BYU edged Central Washington in women's rugby, 20-17, on Saturday in Provo, Utah.
 
The Cougars clipped the Wildcats at the final whistle by putting over a penalty kick from in front of the posts as time expired. The penalty count was the deciding factor in what was an aggressive game on both sides. 
 
"Full credit to Coach Waqa and the BYU team," CWU head coach Matthew Ramirez said. "They capitalized on our mistakes and took a nail-biter of a game. I need to improve preparing a young team on playing in the right parts of the field and putting pressure on the opponent."
 
Haley Abeyta continued her physical presence this season going over the line for the first try of the season in the 24th minute. Kai Brandt-Templeton made the conversion from the sideline to see the Wildcats go up 7-0. 
 
Noelle Inverso answered a BYU penalty kick with a try of her own to go up 12-3 at half. Then came the penalties. 
 
After a yellow card saw CWU go down to 14 players, the aggressive Wildcat defense did all they could and kept the score at 12-17 to BYU. That's when MaryJane Pasioles saw space behind BYU's line and put a kick that set up perfect for wing Sammy Stern to tie the game at 17. 
 
After multiple chances and line breaks by Haley Abeyta and Keia Mae Sagapolu, the final play went to BYU who capitalized on a penalty once again to take the game 17-20. 
 
"We had some moments, and some amazing efforts by some Wildcats that were inspiring to us all," Ramirez said. "Our entire front row stepped up and the skill and talent of Keia Mae Sagapolu, Tessa Hann, Haley Abeyta, MaryJane Pasioles and Zonaye Tupuola need to be recognized. I'm just gutted we couldn't get that win. However, we know this might be the best thing to happen early on in our season. It's time to get better."
 
The Wildcats next face Lindenwood, 3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 30 in St. Charles, Mo.