The Renegades took the field last Saturday versus Boston in the first round of the Atlantic North playoffs. Having played Boston in previous seasons, the Renegades expected a tough and physical match. However, the Monmouth sideline showed up strong and helped cheer Monmouth on to an early lead. The women played great team rugby getting multiple phases from the forwards as well as getting the ball through the back line. Kate and Florida had notable runs in the first half that helped put Monmouth on the board early. At the end of the first half, the score stood at Monmouth 21 – Boston 5.
Although the heat was affecting both sides, Boston surged in the beginning of the second half. They took advantage of Monmouth’s mistakes and scored a few breakaway tries. The Renegades managed to keep the pressure on and were rewarded when the forwards hit Boston with a few hard phases ending with (Liz) Hussey crashing one over the line. As time rolled on late in the second half, Boston scored their fourth try of the game, putting the score at Monmouth 28 – Boston 26. They kept pressure on the Renegades, but the ladies didn’t falter. With one minute left, the girls marched down the field and Nicole scored off of a forwards penalty play securing their playoff win and keeping their undefeated record intact.
The women came out of the weekend as the #1 Empire team and will continue their playoff run in Albany against Beantown. If you happened to be in the area, the match kicks off at 4pm at Dick Green Field (50 Frisbie Ave, Albany, NY 12209).
Final Score
Monmouth 33 – Boston 26
Tries: Kate “Florida” Benedit (2), Kate Kelly, Elizabeth Hussey (Russoniello), Nicole Carroll
Conversions: Kelly “Stitch” Rafferty (4)