SOUTH EUCLID, Ohio -- Notre Dame College women's rugby team started their first official NIRA season last Sunday, hosting No. 2 Dartmouth College. The Falcons scored late in the contest but fell 76-5.  
 
NDC showed a mix of experience in the starting lineup boasting five freshmen, eager to make their impact known. While the first 10 minutes were back and forth with repeated pressure on both ends, Dartmouth's experience and constant pressure pushed them to victory.
 
The lone Notre Dame try was scored by freshman Saher Hamdan as the Falcons applied constant pressure on the Dartmouth end in the final 10 minutes.
 
"Dartmouth is a class program and it was great to host them," said head coach Luke Markovich. "While we're never happy with a loss, there are many positives to take from our first match. We've identified our problem areas and are looking for redemption against West Chester, Friday, at home."
 
The Falcons host West Chester University on September 7. The contest will begin at 4 p.m.