The men’s team beat a very determined Dartmouth team on Saturday by the score of 22-19, moving them to 2-0 in the inaugural season of the College Premier Division. In a sunny, but cold day in Happy Valley the Nittany Lions were able to get on the scoreboard first with a pick and go try from Junior hooker Chris Karas. After a few minutes of tough defense on both teams, a few missed tackles allowed Dartmouth to level the score with a try of their own under the post. The scores did not stay level for long though as right before halftime, Karas was able to get his second try of the day, with another scrappy try by the goal line. Moving into halftime, Penn State led 14-7.
After half, flyhalf Joe Baker added a penalty to put the lions up 17-7. However after a couple Penn State penalties, Dartmouth found themselves knocking on the Penn State goal line and were able to put another try in, making the score 17-14. Up by three points and back attacking, Penn State scored the try of the day, with the ball moving from sideline to sideline and eventually ending up in the hands of Freshman fullback Dominic DeFalco. Unable to make the conversion, Penn State led 22-14. The game was not over yet though as with 10 minutes, the Dartmouth winger scored in the corner, and with the missed conversion, the lions were again up by three. After 7 minutes of relentless defense inside their 22 meter line, the lions were able to force a penalty and with no time remaining the ball was kicked to touch and the game was over. Penn State now moves to 2-0 and next week face their long time rivals Navy in Annapolis for a CPD east showdown that is sure to get everyone talking. If you are an alumni in the area or thinking about traveling with the team your support is always welcomed. Thanks again for everyone who came out to the match Saturday and we hope to see you all again soon
