Dallas, Texas – The Life University Running Eagles women's rugby team kicked off their inaugural conference campaign in the USA Rugby Women's Club D1 Division with a resounding statement, routing the Dallas Harlequins 122-0. This marked the program's first conference game in the senior club competition, following their entry into the division for the 2025-26 season. Pouring on 18 tries while holding the hosts scoreless, Life U demonstrated their superior attacking flair, set-piece dominance, and resolute defense throughout the 80 minutes.
The Running Eagles controlled proceedings with 68% possession and 71% territory, maintaining balanced pressure across all quarters. Their set pieces were flawless, winning 100% of their lineouts (with 3 steals) and dominating scrums. Defensively, Life U completed tackles at an 87% success rate (27 made, 4 missed), forcing turnovers and limiting the Harlequins to virtually no attacking opportunities.
Scoring began in the very first minute with Cecelia Rose's try, converted by Angelina Mason. Sarah Barsoum (7') and Dorothy Vunipola (9') added early points, followed by Tinerudo Mawoyo's brace (24', 26') and Alilia Tuitavake's quick double around the 35-minute mark. Allexia English also scored twice in the first half, with Mason's reliable boot adding the extras on most occasions.
The second half brought no respite for the Harlequins. Hallie Fewless (53'), Mercie Vivao (45'), Dorothy Vunipola (64'), Leila Opeti (70'), Brooklyn Vaifanua (78'), and Azhinaye Barner (74', 80') all crossed the line. Despite a yellow card to Fewless for foul play (54'), the Running Eagles seamlessly integrated tactical and injury substitutions to sustain their intensity.
Head Coach Ryszard Chadwick was full of praise for his team's execution: "I'm incredibly happy and impressed with the professional execution of our attack today. The players showed great composure, precision, and intent, turning possession into points with real quality."
Key Statistics:
- Tries Scored: 18
- Possession/Territory: 68%/71%
- Lineouts: 100% won (3 stolen)
- 22m Entries: 33 (with a 55% conversion rate)
