Maddogs Put Minutemen Away Early
Monday September 26, 2005
By Ross Shepard
Northeastern traveled to UMass Amherst Saturday, searching for redemption after last week's tough loss at the hands of Dartmouth College. The Dogs proved their hunger for victory, prevailing 38-17.
The Maddogs sent a message to the UMass ruggers in the opening minutes, controlling nearly every scrum. The ball remained deep in the Minutemen's territory for most of the first half.
Consistency reigned throughout the side as Northeastern's back line moved the ball well, managing to score between the posts to set up for easy conversions. The kicking game remained a high point as the Maddogs also kicked for points on a few occasions.
The forwards were unstoppable as a unit, owning rucks and moving the UMass pack backwards time after time.
The first half ended with the Dogs on top 24-3 and in control of the match.
Midway through the second half, the Maddogs began to get comfortable and UMass capitalized by putting some points on the board. The Dogs snapped out of it and regained control, containing the Minutemen attack by forcing their backs to keep the ball inside.
Just as they'd set the tone for the day, the Northeastern pack closed the gate, powering the ball towards the try zone for one last score in the final minutes.
This Saturday October 1, the Maddogs will face Boston College at Parsons Field. Kickoff for the B side game will be at 5:00 p.m., and the A side match will begin at 7:00 p.m.