CHARLOTTE, N.C. – In a battle between two top-10 NCR programs, Queens University of Charlotte capped off its final home match of the season, and Senior Night,with a hard-fought 33-26 victory over sixth-ranked Thomas More. The fifth-ranked Royals showcased grit, composure, and defensive toughness to close out their home campaign on a high note.

The highly anticipated matchup lived up to its billing from the opening whistle. Queens struck first after some crisp interplay between the forwards and backs, freeing up Gideon Wessels, who dotted down in the corner. Zach Colson slotted the conversion to give the Royals an early 7-0 lead.

Thomas More responded immediately with a try of their own to cut the deficit to 7-5, and moments later, capitalized on a penalty deep in Queens territory. Opting for the corner, the Saints executed a clinical maul off the lineout to take a 12-7 advantage.
The Royals wasted no time answering back. After a well-placed kickoff from Colson put Thomas More under pressure, Queens regained possession and marched upfield. A quick-tap penalty by Colson caught the Saints' defense off guard, allowing John Steel to cross the line and tie the game at 12-12.

Thomas More would again reclaim the lead, scoring off the ensuing kickoff to make it 19-12. But Queens surged before halftime, finding another gear offensively. Colson added a try of his own, followed by a strong finish from Landon Starnes, pushing the Royals ahead 26-19 at the break.

The second half turned into a defensive grind, with both sides tightening up after a free-flowing opening forty. Each team managed just one try in the final period, with Queens' physical defense shining brightest in the closing moments. The Royals sealed the win with a massive goal-line stand, holding up a Thomas More runner as time expired to preserve the 33-26 victory.

It was a fitting finish to Senior Night, a showcase of determination, teamwork, and resilience. The Royals' seniors were celebrated for their leadership and impact on the program, leaving their home field one final time as winners.

With the victory, Queens remains in third place in conference standings but continues to battle for a spot in the conference championship. The Royals will now hit the road for their final two regular-season matches, beginning next Saturday when they travel to face Kutztown University in a crucial conference matchup.