The rugby team traveled to Bangor for its first official match of the season on a gray and rain-soaked day last Saturday. Maine Maritime Academy, a new entrant into the Division II North Conference, was extended a hearty and forceful welcome by the Bowdoin squad in a physical and exciting match.
Despite a first half marred by penalties and bare of tries, Bowdoin emerged triumphant, with a try apiece from senior Dave Friedlander and Derek Castro '09 for a 12-0 victory.
Surprisingly, Friedlander, starting at eight-man, had a tremendous run up the sideline whereas Castro, the fly-half, drove straight up the middle in exciting role reversal.
Captain Luke Flanagan '06 noted, "We won because we stayed disciplined and kept to our game plan, and we were effective offensively because of that. As long as we can keep it up, I think we'll be reeling 'em in for the rest of the season."
The wet conditions of the day made for a chaotic match. Maine Maritime's squad was larger, as expected, but the Polar Bears' skill and training won out in the end.
Coach Rick Scala noted, "They were a team of bruisers and bashers, just like always, but we handled them. I've taken down my share of quarter-tonners in my day, but I was impressed with how everyone one the team was able to execute and make their tackles."
But the ruggers did not finish the game unscathed-the combination of Maritime's style of play and the rainy conditions made for a physical game for everyone, especially the Bowdoin backline.
Senior Evan Gallagher, playing at inside center for the first time in his career, commented, "Center is a rough position, I really got destroyed out there. But it's all worth it at the end of the day when you just get that warm feeling from the win-it's like nothing else."
Also notable was the play of junior flanker Morgan Connelly, known for his unparalleled in-game drive and fire. Connelly always seemed to be making a play somewhere on the field.
"I really just let my spirit carry me through the game," Connelly said.
Bowdoin's B-side was even more impressive than the A-side. Playing against another B-side for the first time, the Bs dominated their opponents with a flashy and speedy backline, as well as a stout and skilled forward pack.
Impressive tries were scored by Charlie Ash '09 and the unstoppable sophomore Jake Murray.
The Bowdoin Men's Rugby Team will venture north to play the University of Maine at Farmington on Saturday.