Match Recap: Vikings Finish the Regular Season Strong vs UO

Western Washington University Men’s Rugby capped off the regular season in impressive fashion on Saturday, earning a commanding 54–12 home victory over the University of Oregon in front of its home supporters.

The Vikings delivered a complete performance from start to finish, controlling the pace of play and asserting themselves in every phase of the match. From the opening whistle, Western set the tone with physicality, discipline, and attacking intent, putting together one of its most comprehensive performances of the season. The result reflected the team’s growth, depth, and confidence as the postseason now comes into view.

It was a strong day across the entire program, as WWU’s B-side also delivered an impressive result, defeating Oregon 59–17. The performance highlighted the depth that has become a defining strength of the Vikings this season, with players across the roster continuing to step up and contribute in meaningful ways.

Saturday’s match also carried special meaning for the program, as it marked a final home game for several key senior leaders who have helped shape the current era of WWU Rugby.

Gabe Galvez, the club’s two-year president and current Clubman of the Year, earned the start at scrumhalf in what was his final home match for the Vikings. A respected leader and steady presence within the program, Galvez’s start was a fitting recognition of the impact he has made both on and off the field during his time at Western.

The day also honored Eli Ashmann in his final home match as a senior. Though Ashmann was unable to take the field due to injury, his legacy within the program is firmly established. One of the most prolific players in club history, he leaves his mark as the career try leader for WWU Rugby with more than 100 tries recorded, a remarkable accomplishment that speaks to both his consistency and game-breaking ability over the course of his career.

Another senior recognized on the day was Harry Moore, the Stalwart captain of the Vikings and one of the foundational leaders behind the program’s recent success. Moore has helped guide WWU Rugby to the national quarterfinals in every season of his career, while also playing an integral role in the team’s back-to-back conference titles. His leadership, toughness, and commitment have been central to the standard Western has built in recent years.

Lastly, this match also marked the last home game for senior Liam Walsh. As another Stalwart captain of the Vikings, Walsh shows immense dedication and support for the WWU Men's Rugby program. Walsh has been a great example of what it means to be a WWU Men's Rugby Vikings, on and off the pitch.

WWU’s ability to dominate across the field was evident throughout the afternoon, as the Vikings consistently won key battles in possession, territory, and execution. Whether in open play or at the set piece, Western dictated the tempo and never allowed Oregon to gain sustained momentum, ultimately closing out the regular season with a statement victory.

“Fantastic way to finish the regular season!” said Head Coach Adam Roberts. “The boys had a comprehensive game and dominated all facets of the game!”

The regular season finish also put an exclamation point on a remarkable NCRC campaign, with Western completing conference play at a perfect 8–0 while outscoring opponents by a staggering 438–57. The numbers reflect not only the Vikings’ attacking firepower, but also the defensive standard and consistency they have maintained throughout the season.

The win gives Western valuable momentum heading into its next major challenge on April 11, when the Vikings will continue their postseason journey with another important test ahead.

“Very much looking forward to our game on April 11th,” Roberts added.

Saturday’s match also served as the perfect lead-in to a major evening for the program, as supporters, alumni, and friends of WWU Rugby gathered later that night for the Blue & White Dinner Auction, which began at 5:30 PM. Following a dominant performance on the field, the event provided an opportunity for the broader WWU Rugby community to come together and celebrate the continued growth and success of the program.

With the regular season now complete, the Vikings turn their full focus toward the next phase—carrying strong form, growing belief, and momentum into what lies ahead.