POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. – The Panthers traveled to Vassar College in New York to compete in the D1 Fall Championship quarterfinals. Davenport defeated Northeastern University in the quarterfinals 43-12 and advance to play the University of Connecticut the very next day. The quick turn around didn't matter as the Panthers won 34-10 to advance to their second straight championship match since moving up to division one.
 
During the game against Northeastern Davenport was met with less than favorable conditions (10 inches of snow) to play their first match on Saturday. The game was slowed down due to the mud and wet/frigid temperatures. Davenport played smart throughout the match, following the game plan of keeping the ball tight and letting the skilled forwards wear down the opposition. The game plan proved to be the difference, keeping the ball away from a very talented and athletic side. The Panthers put up three tries - locks Ashley Willsea and Lily O'Connor and outside center Megan Bird - in the first 20 minutes, but Northeastern answered with an Isabel Haber try for a 15-5 halftime. But two quick tries after the break gave Davenport the momentum to finish. The final score was 43-12 in favor of Davenport.
 
On Sunday the Panthers went up against the University of Connecticut. Sunday presented a new challenge for Davenport. Although the weather improved greatly, the field conditions were still poor, not letting our fleeted footed backs much of a chance to cut through the Huskies defense. The Panthers had to once again rely on the forward pact to keep ball position tight and methodically move down the field. The field position went back and forth, but Davenport's discipline to keep the ball tight and not throw it around in the horrid conditions was the difference. Final score was 34-10 in favor of Davenport.
 
The Panthers advance to the championship game where they will face Air Force on Sunday, December 2. The game will be played at Sportsplex at Matthews in Charlotte, North Carolina.
 
Story by: Devin Steiner and Head Coach Greg Teliczan