Men's Rugby | 3/22/2017 6:52:00 PM

VICTORIA, British Columbia, Canada – Five different Central Washington University men's rugby players found the try zone as the Wildcats bounced back from its only 15's loss of the season, defeating the University of Victoria 31-29 Wednesday afternoon in Canada.
 
"We were a lot sharper today in the big moments and when it really mattered we found a way to get a result," CWU Head Coach Todd Thornley said.  "Not a perfect outing, but a definite improvement from Saturday, which was pleasing to see, especially against a good side in U. Vic."
 
The Vikes opened the game scoring and after the made conversion, took a 7-0 lead over the Wildcats.  Central struck back with a pair of scores from Jeremy Lenaerts and Sincliar Clinton.  Nick Siemens nailed the conversion on both attempts to give CWU a 14-7 lead.
 
The University of Victoria chipped away at the lead with a drop goal, and took a 17-14 lead after following with another try and conversion.  Senior Simi Ratukalou gave the Wildcats a 19-17 lead heading into the half, scoring a try near the end of the period.
 
Senior Vili Toluta'u added to the CWU advantage opening the second half scoring with a try, and after the Siemens conversion the Wildcats held a 26-17 lead.  The Vikes responded again, scoring a trying and shaving the CWU lead just four points.
 
Larry Peneueta, who was subbed in after the half, gave the Wildcats some much needed breathing room with a try, pushing the Wildcat lead back to nine.  The Vikes scored and converted on a try late in the game, but could not tally another score as the Wildcats escaped with the 31-29 victory.
 
"It is great to create a bit of momentum heading into next week," Thornley added.  "Now it is time to rest up and prepare for another great challenge ahead."
 
The Wildcats will next get a rematch with Brigham Young University next Friday, Mar. 31 at 1 p.m. in Provo, Utah.