READING, Pa.- The Queens University of Charlotte men's rugby team, ranked third nationally, faced No .2 Penn State in the semifinal round of the NCR Collegiate Rugby Championship, falling narrowly to the Nittany Lions by a score of 32-31. 

Queens found itself in the try zone looking for the go-ahead score late in the game, but Penn State's defense would be too much to overcome in the closing seconds of the match as they fell in the heartbreaker cutting their quest to repeat as national champions short.

Tertius Dietrechsen led the Royals with two tries in the match while Thomas Keay, Doyle Hedgepeth, and Marshall Frank each scored one try. Hilton Olivier recorded three conversions.

Today's loss brings the Royals' first DI fall season to a close. The Royals moved up to DI and to the Chesapeake Conference this year after winning the DII national championship in 2019. 

Be sure to follow the Royals on Instagram @qumensrugby for the latest news and updates surrounding the men's rugby team. Fans are also encouraged to follow the Royals on all social media platforms @QueensAthletics for the latest news and updates surrounding Queens Athletics.