ESU spoiled La Salle's home opener by besting the Explorers 24-19. The game was sloppy at times, with La Salle controlling possession and territory but unable to convert line breaks and hounded by penalties. ESU brought a potent back triangle to the game and looked to utilize their kicking game early and often. La Salle's inexperience back triangle did well with the kicking game but was unable to cope with the speed out wide during phase play.

The largest rookie class is LSWR's short history has created challenges in the season's early goings. 20 new players have pulled on a LSWR jersey over the course of the last two weeks, joining an already young group of 18 returning players. Coach Kristin Aliberto says the team had I high hopes for recruitment this year but even she was surprised by the huge turnout:

 "Certainly we thought we might start with 15 new players and then go into the first weekend or two with 10 new players. Regardless of the number of new players our plan for these first few weekends was to introduce them to the game, immerse them against live opposition and then adapt our practice plans as necessary. Timely coaching assistance from Alison Floyd (class 09'), Bridget O'Donnell (class of 09'), Ginger Rosen (EPRU U23s) and Lisa Rosen (PWRFC, MARFU U23s) has helped us manage the numbers at practice.  

La Salle will conclude their pre-season schedule when they visit the University of Delaware this Friday night. The teams met twice last year, first in EPRU league play and then in MARFU playoffs. The Explorers dropped both of last year's meetings and know that their final warm up match will certainly be their most challenging. LSWR will continue to be without senior Charne Foston (broken nose) but welcome back sophomore flanker Julia Walsh.