Women's Rugby | 10/4/2026 8:33:00 PM

The York University Lions women's rugby team went head-to-head with the Waterloo Warriors on Sunday afternoon at the Columbia Icefield. York entered the matchup with a 1-3 record, while Waterloo came into the game with a 2-2 record, with York looking for a second straight win after their senior day victory over the Trent Excalibur.

York opened the scoring in the ninth minute when Eunice Aladesempe crossed the try line to give the Lions an early lead. York extended its advantage in the 13th minute when Mistura Are scored another try, putting the Lions ahead 14-0. Waterloo responded in the 20th minute when Ava Hayes scored a try, cutting York's lead to 14-.7 The Warriors added another try in the 31st minute from Sarah Swiderski to bring Waterloo within two points at 14-12. York answered in the 36th minute when Sihrena Gordon crossed the try line, giving the Lions a 19-12 lead heading into halftime.

Waterloo continued to battle their way back into the match. Amy Best scored in the 42nd minute to bring the Warriors back even for the first time on the day, 19-19. York responded in the 53rd minute when Are posted her second try of the afternoon, putting York back on top 26-19. 

However, the Warriors took control of the match from there. First Olivia Larssen scored in the 58th minute to make it a two-point game, 26-24, before Hayes added her second try of the day in the 65th minute, giving the Warriors their first lead of the contest, 29-26. Then, Waterloos Adina Marsh scored her side's final try in the 71st minute as the Warriors completed the comeback and secured the 36-26 victory.

The loss moves York to 1-4 on the season, while Waterloo improves to 2-3.

LOOKING AHEAD:

The Lions will look to bounce back when they close out their season hosting the Guelph Gryphons on Friday, Oct. 9, at 7:00 p.m. at Alumni Field. Admission is free.