After beginning the season with three straight wins, expectations were high for UNE to stay in the win column on Homecoming Weekend. There was excitement in the air as everyone packed the forum parking lot before the game. The lot was transformed into a melting pot of students, alumni, and family, all with a shared love for UNE.
“It was great to see the UNE community come together and show their pride for the school,” said UNE Junior Ethan Burke. This year’s homecoming game broke the record attendance level for any game at Blue Storm Stadium, with 2,538 fans watching from the bleachers.
Despite the great energy and atmosphere, UNE fell to the University of Rochester 29-27 in a double-overtime loss on Saturday. This marks the team’s first loss of the season. Both rosters traded the lead throughout the game, but Rochester’s two-point conversion in the second overtime proved too much for the Nor’easters to overcome.
The Nor’easter offense was led by running back Damien Jones and quarterback Jarrett Henault. Jones rushed for a season-high 47 yards, including a goal-line run for a touchdown. Hennault helmed the offense for UNE throughout the game, totaling 262 yards on 24 made passes and two touchdowns.
On the Nor’easter’s final possession, Henault connected with tight end Brady Feola for a 22-yard touchdown, but the offense could not convert a crucial two-point conversion to force a third overtime.
Fans were treated to an instant classic game on Saturday. UNE was competitive throughout the contest and had a chance to win up until the very end. The team should be proud of their effort and sportsmanship following the game. Looking to the future, the team must now prepare to face Castleton this Saturday at Blue Storm Stadium.
