GASTONIA, N.C. -- Jordan Caro recorded the only Belmont Abbey try as the Crusaders dropped its Southern Rugby Conference Tournament opener to East Carolina, 29-7, at Martha Rivers Park in Gastonia. The contest featured the two third-place teams from the league's two divisions.

The action came early in the second half and, combined with Ryan Metzger's kick, cut the deficit to 17-7. But the Pirates added two late tries to add to the final score.

Belmont Abbey closes out its fall schedule next weekend in the tournament's 7th-8th place game.