Wild Result for Davenport vs Wheeling
Wild Result for Davenport vs Wheeling
In a wild game with a wild result, Davenport University edged Wheeling University in an 85-point classic 43-42.
"It was a great second game for us," said Davenport Head Coach Dustin Steedman. "It was honestly a tale of two different styles of play. Wheeling have a lot of speed and had a great transition game. where we allowed them the space behind us with narrow D and a quick launch. We could have helped ourselves by playing a bit softer keeping them in front of us. Lesson learned!"
"This was a really good matchup," added Wheeling Head Coach Mike Geibel, "it was a dog fight for all 80 minutes. I was happy to get to test ourselves early against a very good team. We jumped out to a lead quickly, which I wasn’t expecting, but Davenport did well to stay in it and claw back. Much like they felt last time we played."
Joe Bennie was the player of the game for Davenport, along with captain Saul Pitout. Bennie was an attacking force in the backs and Pitout carried well and was outstanding defensively, but also organized the rest of the team.
Graham Wynner was perfect on the day with his goalkicking.
"Davenport played what was in front of them and came out with the win," added Geibel. "Ultimately we got out of the match what we wanted, which was to test ourselves against a strong opponent and see what we need to shore up before getting into conference play. Would have been nice to get the W but I think we’ll try to make this match somewhat regularly scheduled every year so we’ll have more chances."
"We played a more technical attack game where our set pieces seemed to give Wheeling hard time," added Steedman. "The scrums and lineouts were executed fairly well and the backs responded by getting us on the front foot more times than not. Regardless, there was obviously a lot of back and forth. Wheeling came out quickly capitalizing on a couple of early mistakes in the tackle area. Nontheless we showed great character throughout the game with a come from behind victory. The boys showed great character throughout the game."
