In the team’s first game of rugby in two years, the University of Delaware defeated St. Joseph’s 46-34 Saturday in Newark, Del.

The Delaware rugby program was shut down in 2013 following a party tangentially associated with the rugby team that got out of hand. The ban was supposed to be for five years, but thanks to some hard work behind the scenes by players and alumni, the UD administration reduced the suspension to  two years. 

“This was one of the greatest games I have been involved with,” said club president Chris Mattina, who was instrumental in getting Blue Hen Rugby back on the field. “I think the players will never forget this game.”

The Delaware offense came out firing, especially in the second half.

“We’ve been working really hard on our preparation,” said Mattina. “And while I don’t think I was surprised we played so well, I didn’t really know what to expect. Offensively we played really well and once we got our feet under us we exploded.”

Tommy Abram was outstanding at flyhalf, directing the offense with panache, while up front Mike Gorman was a force for the Hens.

Things don’t get much easier for Delaware, know, as they take on Kutztown University next week. Delaware is not playing a conference schedule this year, but will play many teams in the Rugby East with the hopes of joining that conference next year.

For now, it’s just a victory to get on the field. The victory in the game was just a bonus.