Axewomen stay unbeaten with win over UPEI

CHARLOTTETOWN — The Acadia Axewomen improved to 2-0 on the season with a 28-14 win over the UPEI Panthers in Atlantic University Sport women's rugby action Saturday.

Fifth-year forward Brielynn Murrant powered Acadia to a fast start, scoring the opening try in the fifth minute. Sarah Gunn added the conversion, the first of her four on the day.

The Axewomen doubled their advantage minutes later. Off a clean lineout, the ball moved wide to Juliette Matsukubo, who broke down the wing for a 30-yard try and a 14-0 lead.

UPEI answered in the 20th minute when Rowan Gallagher finished an offload from Jorja Cook, with Lauren Misener converting to cut the deficit to 14-7.

Acadia restored control four minutes later. Murrant powered over for her second try, and Gunn's kick extended the margin to 21-7, which stood at halftime.

The Panthers pushed back in the second half. Gallagher scored her second try in the 55th minute after linking up with Isabella MacKinnon, and Misener's conversion brought UPEI within 21-14.

The Axewomen's defence held firm the rest of the way. In stoppage time, Jenna Gallant broke through for a late try, with Gunn's fourth conversion sealing the 28-14 victory.

Acadia, the defending AUS champions, remain unbeaten after an opening-week win over Saint Mary's.

The Axewomen return to action Friday, Sept. 19, when they host St. Francis Xavier in their home opener at Raymond Field. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.