ELLENSBURG, Wash.—Central Washington men's rugby continues its early season slate when the Wildcats visit Western Washington, 1 p.m., Saturday at Harrington Field in Bellingham.
 
The Wildcats (1-0) opened the 2022 season last weekend with a 26-24 victory at Seattle Rugby Club. Campbell Robb, Albert O'Shannessey, Cam Nelson and Noah Wright all had tries for the Wildcats, and CWU was able to secure the victory when Seattle's penalty kick attempt banged off the upright as time expired.
 
"We are excited to take on our rival with a very inexperienced team and expect a massive test on Saturday for our young players," CWU head coach Todd Thornley said. "There were multiple key areas of our game that we have worked hard on this week after an inconsistent performance last week. If we can work harder for each other on both sides of the ball this week, then we have a chance of getting a favorable outcome. I'm looking forward to seeing more of our freshman make their Wildcat debut this Saturday." 
 
While the Wildcats were playing the Saracens, Western Washington has been on the sidelines. The Vikings haven't played since November as CoVID restrictions and schedule reshuffling have interfered with their ability to take the pitch. WWU did go 6-0 during the fall season.
 
Historically speaking the Wildcats are 6-0 all-time against the Vikings. Friday's fixture is the first between the teams since Jan. 25, 2020, a 66-3 CWU victory in Bellingham.

For in-game updates be sure to follow our Twitter account @CWURugby