Norwich University overcame a slow start to beat University of Vermont and move to 3-0 in the New England CRC Men's DII Conference.

The Cadets arrived in Burlington somewhat flat and UVM scored a try in the first three minutes. Seven minutes later Norwich bounced back and to took a 7-5 lead with a try by freshman prop Keyon McCloud Holman and Keegan Frick conversion.

UVM played solid aggressive rugby and scored back to back tries at the 28th and 38th minute, the second one converted. Throughout the half Norwich played inconsistent rugby that lacked continuity and were responsible for numerous unforced errors. The half closed with UVM up 17-7.

The Cadets turned their game around and scored 17 unanswered points to take the lead at the 64th minute. Keegan Frick kicked a penalty kick 2 minutes into the second half, scrumhalf Tom St.  Pierre’s converted a try at the 57th minute, and Keegan Frick’s converted try at 64th minute gave Norwich the lead once again, 24-17.

Norwich had opportunities to extend their lead deep into UVM’s territory but a sequence of penalties allowed UVM back in the game. Norwich received a yellow card for multiple infringements and UVM took advantage of being a man up and scored in the corner, Norwich 24, UVM 22. Vermont slotted the touchline conversion against the wind, and tied the game at 24-24 with just over a minute left. 

Norwich kicked deep on the restart to pin UVM deep, and right from the kick Vermont was called for a penalty. Instead of going for points, the Cadets opted to run a play, and with no time left St. Pierre dove in for the try. Frick converted, but that was academic, as the game was over, and Norwich took the win, 31-24.

“We beat are ourselves in the first half and again near the end, but we persevered to the final whistle and gutted it out to the last play,” said Norwich Head Coach Weggler.

Meanwhile, Middlebury recorded their first conference win, 58-3 over New Hampshire. Jackson Yang scored three tries, including the first one, and Middlebury's all-everything Jake Feury scored two tries, kicked a penalty and also five conversions for a personal total of 23.

So with three weeks gone, Norwich is in a solid position. UVM, despite being 1-2, is not out of it as bonus points have Vermont with as many points as if they won twice.