Wisconsin and Minnesota are fierce competitors in the game of rugby and today the top-sides from each state battled for a playoff berth in Division I USA rugby action. Wisconsin was represented by the only Division I rugby club in the state, the Milwaukee West Side Harlequins and Division I debutantes.

Metropolis, Minnesota's sole Division I club, travelled from Minneapolis to the Harlequins for the encounter

Metropolis got out to a quick 7-point lead with a converted try in the opening minutes, but the Harlequins turned up the pressure, leveling the score at the 18-minute mark.

The remainder of the half was stop-and-go as the Harlequins received numerous infractions and penalties. Excellent line-out work by Metropolis had the visiting team up 7-14 with the clock reading full-time until a 90-meter try by the Harlequins winger leveled score.

Metropolis opened the second half much as they did the first half by scoring a quick try. A much improved Harlequin side however took control of both line-outs and scrummages and, despite trailing on the scoreline for 38 minutes, traded scoring opportunities with their opponents. With 1 minute remaining on the clock, the Harlequins finally took the lead 31-29 and an upset looked to be in the cards.

Metropolis however were not to be undone without a final push and scored a converted try at the full-time whistle to snatch the win and end the exciting battle 31-36.  

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