West Hartford Black Hearts Rugby Never Gives Up in Loss to Madison

West Hartford traveled to Madison on April 29, 20112 for a Sunday evening kick off at Madison's home pitch. A nice venue with bleacher stands right up against the Connecticut shoreline – this pitch along with 2 others behind the stadium will host the CT U-19 High School Rugby Tournament at the end of May.

West Hartford showed up with 19 players and an assortment of vocal supporters – parents, aunts, uncles, brothers and sisters! Of course Abby Teitleman was there as well with home made cookies and to support The Black Hearts with her Touch judge skills. The teams agreed to four 17 minute periods rather than the typical two 35 minute halves. Both coaching staffs wanted to be sure that all players were able to see action.

Madison, while a fairly new club, knows it way around the rugby pitch! Big strong forwards and swift backs who move the ball well. Lots of communication leading to lots of action.

West Hartford started slow but eventually found some pace. While Madison put 6 tries on the board (converting 2), West Hartford never hung their heads. By the fourth period West Hartford had a few long breaks with support. A 5 meter scrum led to an 8 man pick from Alec Stott who put the ball down under the posts, conversion by Nick Floyd, broken thumb and all! Opportunity came West Hartford's way in the last minute, but eventually the ball went to touch and the referee whistled full time, with West Hartford losing 34-7.

West Hartford met a team that has more experience and greater numbers – yet despite that West Hartford never backed off. Certainly there are areas that the team needs to work at and improve in – but for a total of approximately 16 hours of practice time West Hartford played a very good brand of rugby.

Both teams, coaching staff and supporters met post game for a bowl of chili, salads, and desserts which were put out by the Madison parents. A good day for both sides.

The Black Hearts headed home to work on their game and prepare for Hartford U-19 in 2 weeks.