POST GAME
CALGARY - In the Canada West Semifinal at McMahon Stadium, the University of Victoria Vikes defeated the University of Lethbridge Pronghorns 36-10. The Horns took an early lead with a try from Charli Helland, but the teams were tied at halftime after Maddy Grant scored for the Vikes. In the second half, Victoria dominated, with Olivia Newsome scoring two tries to push their lead to 22-10. Despite several opportunities, Lethbridge couldn't add to their score. Victoria sealed the victory with tries from Summer Blackmore and Kira Peary. The Pronghorns now shifts focus to the bronze medal game scheduled for Sunday at 3 p.m. against the University of Calgary Dinos. The Vikes will move on to play the UBC Thunderbirds at 5 p.m. at McMahon Stadium.

BREAKDOWN

• The match ended with a decisive score of 36-10 in favor of the Victoria Vikes over the Lethbridge Pronghorns in the Canada West Semifinal held at McMahon Stadium in Calgary. The game showcased a hard-fought battle, especially in the first half, which ended in a tie at 10-10.
• The Horns made an impressive start, opening the scoring when Charli Helland dove across the line for a try in the 18th minute, giving the Pronghorns a 7-0 lead. This early momentum demonstrated their determination and set the tone for a competitive first half.
• The Vikes responded with some tactical adjustments, and after Vanessa Chiappetta and Tory Clements traded penalty goals, Maddy Grant delivered a powerful run to score for the VIkes in the 32nd minute, leveling the match at 10-10 just before halftime. This try showcased the Vikes' ability to penetrate the Horns' defence.
• As the second half commenced, Victoria's attack began to find its groove. Just four minutes in, Olivia Newsome made a spectacular 25-yard run to give the Vikes their first lead of the match. Her agility and speed were crucial in shifting the momentum in favor of Victoria.
• Newsome continued to shine, adding another try in the 53rd minute with a strong 10-yard burst down the sideline, extending the lead to 22-10. This display of offensive prowess highlighted Victoria's ability to adapt and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
• Although the Pronghorns fought hard and pushed deep into Victoria's territory on several occasions, they struggled to convert their chances into points. The Vikes' defense held firm, stifling the Pronghorns' attempts to close the gap.
• As the match neared its conclusion, Victoria further solidified their victory with a well-executed play that allowed Summer Blackmore to score in the 73rd minute. Kira Peary capped off the scoring with an insurance try in the 80th minute, sealing the 36-10 outcome.
• Post-match, Lethbridge head coach Graeme Moffat expressed pride in his team's effort, stating, "I'm really proud of our effort. We know that Victoria are a very talented team and they have a lot of firepower behind their scrum. I thought after the first 40 minutes we played really well. And then obviously the Vikes managed the conditions in the second half." He further acknowledged Maddy Grant's kicking prowess, noting, "Maddy Grant has a massive boot. She put the ball behind us well and we had to work incredibly hard to get out of our own half."
• Looking ahead, Moffat emphasized the need to regroup, saying, "Overall, I'm really proud of our effort. There are things in our performance that are really pleasing and now we have to prep and build for Sunday."

NEXT UP
The Pronghorns are set to focus on the bronze medal match scheduled for Sunday, October 20 at 3 p.m. This will be followed by the Canada West Championship at 5 p.m., where they aim to build on their experiences and finish the season strong. Don't miss the action on canadawest.tv!

SCORING SUMMARY

                1          2           F
LET         10        0          10
VIC        10         26         36
 
First Half
18' LET – Charli Helland try (Tory Clements convert) – 7-0 LET
21' VIC – Vanessa Chiappetta penalty goal – 7-3 LET
27' LET – Tory Clements penalty goal – 10-3 LET
32' VIC – Maddy Grant try (Vanessa Chiappetta convert) – 10-10
 
Second Half
44' VIC – Olivia Newsome try (Vanessa Chiappetta convert) – 17-10 VIC
53' VIC – Olivia Newsome try (convert unsuccessful) – 22-10 VIC
73' VIC – Summer Blackmore try (Vanessa Chiappetta convert) – 29-10 VIC
80' VIC – Kira Peary try (Vanessa Chiappetta convert) – 36-10 VIC