NORTHFIELD, Vt. -- Norwich University defeated the University of New England by a tally of 54-5 in a women's rugby match contested Saturday (Sep. 2), marking the start of the 2017 season. 

Caitlin Heale, Sheila Decker, and Denisse Zambon each had two tries to lead the Cadets (1-0) on offense. Amber Kelly, Audrey Meakin, Skylar Tonumapai'a, and Alissa Bissonnette added one apiece. 

The Nor'easters (0-1) received their lone score from Kaitlin Drumheller, who converted following a key 40-meter run by Lara Murnik. Defensively, Amanda Sancomb recorded nine tackles.

UNE will head for West Point, N.Y. on Friday to face the Army.