Axes and Oars Triumph in Season Opener Against Scribes RFC

Vancouver, BC — The newly merged Vancouver Rowing Club and Squamish AxeWomen, now united under the banner of the Axes and Oars for the 2nd year, kicked off their 2023/24 Women’s Division 2 season with a resounding victory against Scribes RFC on Saturday, September 28, at Rupert Park in East Vancouver.

The sun shone brightly on a perfect day for rugby as the Axes and Oars fielded a robust squad of 21 players, including 12 newcomers eager to make their mark. Right from the whistle, the team showcased their depth and determination.

Full back Coralie Bergeron opened the scoring with a spectacular try, darting to the far corner and putting her team in the lead early on. Just minutes later, inside center Katie Whelan displayed her defensive prowess by intercepting a Scribes pass, sprinting down the pitch to cross the line for her first try of the match. Whelan wasn’t finished there; after a series of strong phases, flanker Maeve Mulhall executed a perfect draw-and-pass to set Whelan up for her second try, solidifying the Axes and Oars’ dominance.

Despite the early pressure, Scribes RFC rallied and managed to score three tries, making the contest more competitive. However, the Axes and Oars responded decisively. Utility back Yinkei Ho crossed the try line to counter Scribes’ scoring streak, bringing the momentum back to the home side.

The final nail in the coffin came in the 75th minute, when new prop Leah Cosgrove powered through the Scribes’ defense for a try that sealed the game, bringing the final score to 25-15 in favor of the Axes and Oars.

With this victory, the Axes and Oars look to build on their momentum as they head to Langley for their next fixture on Saturday, October 5, with a kickoff scheduled for 11:15 AM. Fans will be eager to see how this dynamic new squad continues to develop as the season progresses.

VRC 25 – Scribes 10

Try Scorers

Coralie Bergeron 1 try, Katie Whelan 2 tries, Yinkei Ho 1 Try, Leah Cosgrove 1 try