MIT capture the 2011 NERFU cup!

MIT’s Spring season reached its climax last weekend as the team traveled to the picturesque setting of Newport RI with one goal in mind, winning the NERFU cup. The draw had pitted MIT with the toughest of challenges as the third and first seeds in Division III were placed in their path to the cup.

MIT 29 Springfield 10

MIT faced Springfield, the Division III third seeds in the morning’s semi final. Having just emerged victorious against physical Springfield side in the fall season, MIT knew a tough battle lay ahead. The game began at a furious pace and Springfield were earliest to settle exerting serious pressure on the MIT line. However MIT soon fought their way back into the game and picked up an opening try following a rampaging run from flanker Frank. The lead was extended soon after with a penalty kick while Springfield responded with a kick of their own.

Shortly before half time an extended period of pressure from the forwards was converted into seven points as some neat hands in midfield opened a gap for a long range try.

MIT were rocked shortly after half time when the referee awarded a penalty try to the Springfield men for an offence at scrum time. Their cause was further impeded as the ref saw fit to send our tighthead prop to the sin bin for the offence. MIT however showed great character to overcome the adversery and kicked on to take two further tries and extinguish the Springfield challenge. The final score was MIT 29 Springfield 10.

MIT 34 Saratoga 0

Saratoga had pipped MIT to the Fall league title with a narrow defeat in October and this fact was on the minds of all the MIT squad heading into the NERFU final. Having easily disposed of Monadnock in the semi final Saratoga were well rested for the evening kick off.

The game began in a typical fashion for both sides with some very physical exchanges and a vicious contest for every ball. MIT had the advantage of the breeze in the first half and capitalized on it extremely well by pressurizing the kickers and not allowing Saratoga to clear their lines effectively. While the backline tackled with aggression, the forwards were dominating the close exchanges and the frustration levels were rising in the Saratoga side. The pressure finally paid off as a turnover ball was shipped quickly across the backline allowing for an excellent score on the left wing.

The trick was completed shortly after with an almost identical score. MIT’s pressure game and the performance of some seriously motivated players was paying off handsomely. A third try in the left corner soon followed but was followed by a serious looking injury to one of the Saratoga side which caused the game to be stopped to allow for medical attention. Subsequent reports revealed the player has recovered fully.

While there was a danger that the break in play may have arrested the MIT momentum, the dogged determination of the side ensured this was not to be as MIT picked up it’s fourth try just before the half time whistle.

The second half continued in a similar vein although MIT’s territorial domination was hampered by the breeze. The team adapted well and reverted to a carrying game which yielded significant yards. Despite some running repairs needed to the team, MIT persevered and secured the winning try deep into the second half. The NERFU cup was in sight.

The final whistle heralded scenes of jubilation as players, coaches and supporters alike celebrated an historic MIT victory. The celebrations began pitch side and carried on long into the night. The win was a testament to the hard work of the coaching team and of all 31 players who traveled to Newport and gave their all. MIT would like to thank all their supporters and sponsors for their support. Without this support the win would not have been possible.