Story Courtesy of Rachel Crist, Rugby Contributor

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - The Davenport University women's rugby team showcased their dominance in the NIRA Division II Semifinals, defeating the West Chester University Golden Rams 70-7 in a commanding performance that highlighted their skills and teamwork.

The Panthers started strong, with Abby Zurek opening the scoring just 3:28 into the match, setting the tone for what would be a relentless first half. Lionala Mayorga added another try. Aubrey Crist then took over the match with a try at and another successful conversion.

Alopa Nau kept the momentum going with a try, and Olivia Male followed suit with another try soon after, with Crist's conversion pushing the Panthers further ahead. Mayorga capped off the half with her second try, giving DU a commanding 36-0 lead at halftime.

West Chester responded early in the second half with a try and a conversion, but the Golden Rams' efforts were quickly overshadowed by DU's sustained pressure. Carrie Coyer-Westerberg emerged as a key player in the second half, scoring four tries. Crist added another conversion, while Mayorga completed her hat-trick scoring her third try for the Panthers. Alopa Nau sealed the match with a final try in the last moments of the game.

The Panthers' victory was a testament to their all-around strength. Abby Zurek was a defensive powerhouse with strong tackles and powerful carries, while Jean-Marie Gaines consistently secured rucks and poached key possessions. Leilani Lepe contributed significantly with long runs, multiple assists, and crucial defensive plays.

With this win, DU advances to their third consecutive NIRA Division II National Championship match. The Panthers will face American International College on Saturday, Nov. 23 at 12:30 p.m. EST at Dartmouth College's Burnham Field in Hanover, New Hampshire. The match can be watched live on ESPN+.

Match Points
Carrie Coyer-Westerberg - 20 points
Aubrey Crist -15 points
Lionala Mayorga -15 points 
Alopa Nau - 10 points
Abby Zurek - 5 points
Olivia Male - 5 points