Baron Rugby Starts the year off right

Baron Rugby Starts the year off right

FAIRMONT, WV- The Franciscan University of Steubenville Barons Rugby team took to the pitch on Saturday; it was with high hopes, and gritty determination that gave them the 41-13 victory. They faced the Division III national champions Fairmount State Falcons, one of the hardest hitting teams in the area.

The Falcons struck hard and struck early by receiving the opening kick off, and within the first five minutes scored a try. The winds affected both teams, and only 3 kicks total went through the uprights, which meant that in order to score, rucking, tackling, and hard hitting were a necessity. The Falcons had size on their side, but the Barons played with their characteristic dignity and passion. The Barons fought back in the first half with tries from sophomore Marc Johnston, and senior Patrick Salibi. The Falcons had a penalty kick, and led at half time 13-10.

Both teams came out with renewed intensity, and Fairmont controlled the rucks for the first 7 minutes. However, the Barons fought back, and their superior training and conditioning resulted in a succession of tries in the last 25 minutes. Mike Storelli, Paul lewis, Bobby Morris, and Tony Gayed all had tries. Coach Mark Hanrahan commented after the game, "It was an overall a great team effort. I was very impressed with the guys [and] the rookies were extremely impressive, especially with this being their first game."

The Barons now start their season 1-0. Their next game is 1 p.m. at home against Washington and Jefferson this Saturday.