HAMILTON, Ont. - The Laurier Golden Hawks men's rugby team kicked off their 2025 campaign in style, earning an emphatic 45-12 victory over the McMaster Marauders at Ron Joyce Stadium in Hamilton on Saturday night.

Veteran standouts Joe Aceti and Ben Foote, both back for their fifth year with the purple and gold, powered the Golden Hawks with two tries apiece, setting the tone for Laurier's potent attack.

Second-year economics major Jordan Keizs, along with 2024/25 team Rookie of the Year and MVP Finn Hughes, and Ali Rude each crossed the try line to further extend the Golden Hawks' lead.

Rookie Jack Gore was clinical from the tee, converting five tries to keep Laurier in firm control throughout the match.

With the win, Laurier extended its winning streak against McMaster to five straight matches, dating back to 2018.

They will look to carry that momentum into their home opener against the York Lions (0-1), who lost 62-5 in their season debut against Toronto.

Match time at University Stadium on Friday, September 19, is 7 p.m. Admission is free.