The Guilford men’s rugby team suffered a loss at their first night game Saturday, Sept. 15. The men of UNC-Charlotte gave the Quakers a 15-11 defeat.
The stands, or more realistically, the hill was filled with revelers and supporters thrilled by the action.
“I think it was the biggest crowd we’ve ever had,” said junior and team member, Morgan Kerr. “It was awesome to have all those people out there, getting loud and cheering. We really loved the support.”
While the Quakers’ fans cheered on every bone-crushing hit, the team’s offense seemed to struggle. Morale did not improve when team captain Chris Pugliese sprained a ligament in his ankle.
“It sucks that it had to happen two games into the season,” said Pugliese.
“We weren’t staying organized,” said Pugliese, commenting on team play. “We got all clustered up towards the end. A bad team can bring a mediocre team down. We just got sucked down by a bad team.”
While the action was getting revved up on the field, things were nearly as rowdy off the field. Public Safety was in attendance and at one point confiscated beer from a legal aged fan, a reminder for those who drink to keep it in a cup. Perhaps some people came to watch and learn the intricacies of the sport, but most were attending with the purpose of having an old-fashioned good time, like senior Jenn St. Mary.
“I have no idea what goes on,” said St. Mary, “but I like to watch them hit each other.”