MOHAWK 28, CONESTOGA 10

Stand-off Greg Wise scored two tries, while scrum-half Stephen Lewis had a try and four converts as Mohawk opened its 2016 Ontario Colleges Athletic Association men's rugby season with a 28-10 away win over Conestoga on Sunday.

The Mountaineers jumped into a 21-0 lead on first half tries by the newcomer Wise and the returning Lewis, who converted all three, including two on long and difficult kicks. Wise got his second try at the 30 minute mark, with Lewis making the kick again.

Near the end of the half a number of penalties and miscues led to Conestoga moving up the field and despite a strong defensive effort by the Mountaineers at the goal line, the Condors scored at the end of the half and trailed 21-5 after 40 minutes.

The start of the second half was a tussle, with both teams being competitive around the middle of the field, until the 60 minute mark when Ray Zange-Eva broke a couple of tackles and ran in to score with Lewis again converting.

Conestoga got a consolation try at 75 minutes to bring the final to Mohawk 28 and Conestoga 10.

"We had only six players returning from last year, but played well against a bigger Conestoga team," said Mountaineers head coach Bill Stuart. "I think we were just a bit quicker and were able to hold onto the ball a bit better than the opposition. A good new connection between Lewis and Wise led to a lot of good ball out to the backs."

Stuart said his team did well in scrums but needs work on tackling and rucking.

Mohawk's first home game is Saturday versus Seneca at Mohawk Sports Park. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m.

Source: Mohawk College