FAIRFIELD, Connecticut – German Rossi's second penalty kick of the contest split the uprights with no time on the clock, giving the American International College men's rugby team a walk-off 6-5 win against Liberty Rugby Conference foe Fairfield University on Saturday, September 7.

AIC opens the year 1-0 overall and in the LRC.

Rossi's first kick came early, as the Yellow Jackets drew a penalty inside the 22 in the eighth minute, and the senior made no mistake with the opportunity, driving it home for a 3-0 AIC lead. 

The Stags responded, and took the lead 10 minutes later on a try, though the conversion sailed wide. 

From there, both defenses locked down, and the Yellow Jackets ensured no further scoring by the home team thanks to a collective effort. Through the rain and through tough contact, the score held at 5-3 for most of the match. 

With time winding down to zero, the Yellow Jackets managed one last burst, and a late call against the hosts provided the bit of daylight AIC needed to break through the clouds. Rossi again was tasked with a kick, and with the game on the line and time expired, the captain of the Yellow Jackets came through. He parted the goalposts with his attempt, giving the Yellow Jackets the result they hoped for.

AIC will next play its first game of the fall 2024 campaign at Ronald J. Abdow Field as the Yellow Jackets host Siena at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 13 as part of a doubleheader where women's rugby will also play at 5:00 p.m. against West Chester.