The Brock women's rugby team rallied to overcome the undefeated York Lions in the OUA quarter-finals by a score of 19-15 at Brock Alumni Field on Friday night.

The Badgers knocked the Lions out of the first round of the postseason for a second consecutive year.

"The positive tone around this team since Day 1 has been overwhelming," said head coach Mark Smerdon. "Our leaders step up when things aren't going perfectly well."

York kept Brock pinned in their zone for most of the first half and led 5-0 at halftime.

Despite being down to 14 players with 10 minutes remaining in the first, the Badgers repeatedly stunned York at the goal line to deny any tries.

"The composure was incredible and they played some amazing defence," said Smerdon. "That itself was a moral victory going into halftime, so when we got the player back then it was 'okay here we go'. The spirits were up even though we were down."

Senior outside Niamh Haughey opened the second half by scorching the field for a game-breaking try to put the Badgers in the lead as Daniella Michaud registered the convert.

It was Haughey's first try since returning from injury.

"Niamh is a great leader who knows the game and you won't find a stronger athlete," said Smerdon. "She's confident and nothing seems to phase her. She's good at getting the girls up again and keeping that positive tone on the pitch."

Loramhel Mateo and Miia Sorra registered back-to-back tries to seal the deal for Brock. Michaud added another convert.

For York, Faith Williams and Michela Stratton each notched a try.

Up next, the Badgers will travel to Kingston to meet the No. 1-ranked team in the country, the Queen's Golden Gaels, on Saturday, Oct. 12.