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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The Panthers hosted the Running Eagles of Life University at the DU Turf Field today. This was the second matchup between the two teams this year. The first matchup didn't end well for the Panthers as they lost 48-0 in Georgia in their first contest as a part of Division 1-A Rugby. The score was closer this time, but the result was the same. The final score was 41-24 in Life's favor. The Panthers play next Saturday in Pittsburgh when they face Kutztown University.

The first twenty minutes of the first half was a defensive battle. The score was 12-11 in favor of Life. After that, Life outscored Davenport 17-6 to end the half with a 29-17 lead.

The second half didn't bode well for the Panthers, as they were only able to get one try and missed two penalty kicks. Life was able to tack on 12 more points and secure the win 41-24.

A bright spot for DU was JP Eloff. He was able to score 19 of the Panthers 24 total points. He had one try, was 1-for-2 on conversion attempts, and was 4-of-5 on penalty kicks.

The loss drops the Panthers to 0-4 in the Mid-South Division. They look to end the year with a win next week at Kutztown.

Coach Quotes
Coach Kruger Van Biljon:

“If you look at the score line today, we brought it to Life. We were in the game the whole time, just stupid mistakes cost us points.”

“I think the big difference from this week to last week, is how our attacking average is way up. The guys made tackles this time. But, we still make silly mistakes that cost us points that you can't afford to lose at this level.”

“I think the guys learned a lot this season and we will come back next season and prove that we belong in this league.”

Post-Game Notes

The loss to Life pretty much eliminates them from playoff contention. They finish the season 0-4 in the Mid-South Division. Coach Van Biljon is optimistic however, saying that they have improved all year in their first season as a Division 1-A program.