Panthers maintain win streak in tight match against Lindenwood

Written by Nicole Carvalho, Rugby Contributor

Grand Rapids, Mich. - The Davenport University women's rugby squad faced off against Lindenwood University JV in a thrilling match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. The final score would read 27-14 in favor of the Panthers, marking the fourth victory of the 15's season and preserving their undefeated record at 4-0.

The last time Davenport University faced off against the Lions was in 2019, resulting in a score of 123-0 in favor of the Lions. However, the Lions entered the game well-prepared and executed their strategy effectively this time around, becoming the first team this season to score tries against DU. The contest began as a fierce battle with neither side yielding easily. The first try of the game came at the 16-minute mark, courtesy of Abby Zurek, and it was the lone try of the first half. The game's intensity escalated with yellow cards handed out to both Davenport and the Lions, making the match even more challenging. Nevertheless, this adversity did not stop the Panthers. As the first half drew to a close, Davenport was within striking distance of scoring another try when Lindenwood committed a penalty. Captain Aubrey Crist made a strategic decision to kick for points, successfully securing a valuable kick that brought the halftime score to 8-0 in favor of the Panthers.

The beginning of the second half presented some difficulties for the Panthers, as the Lions executed precise plays, resulting in two consecutive tries and conversions, bringing the score to 14-8 and testing Davenport's resilience. However, the Panthers were resolute, fully aware that there was no time to back down. When Lindenwood came close to scoring again, Carrie Coyer-Westerberg intervened, holding the ball up and regaining possession for Davenport. This pivotal moment restored the team's momentum as shortly after, Kara Higgins broke through the Lions' defensive line and scored a crucial try for Davenport right under the posts. The Panthers were far from finished, with Lionala Mayorga making an electrifying run through the defensive line with exceptional speed and side-stepping to secure another try. This was followed by a powerful effort from forward Olivia Farkas, who bulldozed through the Lions' defense to score yet another try for DU. The final score stood at 27-14 in favor of the Panthers.

This game presented numerous challenges for the Panthers, including injuries that forced players to switch positions and adapt to unfamiliar roles. It is worth noting that the women's rugby team has never lost a 15s home game, a testament to their commitment and prowess on the field.

Scoring Breakdown for Davenport vs. Lindenwood University
Aubrey Crist – 2 conversions and 1 kick for points (7 points)
Lionala Mayorga - 1 try (5 points)
Kara Higgins - 1try (5 points)
Abby Zurek - 1 try (5 points)
Olivia Farkas - 1 try (5 points)

Next week, the team is gearing up for another match against Adrian College set to take place on Saturday, Oct. 7 with kickoff at 10 a.m. at the DU Turf Field.

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Players Mentioned

Aubrey Crist: Scrumhalf/Flyhalf; 5' 4"; Sophomore

Olivia Farkas: 8 man/Prop; 5' 8"; Junior

Nicole Carvalho: Wing; 5' 3"; Freshman

Abby Zurek: 5' 4"; Freshman

Kara Higgins: 5' 7"; Freshman

Carrie Coyer-Westerberg: 5' 9"; Freshman

Lionala Mayorga: 5' 5"; Freshman

Players Mentioned

Aubrey Crist
: 5' 4"; Sophomore
: Scrumhalf/Flyhalf

Olivia Farkas
: 5' 8"; Junior
: 8 man/Prop

Nicole Carvalho
: 5' 3"; Freshman
: Wing

Abby Zurek
: 5' 4"; Freshman

Kara Higgins
: 5' 7"; Freshman

Carrie Coyer-Westerberg
: 5' 9"; Freshman

Lionala Mayorga
: 5' 5"; Freshman