In what some observers said was one of the best D2 college games they had seen, two undefeated teams met in the Southern Rugby Conference, each looking to make a pre-playoff statement.

Both Furman and UNC Charlotte entered the match, with both thinking seriously about challenging for a national title.

See The Men's D2 College Semis And Final Final LIVE on FloRugby Dec 1-2

The 49ers took an early 5-0 lead with an unconverted try after a period of sustained pressure which saw the Paladins stuck behind their own 22 for nearly eight minutes. Although the Paladins defensive effort was mighty eventually the dam had to break. 

Over the next 20 minutes Furman got the upper hand in the battle for territory and possession, as they kept the ball in hand and worked through multiple phases of attack. Their efforts were rewarded with three successful penalty kicks and a converted try for a 16-5 lead.

During the last 12 minutes of the first half the two teams punched and counter-punched. Furman added to their lead with a penalty kick to stretch it to 19-5, but UNCC countered with a converted try to narrow the gap to 19-12. Furman closed out the half and the scoring with a well deserved converted try and a commanding halftime lead of 26-12.

As the second half came to life it was clear to see why UNCC are the current USA National Sevens Champions and defending SRC 15s and sevens Champions. The 49ers struck for four unanswered tries in the span of 12 minutes, tipping the game on its head and turning a 14-point deficit into a 38-26 lead.

Many teams would have capitulated at this point, but Furman rebounded well. The Paladins closed the gap to five points with a converted try around the 60-minute mark. And just seven minutes later they squared it up at 38-38 with an unconverted try. 

See The Men's D2 College Semis And Final Final LIVE on FloRugby Dec 1-2

And there was more drama to come. With four minutes to play UNCC slotted a penalty goal to take a 41-38 lead. With just two minutes left the Paladins tied it up again.

So it came down to the 81st minute. Charlotte had one more attacking opportunity, got a penalty, and put it over.

It was a hugely entertaining 80-plus minutes, and perhaps a preview of the Southern Conference final. Both teams must sure still be in the hunt for a national playoff berth.