Furman University opened its season with an impressive 47-22 victory over Virginia Military Institute Saturday in Lexington, Va.

This was a non-conference game between two of the stronger DII men’s college teams in Virginia. Furman ended the 2014-15 season ranked #7 by Goff Rugby Report, and VMI was ranked #12.

The consisted of three 30-minute periods, with both programs using the third period to blood some new players. The first half was very competitive with Furman holding a 18-15 lead. The Paladins committed too many penalties and knock-ons in the first period, but after they worked out the first-game kinks Furman won the next two periods comfortably, outscoring VMI 25-7 in the second period.

Freshmen Jeffrey Rein (Nashville), Austin Willis (Atlanta), Thomas Trankle (South Africa), and John Williams (Nashville) had exceptional games. Willis and Williams scored two tries each.

“Our defense was suspect at times and VMI counter rucked well, but we improved as the game progressed,” said Furman Coach John Roberts. “Our new players really emerged.”

This year, Furman players reported to school early. So, the Paladins had nine practices under their belt before the first game.

“The preparation really helped us,” said Roberts. “We are much further along now than we were this time last year.”