MIT return to winning ways in VT

Having failed to pick up a victory in their previous two outings, MIT traveled to Stowe, VT this weekend to take on Mad River. The game took place on a beautiful fall day with the last of the foliage visible on the mountains that overlooked the playing field.
MIT started well, picking up a try in the opening minutes when some good work up front from second row Rich saw the Mad River defense get sucked in, when the ball was spun wide, prop Jarrad was never going to be stopped from 15 yards out. John G added the extra two. The MIT momentum continued when number 8, Mick O C stole a ball at the lineout 10 yards out and beat a few defenders to touch down on the right wing to leave the score at 12-0.
Mad River were far from out of this game however and were putting immense pressure on the visitors in the tackle and at the breakdown. MIT’s one off runners were picked off time and again leading to turnovers and penalties. The pressure paid off for the home side when their defense resulted in a midfield interception that was run between the posts to leave the score 12-7 at the half.
MIT had some time to regroup at the half time break and readjusted their approach with good result. Hard carrying and defense from front five players Jon S & Martin were rewarded with field position and solid possession. A planned move from a thirty yard scrum was executed perfectly by halfbacks, Ruadhri and John, and impressively finished by on-form winger Jake M. John G added the extras to leave the score 19-7.
MIT had settled in to their stride at this stage and further pressure and good execution led to great field position. Up front flanker Frank and prop Nick were pushing the advantage home while centers John L and Jake S were finding holes that were not present in the first half. These combinations proved too much for the Mad River defense and they were reduced to 14 men for persistent infringements. MIT capitalized on the extra man scoring three tries, two from flanker Frank and a debut score from sub Gus, edging 34-7 in front.
MIT were not finished however and the subs were on the field laying claim for a starting shirt. Second row Chris put some edge into the defense and a great kick chase from winger Brandon gave MIT a chance to increase their lead. An intricate backline move was finished by full back Mike with a barn storming run, beating four defenders to the line. John G added the extras and the final score was MIT 41 Mad River 7.
MIT return to their home field in Cambridge next Saturday to take on Framingham at 1pm.
Man of the Match: Mick O C