NSRFC vs Wentworth

On Saturday March 23rd 2002 the North Shore Steamers played their first rugby game ever and emerged victorious by a score of 24-0 against a gallant Wentworth Institute of Technology XV. The performance of the North Shore players augurs well for the future -- half of the backline had never played the sport before but took the play to Wentworth and tackled fiercely. The attack came from the center of the pitch rather than from the wings, with Scott Marcoulier, Sammy Benson and Tony Buonaugurio contributing to the effort with dangerous advances into Wentworth's territory.

The forwards imposed their presence and were particularly successful in the line-out, where Tom Schaefer's wingspan (and the support of Tom Moloney, Ken Spinale and Jesse Wilson) dictated the play. In the maul and ruck, although Wentworth's superior organization caused problems, it was the frenzied play of Steve Moloney that struck fear in the opponents (and in our own players as well, to be honest). Throughout, the pack was ably led by the experienced Cam Williams, Ken Spinale and Chris LeBlanc, the latter of whom filled in admirably at hooker after Dan McKenzie had to leave the game.

The first try of the game and the historic first try in the history of the club was scored by none other than Chris LeBlanc, whose name will forever be pronounced with reverence by future generations of Steamers. After yours truly broke a tackle and chipped a kick ahead from twenty meters, Chris charged the line like a bull and outraced the Wentworth fullback to touch the ball down under the right post. Rich De Piero converted the try. North Shore 7-0.

The second try came in the same half when Rob Moran ran the ball deep into Wentworth's 22, drew their defense and passed inside to Scott Marcoulier, who was stopped a meter short of the goal line. Cam Williams was in support, picked up the ball and grounded it. Rich De Piero converted again, and North Shore was up, 14-0.

The third try was scored by Sammy Benson, who broke three tackles in his best imitation of Jonah Lomu's power running (to the chagrin of the Wentworth players).

To close the scoring, Scott Marcoulier did an imitation of Sammy's earlier try by running the ball in from Wentworth's 22.

Congratulations to all who participated. The drink-up was quite fine also, with Bill Brady, Ken Spinale and Cam Williams leading the Steamers in song. "Yogi the Bear" anyone?