the A-side, the boys represented themselves well," said NU Head Coach Bob Weggler.
Next week Norwich takes on both Coast Guard Academy and Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy at the Coast Guard in round robin action.
