First-ever varsity rugby match for Harvard

In its first-ever contest as a varsity program, the Harvard women's rugby team dropped a 39-10 decision to Quinnipiac Tuesday night on Cumnock Field. The Crimson held the possession advantage for much of the first half, but two quick strikes from the Bobcats left Harvard in a 12-0 hole at the half.

Aniebiet Abasi notched the first try of the season for Harvard early in the second half, scooping up a Quinnipiac clearing kick and racing around the left end for the score. Senior captain Xanni Brown plunged in from short range for Harvard's second try of the game, but a poised Quinnipiac team collected numerous tries in the second half en route to the 39-10 win.

"It was a great night of NCAA rugby under the lights," commented Quinnipiac head coach Becky Carlson. "Harvard capitalized on some early energy but by half time we were able to iron out our offense and it all came together." Newly appointed Harvard head coach Sue Parker agreed with the assessment, adding "I'm really pleased with what I saw from our players, the first 37 minutes we dominated possession and territory. We should have gotten some points on the board ..."