The York University Lions women's rugby team was looking for its fourth consecutive win over the Waterloo Warriors dating back to 2014 on Saturday afternoon in their season opener. However, they encountered a new and reformed Warriors lineup, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown at the Warrior Field on Saturday afternoon. Alas, a shorthanded Lions found themselves in tough against the home team, falling 57-14 to Waterloo.

HOW IT HAPPENED:

• Waterloo wasted no time in establishing a dominating and consistent presence on the scoreboard against the Lions. They found their offensive rhythm through the three tries from Isa Franco-Valencia, complemented by six additional tries courtesy of six Warrior players. 
• York managed to make their mark on the scoreboard when they executed two tries and conversions of their own. Erin Preston contributed one of the tries, alongside Harshini Chinnian, who made her debut in the OUA after recovering from an injury, and secured her first OUA try and the second of the match. The tries were accompanied by two conversions courtesy of Natasha Start.
• Despite a strong effort from the shorthanded Lions, the Warriors lead proved insurmountable, as they earned a 57-14 victory.

The Lions will look for their first victory since Sept. 10, 2022, when they welcome the Western Mustangs for their home opener at Alumni Field. The game is scheduled for 1:00 pm on Saturday, Sept. 9.