For the first time since it was established in2013, the Women's Collegiate Division II Capital Conference will see a different set of finalists. In its first 3 years of existence, the finals saw Mary Washington versus Salisbury, with Mary Washington winning the first two meetings. Due to a slow start by both Mary Washington and Salisbury, the teams were seeded #2 and #7 respectively, with Salisbury having to travel to Fredericksburg on Oct 29, 2016 for the quarterfinals showdown.
The game started quickly for Mary Washington. Within twenty minutes UMW was leading 17-0 with tries from Bernice Kear ('18), Ebony Clarke ('17), and Jenn Moreland ('17). Either Mary Washington relaxed or Salisbury found their momentum. In the next 20 minutes of play, Salisbury scored three times to Mary Washington's lone score (Bernice Kear). At halftime, Mary Washington was clinging to a one try lead, 22-17.
Salisbury continue their momentum in the start of the second half, scoring within a few minutes, erasing Mary Washington's 17 point lead and trying the game at 22-22. The next twenty minutes both sides played intense rugby, Salisbury seeing the chance to slip ahead of their yearly rival and Mary Washing seeing their quick lead erased.
With the game winding down, Mary Washington began to gain the upper hand. It appeared their fitness was beginning to show. With 13 minutes to play, Bernice Kear scored again for Mary Washington, as they converted the try and pulled ahead 29-22. The blow was difficult for Salisbury as their control of the game was beginning to fade. Just five minutes later Bernice Kear scored her forth try of the match.
In the final 8 minutes of play, despite Salisbury's finals efforts, they were unable to capitalize on any more scoring opportunities. Mary Washington went on to win their Capital Conference Quarterfinals match 36-22.
Kicking three conversions for Mary Washington was Jackie Sherman ('17).
Additional Capital Conference Quarterfinal scores from the day include:
Towson 88 - American 22
Old Dominion 78 - George Mason 10
George Washington 27- UMBC 12
Nov 5 & 6 marks the fourth consecutive year Mary Washington will host the Capital Conference Semifinals and Finals. Match ups are:
Mary Washington v George Washington
Towson v Old Dominion