BUENA VISTA, Va. – Penn State Men’s Rugby opened Rugby East conference play with a 29–12 bonus-point victory over Southern Virginia University on Saturday, overcoming a physical first half before pulling away late.
The Nittany Lions established control of territory early, eventually turning that pressure into points in the 14th minute. Sophomore vice captain JW Sarkees finished the opening try, with freshman flyhalf Charlie Fullard adding the conversion to put Penn State ahead 7–0.
Penn State continued to threaten in attack, with winger Will Dadswell finishing a well-executed two-phase attacking sequence in the corner to extend the advantage.
Southern Virginia responded immediately, using a quick pick-and-go through the middle to score a converted try. The hosts then capitalized on Penn State discipline issues to add another score, leveling the match at 12–12 with just minutes remaining in the half.
The Nittany Lions answered before the break when freshman prop Henry Mallory broke through from approximately 20 meters out and finished in the corner. The try sent Penn State into halftime with a 17–12 lead.
The second half remained a physical contest, with neither side able to find the try line during the opening 20 minutes. As fatigue began to affect the Southern Virginia defense, Penn State’s depth and continued pressure began to make an impact.
The Nittany Lions broke through again off a well-executed backline set piece, with freshman winger Jack Dempsey finishing for his first collegiate try. Dempsey had entered the matchday roster after an injury to Noah Tuiolosega during warmups.
Penn State continued to build pressure as substitutions provided fresh legs and helped raise the team's intensity. Dempsey struck again in the 77th minute to complete his brace and secure the bonus point for the Nittany Lions. Fullard added the conversion to make the final score 29–12.
The victory gives Penn State a strong start to Rugby East play, with the Nittany Lions showing their depth and ability to close out a physical match.
Penn State returns home this weekend for its first Rugby East home match of the season, hosting Army for Family and Friends Weekend. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. at West IM Fields in University Park, Pa.