NOVA overcame early miscues to rally from a 10-21 second half deficit to upend the visiting Raleigh Vipers 29-21.

Raleigh set the pace early with the forwards by driving a bruising maul 30 meters deep into the home side's own 22. Moments later the Vipers' outside center crossed the try-line to go up 7-0.

NOVA battled back with strong backline play stringing together multiple phases to put wing Terris Gregory in for a converted try. Tony Pianta added a PK to put NOVA up 10-7 with 20 to play in the first half.

Aided by a yellow card to NOVA's scrumhalf, Raleigh responded with gritty play and capitalized on NOVA defensive misalignment to put in two unanswered tries. NOVA failed to piece together much offense for the remainder of the first 40, and the visitors took a comfortable 11 point lead into half-time.

Led by strong play by flanker Pat Mirabella, NOVA responded with their best team performance of the fall. Outside center Anwaar Muhammad bulled over for a try, and Mirabella accounted for two more to put NOVA up 29-21 at final.

"We overcame an early deficit with good ball movement through the backline and strong defense from the forwards. Our fitness was the difference maker," said skipper JP Markey on the day's performance.

Next up NOVA hosts 2-3 Schuylkill River. Despite their record, Schuylkill possesses the offensive firepower to hang with the best in MARFU. This past summer they finished 2nd in the seven's national championship. Kick-off is set for 1pm at Gravelly Point.

NOVA 29, Raleigh 21
Tries: Mirabella 2, Gregory, Muhammad
Conversions: Pianta 3/4
Penalty Kicks: Pianta 1/2