Paul Tabernik

   Saturday September 11 marked to opening of UD's Rugby season. The season started with a tough loss to rival Miami University. The game began with a try for UD's Sophomore Winger George Eckard. The try was the first of Eckard's career and gave UD a 5-0 lead. Miami would follow with a score and a converted extra point to take the lead 5-7. UD would come back with a kick for points by senior Matt Cable to retake the lead 8-7. A late try for Miami would put them in the lead going into halftime 8-14.

   The second half exposed UD's lack of conditioning as Miami's backs were able to get the ball out wide and break the game wide open. UD was hampered by injuries to stars Mike Ciccolini (eye), Scrumhalf Chris Fogt (ankle),  and Prop Mike Schlacter (thumb). Going into the final minute Miami lead UD 8-38. As time came to a close UD was able to convert a Miami penalty into 5 points off a superior series of runs by center Andrew Gonzalez, Flanker Eric Gasper, and Prop Josh Maly. The score was finally touched down by Maly as time expired. Matt Cable converted the Kick to bring the final score to Miami 38 UD 15.

    The game showed a lot of promise for the Dayton Flyers. The forward pack was able to control scrums and did a fantastic job cleaning off rucks. The smaller UD backs were able to shutdown Miami in the first half and had some great runs in the second half. UD displayed extreme depth in every positions and as the year rolls on and the players return to game condition they should have a strong season.

    Dayton's next match is home Saturday, September 18th at Carillon Park against OU.