The York University Lions women's rugby team played in its first ever OUA semifinal match Saturday at the Guelph Gryphons' Varsity Field and were defeated 55-0 by the defending champion and No. 2 nationally-ranked squad.
 
This was a monumental occasion for the program, overseen by head coach Jenn Russell, as they have never made it to this point in OUA playoffs before but they were taken down by a talented opponent.
 
The loss ended the Lions' winning streak at two after beating both the Western Mustangs and the Brock Badgers. The Lions knew today's match-up was going to be tough as the Gryphons are undefeated on the season and finished first in the Shiels Division.
 
Top scorers for the Gryphons were Emmanuela Jada (three tries), Taylor Durham (two tries) and Jasmine Ins (three conversions).
 
The Lions will now face the McMaster Marauders for bronze next weekend, while the Gryphons will host the Queen's Gaels for the OUA championship. Both Guelph and Queen's have also qualified for the U SPORTS championships the following week in Lethbridge, Alta.