Expectations were largely met in the NCR Men’s D2 college playoffs.
A Thriller
Perhaps the most exciting Round of 16 game was Georgetown vs RPI. The Hoyas edged the Engineers 21-20 in a wild one.
“The difference for us was playing to our set pieces and being patient in open play,” said Georgetown Head Coach Craig Rowlings. The team made smart offload decisions and their offensive ruck support was solid. They needed all of that.
“RPI were excellent in open play and tested our defense with a few good breakaways. but we held strong for the most part,” added Rowlings. “Our forwards were the tipping point of the game with remarkable work rate despite injured players staying on the field and gritting it out.”
Michael Suozzi was player of the game at loose forward. This is his first ever season of rugby and he put in a big game when it mattered.
Quinn Zebowski was excellent in the backline while flyhalf Conor Sippel was the field general and led brilliantly.
It was a tough loss for a very good RPI side.
Georgetown will play Norwich, which won in convincing fashion 43-0 over Villanova.
A Surprise
Perhaps the big upset was UNC-Wilmington 25 Vermont 17.
This was a massive team effort from UNCW, said Head Coach Jim Wiseman. “We were able to pressure them well on defense and we were able to take advantage of opportunities when they presented themselves.”
Flyhalf Daniel Marsh was crucial as he put over several key penalty goals and his kicking was a major factor.
“It was a great win for us as Vermont is without question a very quality side,” said Wiseman. “It is obviously they are very well coached and a great group of young men.”
IUP won the other game in this bracket, beating Salisbury 64-0. The Crimson Hawks will take on the Seahawks Sunday.
