Rizzo's choice of "Seafarers" for the annual Halloween weekend bus trip theme proved either inspired or forewarned as NYM and New Haven got their naval kicks on a rain-soaked field next to a tidal river. New Havens big guns proved the difference in this playoff game.

The battle commenced as the two forces met on the muddy banks of the West River in West Haven, CT, to deicde their playoff fate. Torrential rain had turned those muddy banks into a quagmire and the river was rapidly advancing through the minimal flood defenses. NYM started forcefully running Matt Beckley and Michael Toth into the middle of New Haven. This resulted in a penalty against New Haven and Brian Eastman stroked over the first points of the day, 3-0 to NYM. Despite playing some good rugby New Haven gradually started to wrestle control from NYM and their pack started to play keep-ball. Once they got on the front foot they started scoring and ended to half in front 22-3.

In the second half New Haven continued where they left off and began to run in the tries, their large South Sea Islanders in the backs prominant in attack and stopping any advances by NYM dead in their tracks. With the game running away from NYM and the pitch flooding rapidly, so denying the chance of playing a B-game, all our squad were allowed to get into the game. Dave Elwell showed some nice touches when he came in trying to spark a mini-revival, and although it wasn't enough he got Man of the Match for NYM. The final score was 67-3 to New Haven.

The drink up and bus back were lively affairs with many people dressed in piratical gear. Gilligan and the Captain made an appearance, as did Agua Hombre. Many charges were also brought before the Kangaroo court, with Cap'n Cody Gras as judge, Jasmine Lik as bailiff, Cap'n Turtle Persanis as prosecution and Gilligan Crafton himself as defense. The defense only won one case all night. After landing back in NYC more treasure was sought in Baker Street.