KUA Trounces Mount Mansfield in VT

In their first ever match of 10's rugby, KUA was unsure how they would like the extra space, the added running, and the fast pace of the game. As it turns out, KUA was quick to adjust to the changes and immediately felt comfortable with the new surroundings. Jun Woo Cheong was deliberate and decisive running the show from Scrum Half. Lucky for him, the forwards were always ready to take a pop by the breakdown, take the pick and drive on their own, or support him into contact. Philip Kessler, Nick Powers, and Sam Sevy led the pack in the front row on scrums and worked their hearts out to be at each breakdown. When Jun Woo saw space, he was also quick to spread the ball to the back line, which played remarkably well together. The first break aways came from center Sam Isaacs who seemed to find space wherever he ran. He made several breaks on the outside, but also some miraculous streaks through the middle of the MMU wall. Isaacs had a stormer of a game, ending the night with 3 tries of his own, and several assists that were touched down for points under the posts. New to 10's and to rugby, Connor Skehan and Asher Pollack were able to hold their own with a new defensive strategy, running across the field, always looking for work. Connor was the ball carrier on several game-changing runs, often finding space and creating space for his teammates. Connor ended the night with 2 fantastic tries of his own. He also was successful kicking for points after, splitting the uprights on 4 of his 6 attempts to walk away with 18 points on the match. Fly Half Will Robbins-Cole was instrumental in getting the ball out to speed demons Skehan and Isaacs. In the process of getting his back line set and scanning the field for play ideas, Will was able to touch down 2 scores of his own. Cosku Caplan, playing as a forward for the first time, was all over the field making hits and breaking tackles. Cosku and Arthur Hwang played the entire game tirelessly with excellent support lines, proving that they were always there for their teammates. This led to an off-load try to Cosku, his first of the season. As substitutions were made, Navid got to see some action and showcase his speed, Ansar was able to take a ruck and slow down the MMU offense, and Rafa had a chance to show his heart out on the field. All in all, the boys walked away men. They were wet, cold, and hungry, but most of all proud of a fast paced and smooth match that they had choreographed. It was a game full of excitement and fast breaks, but also level heads and good decision making. The Wildcats look forward to their next match on Wednesday, 5/7 at Kearsarge.