The ISU women’s rugby team started its season with two convincing shutout victories Saturday.

With some new faces added to the veteran lineup, Iowa State defeated Des Moines women’s rugby 24-0, and Luther College 45-0.

“It was a great game for the newbies,” said scrum-half Julie Freese. “They came out stronger than expected with everybody playing new positions.”

Iowa State got out to a slow start in the first half against Des Moines, scoring only once on a try by fullback Jessica Nanke.

However, the team soon found its rhythm and went on to dominate in the second half. Iowa State scored three more times, with fly-half Ashley Cleveland kicking for two conversions.

The second game, against Luther, was even more lopsided. Iowa State jumped out to a quick lead with another try by Nanke, and inside center Amanda Rolling soon added another.

Iowa State didn’t stop until it put up 45 points. Cleveland led the scoring drive against Luther with 20 points, scoring two tries and kicking for five conversions.

“We played very well together,” Rolling said. “Usually, it’s scrappy.”

Playing in her first rugby game, freshman outside center Liz Madrigal was a standout against Des Moines, scoring late in the second half.

Saturday’s two games proved that the new team is ready for the season. To advance to the postseason, however, Iowa State must win one of its two league games, which will be played in October against St. Cloud State University and the University of Northern Iowa

Annual adversary the University of Northern Iowa is again set to be Iowa State’s main competition. Last year, the Cyclones placed third in the Midwest. This year, their sights are set on the national tournament.

Coach Sara Hillebrand is a former UNI and U.S. National Rugby Team player.

“It looks to be a really good season,” Hillebrand said. “I don’t see us stopping ’til we get to nationals.”

ISU women’s next game is Friday in Iowa City against the Hawkeyes.