Newton - The Boston Maccabi Rugby Club defeated Cape Cod Rugby 18-0 yesterday in the opening game of the 2012 Division IV New England Rugby Football Union season in Newton, Mass.

The Maccabis, who a year ago were still in the earliest stages of formation, stormed on to the scene yesterday, with Ben Lupatkin and Chris Pavlow scoring tries, and Harry Shipps, nailing two penalty kicks and a conversation to put the game out of reach. The Maccabi defense was stunning throughout the day, withering any attempt by Cape Cod to move the ball on offense and solidifying the shutout.

"A year ago this team was an idea, today the league knows that the Maccabis are here to stay," said Alex Goldstein, Founder and President of the Maccabis. "We had a bit of rust lingering from the summer, but we played as a unit with cohesion and aggression and have the score to show for it. I am tremendously proud of what our guys have accomplished in such short time."

The game was played at the Maccabis new home field at Newton Highlands Playground, marking the first time an official NERFU rugby game has been played in the City of Newton. Many fans were on hand, including Consul General from Israel to New England Shai Bazak, who dropped by to wish the Maccabis well on their first official season.

The Boston Maccabi Rugby Club is comprised of athletes who come together to play competitive and successful rugby, while also maintaining an abiding commitment to the timeless Jewish values of tikkun olam and tzedakah – repairing the world and giving back. Ultimately, the goal of the Boston Maccabi Rugby Club is to be known as much for its service to the community as for the quality of its rugby play. Through service projects in the Boston area and partnerships with area non-profits, the Boston Maccabi Rugby Club distinguishes itself as a team that leverages the powerful bond formed on the playing field to strengthen the community as a whole off the field. The Boston Maccabi Rugby Club welcomes Jews and non-Jews alike to their ranks and actively recruits and encourage athletes of all backgrounds to join them as they build bridges between the Jewish community and the community at large through this exceptional sport.