The Fordham University men's rugby team played its first of three games on tour in Ireland on Friday.

Touring Ireland thanks to Irish Rugby Tours, with an itinerary that includes three matches, coaching sessions, tickets to a PRO14 game, and cultural trips, Fordham is using the more temperate weather in Ireland to get ready for a busy spring.

The Rams took on Athy RFC, holding on for a tight 19-17 victory. Little surprise it was so close as Irish Rugby Tours is known for being very good at lining up opposition tat fits perfectly with a touring team's level.

Prop Jon Griffonetti got Fordham started with a try. Flyhalf Finlay McCarrick added the conversion for a 7-0 lead. Athy replied with a try, but the Rams kept the power game going—prop Jack "The Gamebreaker" Brennan was over for make it 12-5.

Athy replied again and it was 12-12 at halftime.

In the second half, Fordham regained the lead when center Patrick Stack pushed away two separate tacklers to go in. McCarrick's conversion made it 19-12. Athy scored as the game was closing, but couldn't make the conversion. There was still time, and Athy regained possession, but a key turnover allowed Fordham to kick to touch and end the game.

It was a impressive showing for Fordham, with big performances from captain Charlie White; the No. 8 was a powerful runner all day and made some thundering tackles. Center Raymond Miranda was given the team's "Sheriff" award for laying down the law in tight play.

Next up for Fordham is a game against Galwegians on Tuesday.