PURFC opened its home season at West Windsor with a game against Cornell on October
14, 2017. Princeton was looking to recover some form after a series of injuries and delayed
medical clearances left the team with an away loss to Harvard last week. Harvard’s overall
size and deep rugby experience proved too much for the Tigers who lost that match 71-12.
Performing very well in all phases despite the result, Billy Haynes, senior co-captain and 8-
man, was Man of the Match.

The forecast improved steadily throughout the morning and by the time Cornell arrived in
Princeton there was no rain in sight when the teams took the field. Crowd support for
PURFC was tremendous. The first gathering of the newly-formed Parents’ Supporters
group produced loud and vigorous encouragement from the 50+ parents, grandparents,
siblings and other relatives who had enjoyed a tailgate prior to the match. Special thanks
to Andy Tedford for initiating the group and doing the legwork to make the food, tents, and
high spirits happen!

In addition to the family support, it was great to see representatives of PUWRFC, other
student friends, and a cadre of our injured players who offered loud support from the
sidelines.

The Tigers came out ready to play at home and on grass. PURFC lost no time in recording
some impressive tries. Greg McCord, sophomore fullback, scored a monumental five tries
and was awarded the team’s Man of the Match.

Other tries came from co-captain, senior center Mark Goldstein, sophomore fly half Kwame
Amaning, junior wing Luke Hall, and senior prop Mark-Avery Tamakloe who was
impressive in his offense and defensive play all game.

Amaning and junior scrum half Aaron Bargotta shared kicking duties.
Score was 36-5 at the half. At the final whistle, it was PURFC 55-Cornell 20.
After the match Princeton hosted Cornell to sandwiches and snacks before the Big Red
players had to leave for their long drive back to Ithaca NY. We wish Cornell all the best for
the remainder of their season.