After losing two close games to Life University in the Mid-South Conference back in March, the Lions were hoping for a different outcome in the third meeting of the season, a semifinal match in the USA Rugby D1A Playoffs in Marietta, Ga., Saturday afternoon, but the Running Eagles showed why they're the top squad in the country with a 43-14 victory.  The outcome marked the second straight season that Lindenwood was ousted just shy of the finals, and by the number one ranked team. 

It was a close battle early in the contest with only one score in the first 25 minutes, a try and conversion by Life at the eight minute mark.  As the half unfolded, the Running Eagles started to pull away, adding another score under the posts in the 27^th minute and another try six minutes after. 

Trailing 21-0 as the second half began, the Lions tried to get the offense going, but stiff defense and good passing put Life on the board again in the 53^rd minute.  Lindenwood finally broke the shutout three minutes later when Tom O'Connor offloaded to Gabe Farley for a score, making it 26-7.  With some positive momentum, the Lions were able to get a clean ball after a midfield scrum moments later.  Mickey Bateman stepped inside, burned the defenders, and dove over the line to pull Lindenwood within 12 at the 60 minute mark, but that would be as close as the Lions would get.  The Running Eagles added a penalty kick and two more tries, the final score coming with just two minute remaining. 

The loss dropped Lindenwood to 9-6-1 overall, and ended the 15's season for the team, however there is still 7's competition on the calendar.  The Lions will travel to Denver, Colo., for the USA Rugby National 7's Championship May 23-24.