Mustang Boys Kick-off 2011 Season

On Sunday, April 10th, just past noon, Fireman's Grove began filling with cars as the Saratoga Mustang Boys rolled in to prepare for their first match of the year. The coaches called for the early arrival to work out some last second bugs and finalize a few details from practices. It paid off, as things really clicked for the young Mustang team - a team that the coaches announced at registration meetings was a "rebuilding team." With so many of the club's long-standing members from its first year in 2007 having graduated last year, the staff was unsure of how things would unfold back in February.

When the Kingston Mad Dogs Rugby Club made it to the Grove, Saratoga knew the build-up was legitimate. Last year, Kingston was a powerhouse in CDYR and through communications with their coaches early this season, Saratoga expected them to start this season where they left things last year.

At kick-off, Saratoga received with a line-up of all veterans, but most of which had only one year of experience and several were donning a new jersey for this season. The tone was set early for eight-man Rob Marshall as he tanked his way for many large gains. This culminated with a score at the 15th minute. The try was converted by new inside center Race Viedt to give the Mustangs a quick 7-0 lead. As the half drew on, those eight man runs were more and more independent as the Mustangs forwards endurance began to fade and support was longer in getting there. This demise in endurance allowed Kingston to drive through with their own score to cut the lead to 7-5.

At half, a few changes were made to the pack as Coach Ristau needed to get fresh legs into the mix. This worked to the Mustang advantage as it was able to draw a penalty in the 39th minute that had Viedt put another 3 points on the board with clutch kick. The remainder of the game was scoreless, but hard fought the entire way. With a single Kingston try to tie and a conversion to take the lead, Saratoga knew strong defense was the key. Many critical weak side tackles were made by veteran scrumhalf, Tyler Krastins, as he knew he was last line of defense before big runs. Additionally, it was a very successful line-out strategy and execution that allowed Saratoga to win over 80% of its own line-outs, as well as steal half on Kingston's, as second row Dylan Thompson was relentless in his quest to turn the ball to his side, regardless of who was throwing.

Final Score: Saratoga 10, Kingston 5. Mustang Man of the match, as named by Kingston - Flyhalf and team captain - Chris Heckman

With the Saratoga roster too big for a single team and too small for two teams, the coaches were able to secure a developmental half for those hungry Mustangs that were unable to make the regulation match. Although only playing 14 on 14, Saratoga was able to showcase some of its up and coming rookies and veterans. Key runs on the wing by outside center Brian Kuczek and outside tackling by wing Rob Dussault allowed Saratoga to keep it close. In the end, Kingston grabbed a 5-0 victory. That was a small loss in comparison to the experience gained by many of the rookies as they got their first game experience - something I have said for over 12 years - you only think you know the sport with practice - you come to know the sport the first time you play it.

After Sunday's performance, the coaches are now wondering if 2011 is a rebuilding year or just a reloading year.

Please come support the Mustangs on Friday, April 15th at 5:00 as they host the Schenectady Chargers!