Harvard Rugby Football Club

Kicking off on a beautiful autumn day at the rival Yale Bulldog rugby pitch, Harvard began the game with a quick offload from Nick Rizzo ’08 to Teddy Barron ’11. The forward pack dominated the opening phases, smashing through holes and effectively securing the ball. Despite Yale players diving over the ruck, center Dan Deighton ’10 helped Harvard stroll down the park with some fine kicking.

Just before the end of the first half, Yale flyhalf managed to slot a spectacular drop kick from the 35-meter line. Harvard, however, perhaps frustrated by this showy kicking display, finally decided to appear in proper form. Dominating both the lineout and the scrum, the Harvard ruggers touched down for a try to take the lead at the end of the half.

The second half yielded a much different Crimson XV. Striking with speed and slicing through the Yale defensive line, Harvard broke away from the Bulldogs. With strong line-out recovery from Melousi Dlamini ’10, the Harvard pack drove the Crimson forward. Determined to complete the match and secure the ‘W,’ winger Jonathan Kola ’12 danced his way into the red zone, evading five Yale backs before securing the ball for a try.

Senior captain Nick Rizzo earned ‘Man of the Match’ for his outstanding leadership, defense, and try scoring ability. Congratulations Nick!

Harvard left New Haven, CT with momentum and an invigorated hunger for victory. Next on the circuit: Harvard at Boston College, 10/21/08.