South Greenville and the Charlotte Tigers will face off next week in the final of the Mid-South Independent Rugby League after both won tight, dramatic semifinals Saturday.

South Greenville defeated Wando 20-15 in sudden-death overtime.

The teams battled to a 15-15 tie at full time. Time was available for a short overtime, and South Greenville fullback Chris Aurich found enough space to score the game-winner. Center Doyle Hedgepeth and wing Charles Gupton also scored tries. South Greenville Head Coach Phil Weston credited the work of his pack, and scrumhalf Sid Shoop marshaled the attack nicely.

Meanwhile, the Charlotte Tigers, who had played (and won) a North Carolina semifinal the day before, pitched up against Phoenix Alpharetta out of Georgia. The Tigers took a defensive battle 13-3. Flyhalf Jack Williams kicked two crucial penalty goals in a game that was 6-3 until late. Then backup center Jyilek Harrington scored a late try, which Williams converted ti ice it.

These two will play for the final in a week. The MSIRL is an independent league that doesn't lead to a state title. It's a group of top HS teams from around the Southern states.