CALEDONIA, Mich. - Davenport played West Chester University on their home turf on November 13th in the NIRA Division II playoffs. The final score against the Rams was 57-7 resulting in the seventh win of their 15's season and leaving the Lady Panthers 7-0. It was a cold weekend for rugby, but that didn't stop them from coming out on top.

This game was considered the playoffs game that would determine if they would be traveling on the road to nationals again this year. The game started with a strong start with Abbi Kowalczk scoring in the first 43 seconds of the game, giving the Panthers the confidence they needed to carry them the rest of the game. Shortly after, West Chester was able to score their first and only try of the match, followed by a conversion resulting in a 7–7 score within the first four minutes of the first half. For the rest of the half the Panthers focused on maintaining possession and trying their best to exploit gaps in West Chester's defense. Scrums and lineouts went well, allowing for some gained meters. By the second half the score was 28-7. This game was no walk in the park for the Davenport team, they had to fight for each and every try this game in hopes of paving their way to nationals. By the second half they focused on their strengths in the scrums, and using the opportunities and use of space in the back line. Ashley Cowdrey made 8 out of 9 kicks throughout the game with two tries making 27 points towards the scoreboard all by herself. The final try of the game was scored by Mariah Pruitt.

For the national tournament, being hosted by Dartmouth College, Davenport will face Queens University of Charlotte for their chance at being national champions. Queens University will be quite the matchup for Davenport with their 8-0 overall standing against our 7-0 overall standing. They defeated American International in their playoffs match on Saturday by a 22–12 final score.

Scoring Breakdown for Davenport v. West Chester
Abbi Kowalczk - 2 tries (10 points)
Ashley Cowdrey - 2 tries 7 conversions 1 penalty kick  (27 points)
Addy Ochoa - 1 try (5 points)
Olivia Farkas - 1 tries (5 points)
Anise Tuia - 1 try (5 points)
Mariah Pruitt - 1 try (5 points)

Next week our Davenport Women's Rugby team takes on Queens University of Charlotte on Saturday, November 19th at Dartmouth College. Kickoff time is scheduled to be 2:15 PM in Hanover, N.H.

Story by: Taylor Badal