The Gryphons came out strong against a young Western side on a gorgeous Saturday afternoon (Sept. 17) and defeated the Mustangs 100-5 in London.  

Within two minutes of the game Guelph was on the scoreboard with an excellent team try. The focus this game was improving the execution of plays during phase play and attacking the opposition at their weakest points.  Western showed great defence in the breakdown and their secondary line of defence, often stopping the runaway try scorers.  Guelph had to work hard for each of their 15 tries and it took all hands to cross the try line.  

With few handling errors, Guelph looked potent at every aspect of attack.  Western's lone try came from a poor decision off a midfield ruck.  The Gryphons were disappointed at letting any team on the scoreboard.   

With increased vigour, Guelph earned tries from captain Caitlin Beaton (2 tries), Morganne Linthwaite (1 try), Stephanie de Vries (1 try), rookie Brittany Priddle (1 try), 2010 CIS Player of the Year Jacey Murphy (3 tries), Marielle Lehoux (1 try), Stephanie Tibelius (1 try, 11 converts, 1 PG for 30 points), Brittany Sammut (1 try), Mary-Jane Kirby (2 tries), Benn (1 try) and rookie Daria Keane (1 try).   

Although the offensive attack was exceptional, Guelph's defence was ferocious.  Morganne Linthwaite punished Western every time they touched the ball and Steph DeVries took down anyone left standing.  The centres Benn, Kirby and substitutes Christina McTavish and Bethany Chekay in the back line were fantastic in their double tackles to create turnover opportunities.   

All seven substitutions were used again in this game and each one just elevated the Gryphon play from fresh legs and a desire to win.   

Up next the Gryphons will host their home opener next Saturday (Sept. 24) against the Waterloo Warriors at 1:00 p.m.