On September 24, the UMW Women's Rugby team hosted Howard University.  It was the first ever meeting between the two teams.  Coaching Howard University was former UMW Women's Rugby player Katherine Aversano ('04).

On the opening kickoff UMW advanced the ball downfield.  Although they maintained most of the possession in the first few minutes, a turnover resulted in a lengthy run and try by Howard.  On the following kickoff, less than two minutes later, Howard returned the ball to go up 10-0.  As the half continued, the UMW defense was caught out of position a number of times.  Combined with Howard's hard charging runs and missed UMW tackles, Howard scored against UMW in numerous break away runs.  UMW brought the ball within 5 meters of the goal several times in the half, and even in goal once, but they were unable to capitalize.  A scoring opportunity was presented to UMW when a Howard player committed a penalty in front of their own goal.  UMW opted for the penalty kick instead of choosing an open field play.  At the 40 minute mark, the penalty kick was converted by flyhalf Kayla Zegada, closing the half with a 34-3 Howard lead.

In the second half, the UMW offense continued their struggles.  While they often advanced the ball down the field, miscues in the rucks and mauls gave the ball back to Howard.  Like the first half, Howard continued to break a number of tackles, often running 60 or 70 meters for the try.  When the final whistle blew, the score was in 56-3 in favor of Howard.

On Oct 1, Mary Washington will host the College of William & Mary.