LONDON, Ont. – The Western Mustangs defeated the Brock Badgers with a 24-3 win on Nov. 7 at the UWO Rugby Fields, advancing the Mustangs into the OUA finals against the Queen’s Gaels on Nov. 14 at Fletcher’s Field in Markham at 2 p.m.

The Mustangs fought hard against the Badgers. Matthew Barrett (Lindsay, Ont.) assisted with a pair of converts for four points, whereas David Jacks (Tottenham, Ont.), Jesse Kliman (Victoria, B.C.), Andrew Crow (Victoria, B.C.) and Conor Wade (London, Ont.) each contributed with a single try. 

Although the Mustangs easily pushed the Badgers back, the win would not have been possible without a solid defence. The win was not without cost.

“Brock played rough and some of the boys got really banged up,” Jacks said.

Despite the physical play, the Mustangs held their ground and prevented their opponents from scoring any tries. The three points scored by Brock resulted from a penalty kick.

Head coach Tony Roes said he was very happy with the results. This will be the first time since he started coaching that the team enters into the finals. While the Mustangs are mentally focused, Roes said he is adamant about picking up practice. 

“The finals will be big for us,” Roes said.

With the semifinal win, the Mustangs advance to compete for the gold medal against the undefeated Gaels. Even though Western previously lost to Queen’s during Homecoming, the Mustangs are prepared to get even.

Jacks continues to lead by example and preaches co-operation for success. 

“There is no individual play, it’s all about team,” Jacks said. 

With the right mentality, the Mustangs will be a tough opponent for the Gaels in the OUA finals.