Wheeling, W. VA. - Through their first two games of the season, the Wheeling University Rugby team (2-0) has been taking it to their opponents, scoring a combined 126 points against Franciscan University and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. They are now set to bring their high-powered offense to Bishop Schmitt Field as they welcome in West Virginia University on Saturday at 6 PM.
Last time out, they took on IUP and scored a 45-10 win, not allowing any tries until the second half. They had a 22-3 lead at halftime and were led by a big day from sophomore Ayoub Jalli (Casablanca, Morroco/Yassmine Oasis). Jalli scored two tries on the day as well as converting three conversion kicks, and two penalty kicks on the day. He leads the team with 11 conversion kicks this season and scored his first two tries of the season in the effort.
In total, four different players scored tries in the game, and two different Cardinals scored two tries. Along with Jalli, Mohammed Haddar (Marrakech, Morroco/Les Printemps) added two more tries this season and now leads the team with six tries in two games played. The offense has shown an ability to spread the ball around, and it has shown in the stat board this season. At least four different players have scored tries in each of the first two games and it has led to two straight wins to start the season.
Now, Wheeling returns home for the first time in the Fall of 2021 after going 6-0 at Bishop Schmitt Field in the spring. West Virginia University is another big physical team, and Wheeling is going to have to continue to be tough. Head Coach Mike Geibel has faith they can keep this up, after facing a very physical opponent in IUP last week.
"We're excited to play at home and get the first 15s match in a few years in front of our home fans, " said Geibel. " This week, we went to Steenrod Elementary School to teach them flag rugby and invited them out to the game. We want to get the community involved and out to watch us play."
The History
The Cardinals and Mountaineers have met in the Mountain State Showdown six times, with Wheeling going 5-1 in those games. However, their last official meeting was on September 30^th, 2016. Wheeling has won four straight matches against WVU and is looking to make their home opener the fifth win in a row.
In their last meeting, Wheeling came out on top 72-12 at Bishop Schmitt Field. Former Cardinal Allan Hanson opened the scoring and led the Cardinals with four conversion kicks and a penalty kick in the win. With Wheeling's offense clicking on all cylinders again this year, they are looking for similar success.
The Details
Kick-off for Saturday's game is scheduled for 6 PM at Bishop Schmitt Field. You can watch the game live or follow along with Live Stats right here at WUCARDINALS.COM.