Women's rugby earned two wins on a trip to the Northwest October 22-23. The Lions defeated Central Washington University 33-15 on Saturday at Tomlinson Stadium in Ellensburg, Washington, then stopped the Seattle Rugby Club 29-15 on Sunday at the Starfire Sports Complex in Seattle.

The match against the Wildcats began as a physical contest with both teams setting the tone early by trading some big collisions and field position, but neither squad was able to put any points on the board.

After building some pressure through penalties and a great lineout maul, Lindenwood forward Jadyn Collins powered through several defenders for the first try of the game. Carrying some momentum, the Lions found the try line again through Jet Metz. Central Washington slotted a penalty kick to make it 12-3 in favor of Lindenwood, but Helen van Hattem soon scored her first of three tries on the day. The Wildcats managed a score and conversion right before the break and the Lions led 19-10.

Lindenwood owned most of the second half by way of good field position and scoring from van Hattem. Central Washington tried to mount a late-game surge, but the Lions defense remained stout, thanks in part to reserve flanker Aifili Tuita'u who had a massive impact in the defensive line.

Another tough opponent awaited women's rugby on Sunday as they faced the long-running Seattle Rugby Club. The Lions took an early lead with a try from winger Irie Farley, who used some quick feet just six minutes into the contest, but the game hit a stalemate for some time thereafter until Christina Norsten powered over a defender for a second Lindenwood score.

The Lions continued to surge forward with Sam Ganoza earning five points, the first of two tries for her on the day. With the continued pressure Lindenwood was showing, Seattle did well not to crumble, managing 15 points before the final whistle. However, the second Ganoza try and another as time expired from van Hattem sealed the victory.

One of several standout performers was fullback Demi Allen, who kicked well and made several point saving tackles from the back.  

Acting Head Coach Trevor Locke had many positive things to say about the effort.

"The overall weekend was a resounding success and a testament to the hard work the entire Lindenwood roster puts in every day," he said. "While we still room to grow in many areas, the team really demonstrated that they are committed and willing to compete."

After an idle weekend, the Lions will get their chance to compete once again when they host the St. Louis Sabres November 5. The opening kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. that Saturday night at Hunter Stadium in St. Charles, Missouri.