Harvard Rugby Football Club

Coming off a tough loss against Army, Harvard’s first XV faced off against league rival Dartmouth in a passionate game on the banks of the Charles River. Aware of Dartmouth’s kicking game, Harvard entered the game with fierce emotion built up from last spring’s Ivy League title game.

Dartmouth set the tempo early and utilized strong kicking from fly-half Tommy Brothers ’11 to keep the ball in Harvard territory. Harvard gave up an early try due to Dartmouth’s strong set pieces and fast ball through the backline. Capitalizing on early momentum, Dartmouth slid in for two tries and prevented Harvard’s strike runners from pushing through the line.

Outmatched at the breakdown, Harvard’s back row worked tirelessly to get the Harvard squad back on track. Sophomore standout, Teddy Barron, rallied the Harvard pack and smartly moved down the field, effectively punching holes through Dartmouth forwards. This effort was rewarded with a well-earned penalty kick and surge of passion from the Harvard side.

Heading into the second half, the crimson men fielded a different side. Intensity, speed, and strong leadership from captain scrumhalf Nick Rizzo ’09 helped move Harvard’s backline down the field and prevented big Green from gaining advantage at the scrum. Succumbing to a penalty, fly-half Jonny Miller slotted his second of two penalties on the day.

Dartmouth began to steal away with practiced back line moves, experience, and a demonstration of confidence in their growing lead. A double skip pass out to the elusive and speedy Khaki Burke ’10 deep in Harvard territory proved effective as Burke made 75 meter run along the Dartmouth sideline and dove in for the try. All in all Harvard left the field encouraged by their second half performance but frustrated over the second loss on the season. Next on the circuit: Harvard at Boston College, 09/27/08.