Buena Vista, VA – The Southern Virginia University rugby team faced a tough challenge on Saturday, taking on one of the nation's top programs, No. 3 Life University, and falling 19–59 in a physical, high-tempo match.

Life opened the scoring early with a try in the sixth minute (conversion missed) and added another in the 12th to take a 12–0 lead despite strong defensive stands from the Knights near the goal line.

Southern Virginia began to find its rhythm midway through the first half. After several exchanges in the scrums and contested kicks, Weston Memmott broke through the defense with a powerful run, setting up John Mann, who punched in the Knights' first try. The successful conversion cut the deficit to 7–12.

Life answered with another converted try to extend the lead to 19–7, but the Knights struck right back as Saveaalii Fitisemanu powered through multiple tacklers for Southern Virginia's second try. The Knights' physical play at the breakdowns and steady offloads sent them into halftime trailing just 14–19.

The second half saw Life University display their depth and pace, capitalizing on turnovers to string together multiple tries. The Knights continued to battle, and in the 57th minute, Malakai Volavola and Mann combined for a brilliant sequence down the sideline—trading passes before Mann crossed the line for his second try of the match.

Despite their effort, the Knights couldn't slow the Eagles' attack down the stretch, with the final score reading 19–59.

Southern Virginia now looks to regroup as they hit the road next weekend to face Mount St. Mary's University in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

For the latest updates on Southern Virginia University Rugby, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knight_rugby on Instagram.