ELLENSBURG, Wash. - On a chilly, fall day at Tomlinson Stadium, the Central Washington University women's rugby team dropped their home opener to the reigning national champions, the Lindenwood Lionesses, 15-33.
 
"Congrats to Lindenwood for the great match," Head Coach Matthew Ramirez said. "Definitely a physical contest from the get and some quality moments of top tier rugby. It's just nailing the little things which we touched on all week. There's still one too many missed tackles out there, but it highlights the area of what we need to improve going forward. It's just time to dig into the film, self-reflect from the top down, and have the belief and drive to finish this season the way we know we can."
 
Lindenwood traveled to Ellensburg as the reigning D1 Elite National Champions. The Lionesses hadn't lost since Feb. 28, 2020, when LU lost to Oregon State 10-17 in the LAI Sevens Tournament.
 
The Lionesses got out to a hot start, squashing most offensive opportunities for the 'Cats. At the half, the Crimson and Black were down 3-19.
 
"We just had another honest conversation at the half about changing what we can control. We made a few substitutions and are starting to build the depth that we need that will beneficial going forward," Coach Ramirez said. "The way this team has trusted the process and bought in to holding themselves accountable and been a joy to see this season."
 
In the second half, the Wildcats offense started to find some momentum. Tessa Hann had a big day for the 'Cats, scoring both tries as the team put up 12 points in the second half.
 
Unfortunately, Lindenwood was able to keep their offensive production moving, scoring 14 points of their own in the second half. The 15-33 final score was one of the closest matches the Lions have played this season.
 
"There were some gutsy performances out there today. Tessa Hann is proving that she is in top form this season and her performance today was no exception. Keia Mae Sagapolu is an absolute warrior in all phases of the game. It was great to see Maddie Hadden making plays a driving the attack round the field and sneak through with a sneaky pick on the weakside off a scrum. Two young players that are showing what it truly means to play with grit and determination are Ellie Frost and Jessica Postle," Coach Ramirez said.
 
Next weekend, the Wildcats (3-2) will battle against Boise State at Tomlinson Stadium at Tomlinson Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 29, at 11:00 a.m.