By: Nick Pope
MARIETTA, Ga. – The Life University Women's Rugby team delivered a commanding 73-3 victory over BYU on Saturday at home, showcasing offensive firepower to set the stage for another National Championship appearance against Lindenwood next week.
From the opening whistle, the Running Eagles set the tone, racking up 11 tries across both halves and smothering any offensive momentum from BYU. Angelina Mason was instrumental in the attack and was nearly flawless from the tee, slotting 9 conversions and tallying 18 points on the evening.
Tries were scored throughout the lineup, with Hattie Greenwood dotting down twice and additional tries coming from Lissa Salisbury, Alilia Tuitavake, Annabella Vogel, AJ Haughey, Azhinaye Barner, and Emerson Callegari. A lone penalty kick was all BYU could muster against the relentless Life U defense.
Statistically, the Running Eagles dominated the set piece, winning 9 scrums to BYU's 6 and completely overwhelming the visitors in the lineout battle (17 to 5). Despite a high number of penalties conceded (12), Life U limited handling errors (4) and maintained composure throughout. No cards were issued in what remained a clean but physical affair.
Head Coach Ryszard Chadwick praised the team's response and focus: "A great statement of intent from the team. I was looking for a reaction and we got one. Focus is now all into defending the national championship."
With this victory, Life U once again sets up a National Championship matchup against Lindenwood. Kickoff against the two-seeded Lions is set for April 29th, in Stanford, California.
