The National Sports Center North Field roared into life as the Bermuda International 7s tournament got underway, delivering a day of high-octane rugby that set the stage for a captivating weekend.
With the sun blazing, teams from across the US and Bermuda battled it out, showcasing the speed, skill, and sheer determination that makes 7s rugby such a compelling spectacle.
Leading the way is the Bermuda U23s, who went 3-0, and the Saratoga U23s, made up of collegiate players from the Albany area (Siena, RPI, Albany), which went 3-0, allowing just two tries.
Stony Brook University got the tournament rolling with a hard-fought 19-10 victory over Maryland II Black, setting the tone for a day of unpredictable results. Boston RFC U23 then laid down a marker with a comprehensive 26-0 win over Columbia 1 Blue, demonstrating their attacking prowess.
The University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in Saint Louis (UHSP) impressed with a 28-5 triumph over Marist University, while Saratoga U23 delivered a clinical 24-0 shutout against Maryland I Gold.
Harvard University, however, showed their class with a resounding 45-0 victory over Columbia 2 White. Norwich University also made a statement, overpowering Stony Brook University 29-0.
The afternoon saw the intensity ramp up, with Columbia 1 Blue bouncing back to defeat UHSP 19-12. Boston RFC U23 and Marist University played out a thrilling 17-17 draw, highlighting the competitive nature of the tournament.
Maryland I Gold responded strongly, thrashing Columbia 2 White 41-0, while Saratoga U23 continued their impressive form with a 31-12 win over Harvard.
The local high school teams provided a fantastic spectacle, with Beyond Rugby Red edging Beyond Rugby Blue 12-5, before Blue returned to win 28-21 in a later match up.
Bermuda U23s made their presence felt with a dominant 40-0 victory over Stony Brook University, sending a clear message to their rivals. Norwich University continued their winning streak, dispatching Maryland II Black 43-7.
Columbia 1 Blue secured another win, defeating Marist University 26-7, while Boston RFC U23 edged out UHSP 19-14 in a closely contested encounter. Harvard University bounced back with a 24-7 win over Maryland I Gold, and Saratoga U23 finished the day strongly, defeating Columbia 2 White 47-0.
The first day’s action has set the stage for a thrilling day two. With teams vying for crucial points, expect more high-octane rugby and dramatic finishes. The Bermuda International 7s tournament is proving to be a fantastic showcase for the sport, and fans can look forward to another day of exhilarating action at the National Sports Center North Field.
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