A-side vs. Siena
Fairfield 3 – Siena 21
This group entered their game against Siena anxious to redeem themselves from their loss
against Iona. With high expectations from supporters and even more so within themselves, the

Stags came out firing on all cylinders with aggressive line speed on defense and once again kick-
chase and counter-attacking. Desperate to cross the try line, we turned down easily available

points. Luckily, we got another opportunity moments later and took them, leading 3-0.
Again, a late try in the first half by Siena after defending for nearly 15 straight minutes risked
déjà vu. However, this time the boys stood tall and even had smiles on, knowing this game was
very winnable. Unfortunately, for the second week in a row, our attack lacked confidence and
killer instinct: that last pass just didn't find hand...that one line break went unsupported...or
that one ball carrier slipped in open space.
At this level, when a team is forced to play defense for as long as we did, chances of winning
are slim to none. It was constant pressure that led to Siena's two other scores...it certainly was
NOT a lack of heart, grit, or courage on defense. Credit to Sean Vernon '24, who earned man of
the match for the second week in a row for his persistent tackling and hard carriers. Patrick
McHale '27 also merited the recognition as he was arguably the brightest star for Fairfield on
both sides of the ball; he made excellent tackles and carried to space while counter-attacking
with composure and communicating with confidence.
Credit to Siena's set pieces; theirs were coherent and strong, ours were inconsistent. Again, I
chalk that up to fatigue from having to make so many tackles and be so antsy to get the ball.
Still, credit must be given as they eventually scored.
As they say, this is where the rubber meets the road. Obviously, expectations are high.
However, this team has come to a crossroads...and for the best! It's time they find their own
identity on the field. They can clearly defend, and they can win the kicking and territory game.
But, how do we put it all together with our attack? The best way to find out...play the best!
And, that's the opportunity we have on Friday.

What greater stage than under the lights back home against the defending champions?! The
Stags will look to take their "all gas, no break" motto on defense, and carry it over to attack...in
order to "thrive in chaos." See you all Friday at Rafferty Stadium!
B-side vs. Siena B
Fairfield 32 – Siena B 10
Once again, this unit was tasked with leveling the day for the club. And once again, they came
through! Ian Thomson '27 put on an absolute clinic at 10! Kicks to space, kicks at goal, attacking
space, pushing the tempo, and communicating the defensive fold...he was masterful!
Thomas Morales '27 was a wrecking ball on attack and defense. I'm sure some Siena players
are still sore from trying to tackler him and/or being tackled by him!
Ryan Hoffman '24 once again led his team in a structure, confident game. Always supporting
the ball and always making tackles on defense, he is the ultimate "lead by example."
This Friday will prove to be this unit's toughest test as Brown matches our program's depth of
roster and intent towards player development. Friday night will be a showcase indeed!

D3 vs. USMMA B
Fairfield 12 – USMMA B 34
Men's D3 traveled with almost a full roster on a Saturday evening to the U.S. Merchant Marine
Academy, where their B team and our squad would be the main event on campus that night! It
was a great experience for our guys to have the main field on campus and be the prime
sporting event.
Head Coach John Minogue '22 said of his team's performance and the experience: "Our guys
had a lot of fun! USMMA is a classy team, and every player on the pitch came away better for it
as players and as people. There's no doubt in our team's toughness or its courage to play
physical rugby."
Coach Minogue noted that Colby Carbone '27 and Tucker Martin '27 should be getting a call to
D1 B-side very soon. Their play and work rate really indicate they're ready for the next level!
Men's D3 is off this weekend, and return to play at Vassar College on Saturday 10/14!

Match Reports submitted by Austin Ryan, Director of Rugby/Head Coach, Men's Rugby