Rhode Island and Coast Guard are tied at the top of the New England Men’s DII conference as both won this weekend.

Coast Guard slammed Boston University 71-0 to move to 2-0. 

Coast Guard graduated half of their starting lineup, including their biggest forwards and their halfback combination. And they have been hit by injury early. But the players who were B-side players have stepped in admirably, and Head Coach Crist Holveck slotted in some freshmen this weekend.

“My on-field leadership, Steve Palmieri, is a true leader,” added Holveck. “He’s not the fastest, or biggest player,  or best technically, but he communicates well and has great field sense.  He might be the “cleanest” rugby player on the pitch I’ve ever seen.”

Meanwhile, URI won big 48-18 over Norwich. Captain and fullback Tom Morini scored two tries, as did center Able Hayes, while No. 8 Jack Kelly, wing Ryan Malloy, and loose forward Sam Reyes all touching down once. Flyhalf Anthony Kennedy kicked five conversions and a penalty for 13 points.

Lock Kyle Hevert was named player of the game, as URI also moved to 2-0.

Vermont, which had been upset by Coast Guard last week, came back to beat New Hampshire 20-19. UNH has got to be wondering what they need to do as they have lost two games by a total of three points, and against strong teams. With plenty of rugby to play, UNH might well make a late run.