BELMONT, N.C. -- The Belmont Abbey Rugby team scored less than a minute into the game, then rode a strong defensive effort, leading to a 36-0 victory over UNC-Wilmington Saturday night at Alumni Field.

Six different players found the try zone during the game, including five after The Abbey led just 5-0 at halftime. 

Seniors Gavin Smith, Maximus Bournos, Alex Malagnon Castanon and Nate Sturgis were honored in a pregame ceremony. They are the first graduating class in the history of Abbey Rugby.

With the non-conference victory, the Crusaders improve to 4-3 overall. Belmont Abbey returns to action next Saturday for the final home game of the season. Kickoff against The Citadel is set for 1 p.m. at Alumni Field.

SCORING SUMMARY

• 1st Half
  • BAC: Ka'Ron Young try (conversion missed), 5-0
• 2nd Half
  • BAC: Hunter Vanarman try (conversion missed), 10-0
  • BAC: Johannes van Grann try (conversion missed), 15-0
  • BAC: Will Rimes try (Joshua Milling conversion), 22-0
  • BAC: Oli Fussell try (Milling conversion), 29-0
  • BAC: Ares Cartier try (Milling conversion), 36-0