Match Report - Harvard vs Buffalo

By UCR-PRESS
5 Nov 2006

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Harvard won a thrilling game against Buffalo on Saturday and has advanced to the semi-finals of the NRU Competition.

The game, played at the University of Buffalo's football and soccer stadium, was played at a frenetic pace, and both teams were willing to make use of the wide field. Although Buffalo outscored Harvard by 5 tries to 4, Harvard's superior goal-kicking was the difference on the day.

The opening 30 minutes were dominated by Harvard, and they were able to upset their opponents with quick multiphase possessions. Bobby Spang, Tim Creamer, and Colin Kelly all scored tries in the first half. Jean Sebastien Cagnioncle added 2 conversions and a penalty as Harvard threatened to post a big score.

But at 22 - 5 Buffalo was able to get back into the game taking advantage of Harvard mistakes and executing two good tries. Harvard was disappointed to be up only by 7 points at halftime as they had dominated the majority of the half.

The second half was an error ridden affair as both teams frantically sought to prolong their season. Both teams were guilty of repeatedly turning the ball over-- Harvard lost plenty of ball in the tackle and Buffalo made unforced errors because of the pressure Harvard applied in defense.

The game was won in the 63rd minute when the score was 22-20 in Harvard's favor. Fullback Greg Balliro chased his own kick and was rewarded for his efforts by intercepting a would-be pass from his Buffalo opposite. He then ran 60 meters to score in the corner. That pulled Harvard out to a 27 - 20 lead.

The anxiety levels rose on the Harvard sideline as Buffalo created endless waves of attack. Harvard held firm until the last minute when they finally surrendered their line. Buffalo had an opportunity to level the scores but missed the difficult conversion and the score finished at 27-25.

Harvard will play Boston College this weekend in a match that will decide who will go through to the National playoffs which are held in April.

Harvard XV
1 KEONE NAKOA
2 DAVE GARNER
3 MIKE HOFFMANN
4 BLEZEJ KESY
5 COLIN KELLY
6 MIKE MANCO-JOHNSON
7 PATRICK HOLKINS - replaced by Chidubem Iloabachie at the 60th minute
8 JEAN SEBASTIEN CAGNIONCLE
9 BOBBY SPANG
10 ROB CAMPBELL
11 ANDRE PLAIR
12 TIM CREAMER
13 JOSH COPP
14 TOM CACERES
15 GREG BALLIRO