CHICAGO - On the scoreboard, it has been a difficult season for the Iowa Central rugby team.

But that is only half of the battle the players have fought.

The Tritons took on Big Ten power Indiana here Saturday in a pair of matches, coming up short in the A-side match, 40-29, and the B-side, 28-14. In both, though, Iowa Central put together strong second halves to narrow the deficits.

"We made some adjustments and played much better after the half," Iowa Central head coach Brent Nelson said. "It's been a tough year, and for all of these kids to show that heart and determination by not quitting on each other, I'm so proud of that.

"But honestly, that's just how this group is. They overcome. We've had four different kids lose a parent during this season, and another an aunt. In all my years around sports, I've never heard of so much tragedy around one team. These kids continue to come out day in and day out and play for each other. It's hard to put into words what they are willing to go through for each other, the program and to keep this season moving forward despite the losses.

"It really breaks your heart as a coach."

In the A-side match, Herbert Evans had two tries with Philip Woodhouse and Zavier Ellis each recording a try. Harrison Dalton was 3-for-4 on conversion kicks and 1-for-1 on penalty kicks.

"Herbert played a really good match on both offense and defense," Nelson said. "Hugo Minnaar handled the ball well and was really steady for us, and Lane Pruisner just had another great match."

Graeme Webster and Dre'Von Strickland each had a try with Webster making a conversion kick and Oratile Molatlhegi a penalty kick.

"Dre'Von is a kid I've been recruiting since he was a sophomore at Des Moines Roosevelt," Nelson said. "He's a good kid and has only played 7s before, but he's working hard to understand the 15s game."

Iowa Central plays for the final time next Saturday when they host Iowa State at Crimmins Field.

-By Dana Becker