The Darien High School rugby team defeated a strong St. Peter's Prep side, 31-14, in Jersey City Sunday to finish 4-0-1 and first in its division in the New York Metropolitan League.
Following hard on the heels of notable victories over Keio, Xavier and Delbartonschools with long-established and strong rugby traditionsSunday's victory marks a crowning achievement for Darien in only its fourth season of competition. Having made a significant mark on the regional scene over the recent past, Blue Wave Rugby looks set to become a powerful force over the years ahead.
Darien started slowly against St. Peter's, unable to find any rhythm in attack. Although Darien had the better of territorial possession, and was able to neutralize St. Peter's forward strength both in the set pieces and in the loose, they failed to press their advantage in the running game, making several unforced errors, which denied them a number of chances to score. St. Peter's put points on the board first with a converted try for a 7-0 halftime lead.
Darien began the second half in much-improved form, leveling the score within minutes of the restart with a Sam McCarthy try, which he also converted. The Wave scored again shortly thereafter, Andrew McGarey crossing the Prep line, a try which was again converted by McCarthy for a 14-7 Darien advantage.
St. Peter's tied the scored midway through the second half. The Blue Wave redoubled their efforts into the final quarter of the game, applying enormous pressure on St. Peter's. Following a strong drive by the Darien forwards close to their opponents' line, Chris Brook went over for a try, which was again converted by McCarthy for a 21-14 Darien advantage.
Darien continued to raise its game, with Will Weinstock scoring another (unconverted) try after a turnover close to the St. Peter's Prep line. McGarey scored his second try of the game to put Darien up 31-14.
Following its commanding run in the New York Metropolitan League, the Blue Wave will conclude its 2011 campaign with the Connecticut Schools Tournament at Simsbury on Sunday, May 29. Darien is seeking to repeat as division champions.
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