The National Intercollegiate Rugby Association (NIRA) women's varsity league got a shakeup this weekend as Dartmouth defeated two-time NIRA champs Quinnipiac 22-17 at Brophy Field in Hanover, NH.

Dartmouth was coming off an impressive scrimmage win over Penn State, and with a talented returned corps, felt they had a shot.

“Our core of veteran players has been playing together for three years now," said Dartmouth Head Coach Katie Dowty. "They know our systems and have a high level of game understanding, which allows us to manage the game strategically and make good on-field decisions. Our experienced players have also been able to integrate our exciting incoming class of players very quickly.” 

Dartmouth burst out with two tries from MA Sorensen Award finalist Fankie Sands and a try from USA 7s player Lilly Durbin for a 15-0 halftime lead. 

Quinnipiac, no surprise, came back with a try from Emily Roskopf to make it 15-7. But on the restart, Dartmouth re-exerted pressure with its forward pack and Idia Ihensehkien powered over, and Kat Ramage converted to make it 22-7.

Flora Poole and Tayler Schussler touched down for Quinnipiac, but the Bobcats couldn't get any closer.

“We are thrilled with the win of course, but eager to keep improving,” said Dowtoy. “There were areas of the game that we dominated today, but we also learned some valuable lessons – particularly on managing our penalty count – that we'll be keen to improve upon moving forward. More than anything, we know we are just starting to unlock our potential this season and can't wait to keep raising the standard of rugby we play.