CHARLOTTE, N.C --- The Queens University of Charlotte women's rugby team shined Sunday as they beat the Penn State Nittany Lions, 41-19, at home.

"Today's win over Penn State is a true testament to the effort the team has been putting in at training every day," said Queens Head Women's Rugby Coach Dana Meschisi. 

The game was played at the Charlotte Rugby Club after Queens and Penn State had to make last-minute schedule changes. "We're lucky to have the support of our local Charlotte Rugby Club to provide us with an alternative grass field," said Meschisi. 

The Royals started with the lead scoring the first eight points in the game before Penn State took control midway through the second half,19-15. However, their lead would be short-lived as the Royals continued putting points on the board while holding Penn State out of the try zone for the rest of the game. Queens closed on a 26-4 run to solidify their win.

Senior Alle English had two conversions, one penalty kick, and one try. Sophomore Maddie Hughes scored a penalty kick, try, and had a conversion as well. Marley Wiley, Jenna Klenz, and Salome Schmitt each had one try. 

"Our opponent really tested our set piece techniques and forced us to commit to tackles," Meschisi added. "I was also happy to see that we cleaned up our breakdown area since last weekend. There's plenty of work still to do, but I believe yesterday was a great momentum builder to officially start our 15s season."

The Royals will look to keep winning as they host a junior varsity 7s matchup against Newberry College on Saturday, Sept. 24 at noon at the Queens Sports Complex.