The US Naval Academy men’s team handed Clemson a 39-25 defeat Saturday in the opening game of 2015 for both teams.

The game was tight throughout, with the score deadlocked at 20-20 at halftime. The teams alternated scored throughout the first 40. Navy took a 20-12 lead, but continued to get into penalty trouble, and that led to Aaron Keers kicking a penalty and then James Rogers scored a try to tie the game.

In the second half, both teams used their subs bench as they wanted to test players. The Navy bench was a little stronger.

“I am very pleased with how the young guys stepped up,” said Navy Head Coach Mike Flanagan. 

Still, the veterans weren’t bad, either. Jack McAuliffe was very strong at flyhalf, while Ron Helms scored two tries. 

“It was a good result and a good chance to blood some players,” said Flanagan. “Clemson is a good team. They were very tough. But I was pleased with our young guys and our halfback combo of McAuliffe and Dan Page kept us going at a good tempo.”

Navy looks to Life University on Sunday.