MIT shutout Mad River to advance to NERFU final

Teams:MIT vs Mad River RFC
Played:04/23/16 @ Stowe, VT
Score: 13 - 0 MIT win

On Saturday, April 23, 2016, MIT traveled to Stowe, Vermont to take on Mad River RFC in the NERFU semi-final playoff match. MIT controlled possession and territory in the first half but were a little too eager with the ball and squandered several scoring opportunities. A forward pass in the backs called back one possible try and some scrambling Mad River defense stopped Hacksaw from another possible try. MIT were able to score first on a penalty kick from 25 year old kicker John G. Just before half, Mick took down the ball in the line-out. Caleb carried the ball and Nick rucked over. Marc spun the ball to James, who weaved through the defense for the game’s only try. The 25 year old converted. MIT went into the half leading 10-0. Coach Sean was unusually chipper in his half-time talk; possibly due to the fresh green mountain air, or perhaps because he was approximately 200 miles away from #bakeryproblems.

The second half saw more solid defense from MIT, led in the forwards by 38 year old second row Alex, and in the backs by outside center Jake. Jake’s crushing tackles even accidentally extended to James and his giant peaches; leading to a brief stoppage in play while James caught some air. The MIT defense continued to pressure Mad River despite Zach leaving the game for a massage appointment (see below) and Martin temporarily leaving for his weekly blood donation (see below). Mad River threatened to score after MIT turned the ball over inside their 22. Mad River kicked the ball down field and were able to recover. MIT rushed back and stopped them from getting over the line. From there Mad River let down their discipline and were frequently penalized by the referee. Eventually this led to another penalty kick for John G. who slotted it home despite a strange flag wave from a Mad River touch judge posing as Alan.

Man of the tub: Nick A.

Next Match: On Saturday, April 30, 2016, MIT travel to the Irish Cultural Center in Canton, MA to take on Old Gold RFC in the NERFU championship. Kickoff is scheduled for 12:30 PM. Fans and players are encouraged to stop by Coach Sean's bakery, Bent's Cookie Factory, in Milton, MA before the game for some treats.