West Hartford moved the ball well all day but strong Midstate rucking and cover defense stymied several of their scoring opportunities. Midstate played a hard and physical match, threatening to score more than one occasion. However, each time the resolute Black Hearts defense held strong and gathered momentum from their goal line stands.

Coach Shawn Brennan was pleased to be back playing rugby after nearly a two-year layoff, noting, “We are definitely still working off the rust, but today we saw glimpse of just how good this team can be.”

Brennan credited his strong senior class leadership for the win. “These guys work hard for each other. I don’t even have to raise my voice in practice to push them because they are always pushing each other to be better.”

The team now has a bye week before traveling to face the Southington Blue Knights on Friday, May 14 at Southington High School.

The West Hartford Black Hearts Rugby Club was established in 2011 and is comprised of high school boys from West Hartford. The team competes against other clubs and varsity teams from around the region.

Players are still being accepted for the spring and summer rugby season. For additional information, please go to www.whrugby.org.

West Hartford charging down kick-off. Courtesy photo

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