The Kent State women’s rugby team heads to Bowling Green to take on its conference rival Oct. 4, in hopes of continuing strong fundamental play.

“Right now we’re working hard to drill the fundamentals and sweep the next three teams on our schedule,” said captain Sarah Giachetti. “Our ball movement against (Pittsburgh) definitely improved from week one and we will continue to drive that home at practice.”

The Flashes’ (1-1) first two games of the season — on the road against Notre Dame College and the University of Pittsburgh — were non-conference opponents. Now they face three straight MAC opponents that know the Flashes well.

“We prepare for a MAC match just like any other match, but we go into the actual game with a different attitude,” said head coach Jeff Horton. “We know there is a big target on our back and are also aware that we need to (play our best) in order to walk away with a victory.”

The Flashes beat the Falcons two times last year. Once in the fall, 66-5, and 20-0 in the spring.

“Although we have had recent success against the Falcons, they are definitely a strong-minded club,” Horton said. “That is always a dangerous trait for any opponent to possess.”

The team has high expectations for itself, as its reputation has risen over the past few seasons. Giachetti said this is something the Flashes intend to back up.

“One difference between this game and the last two is that this time we have our reputation to uphold,” Giachetti said. “We’ve been MAC champions for the past two seasons and we won’t be happy with anything less than that.”

Kyle Samec is a sports reporter for the Kent Stater. Contact him at [email protected].