It was a tale of two halves in Saturday’s game between NIU’s men’s rugby and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Panthers.

The Huskies got off to a good start against the Panthers, leading 22-5 at halftime.

The second 45 minutes was a different story. The Panthers started the second half on a 26-0 scoring run, which gave them a 31-22 lead over the Huskies. NIU responded with a late try, making the score 31-27. The Huskies were unable to get any closer falling to the Panthers by that same 31-27 score.

The loss means the Huskies will no longer be going to the USA Rugby National Tournament at the end of April. Due to an obscure rule, the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee was able to challenge the Huskies to a game and the winner would then go to nationals.

“It says that the third-place team, if they have not played the second-place team at any time, or if they’ve had no common opponents,” said Jim Graber, NIU rugby coach, said. “They are allowed to challenge for the second-place title.”

Graeber said one thing changed in the second half that let the Panthers back in the game.

“I think we relaxed a bit too much,” Graber said. “They got some momentum and we got back on our heels and weren’t able to regain our momentum back.”

Rugby president Pat Kathan said the team can rebound following its tough loss.

“Well, we’re a positive team,” Kathan said, “We’ve been through some tough stuff before. We stuck it out and stayed together. So, just stick with each other and try and get through this and play hard in the next game and try and get better.”

A representative from Wisconsin-Milwaukee was unavailable for comment following the game.