Sunday, October 11th, 2003
By Lori Herbert

A relentless attack by the Northeastern University Maddogs cracked the shell of the Norwich University Armadillos with a 32-13 win, earning the Maddogs a guaranteed playoff berth in the process. It was a bit of a slow start for Northeastern, despite the perfect day and numerous fans. The battle of the N.U.’s started with Norwich scoring a try and a conversion goal very early in the game. In typical Maddog fashion the Dogs answered with a try. Though the Maddogs seemed to dominate their opponent on the field of battle, the Armadillos managed to sneak in two successful penalty kicks. Just prior to the end of the half, Northeastern came through with a try to end the half, with Norwich leading 13-10.

The second half belonged to the Maddogs, who scored 22 unanswered points. The Dogs came out with a bang, scoring a try. A successful penalty kick, followed by a try and a conversion goal, brought the score up to 25-13. At one point the play was hotly contested, the dust flying up all over the field so much so that it was difficult to see who was who. Ultimately, a player from each team was sent to the Sin Bin. The icing on the Maddogs’ cake came with a blocked kick in the try zone, enabling the Dogs to tack on another try and a conversion goal to finish out the game, Northeastern 32, Norwich 13.

Once again, the Maddogs B side wiped out their opponents, with B-side thrashing Norwich 50-0. The C-side dominated the short 15 minute game, but was unable to score.

All in all, the Armadillos’ kicking game could not stand up to the play of the tenacious Maddogs, who excelled once again in the line-outs, scrums, and kicking. Coach Sean O’ Leary expressed his happiness with the Maddogs’ play, noting that the rucks were “awesome.” “The players are fit, and they are playing rugby together as a team.” He also mentioned that he is pleased with the play of the up and coming B and C sides.