ROCHESTER, NY - (Nazathletics.com) The men's rugby team hosted Cornell Big Red in the first 15s match in two years. Nazareth is in its first year in National Collegiate Rugby's Division II, competing in the Liberty Rugby Conference.

HOW IT HAPPENED 
Cornell entered the match ranked #6 in NCR DII. They quickly proved why they are ranked entering this season after a top 8 finish last year. Cornell scored quickly and drove the pace of play all game. After a few tries from Cornell, Nazareth struck back. Freshman Number 8, Cam Driscoll, opened the scoring for Nazareth. He carried the ball into the Try Zone for 5 points off of a maul that Cornell defended by allowing Driscoll some space to operate from 15 meters out.

Ball possession was largely controlled by Cornell all game. The Big Red pushed the pace fast and Nazareth did a decent job making tackles and keeping their defensive shape. Ultimately the speed and heft of the Cornell attack was too much. 

Nazareth showed positive signs throughout the game and earned Cornell's respect, never backing down. Naz freshman Gunnar Tyrell played in his first ever Rugby match in this one. Playing the Flanker position, he came close to leading the Golden Flyers in tackles and scored his first try in the second half. The try (5 points) was converted (2 points) by senior Captain Jacob Hernandez. Minutes later Hernandez scored a try himself for the Golden Flyers. The match ended 65-17 in favor of Cornell.

UP NEXT
The Golden Flyers have a lot to be excited about going forward. They play their next match against Binghamton on Sunday 9/20 at 1pm in Golden Flyer Stadium.