Colorado School of Mines Rugby came out to play this weekend. They seemed to learn a lot from last week's loss. Primarily, the forwards dominated the game through their phase play and retention. No longer were Mines players watching the play happen, instead, the team became part of each and every play - to make a real difference. In combination with that, Mines players stayed on their feet until support arrived!!! The end result was Metro State being completely and utterly crushed and demoralized. Score at half time = 35 - 0. Full time score = 71 - 5. Go Mines!!!

All in all, it was hard to fault the team or pick a best player. It was the first time Mines was able to get players to the breakdown within one second. Although the forwards must be the real stars of this victory, the backs also shined playing as backs and, when the situation called, playing as forwards as needed.

Once again, the tackling and defense of the team was superb. Although there is still some room for improvement here, 95% of the time the team stayed low, drove and wrapped. The commitment and determination to the tackle was evident.

A dissapointment was the penalty count, 25-9 to Metro State. Discipline to the breakdown - such as trying to stay on their feet and entering from the back of the ruck needs to be improved. Wayne Couch, the referee, was tough on the team and for the right reasons. Without a referee like Wayne, the team would not be able to learn and improve their mistakes.

Congratulations to Tom English who scored 5 tries and proved his 'real' worth. He was truly outstanding. Donald Hazen played like Phil Waugh (an Australian legend) and is without a doubt the most improved player on the team. Donald's future in Rugby is extremely bright. Pat Carrol scored a much deserved try and, with Chris Mielke in tow, led the pack around the field. Both Pat's and Chris' contribution was, and is, a huge lift for the team. As graduating seniors we expect to see them both go far (if desired) in USA Rugby. Dan Burch followed the ball and showed his usual determination. Not once did he watch the play happen, he decided to make a difference while the play was happening - great to see! Mike Slavens played harder than we've seen him play. He stayed lower in plays and made some crucial and inspirational tackles. His play at the breakdown was also fantastic. As usual, Nathan Kitners made the plays and breaks he is renowned for. More inspiring was his prowess at the breakdown. John Boxall remained the guiding force to the forwards as our impact player in the first 20-30 minutes. As a pack, the scrums and lineouts were dominating.

Pete Gronewoller and Mat Oliver added the strength to the pack when it was needed. Both Pete and Mat came onto the field ready and determined. It will be a pleasure to see both of them playing in the years to come. Tomas Romani and Eric Carrol have come along leaps and strides and continue to make an impact to the team when they come on the field. Partially due to the example set by D Hazen, P Carrol and C Mielke, these two will be valuable members of the Mines Rugby for years to come. Aaron Hale finally showed that he has true grit and determination deep inside of him. Aaron's play has been lacking in the past, however, this week he showed he is truly capable. We look forward to seeing Aaron become a bigger part of the team as his mindset develops further.

Unbelievably, the backs had some great backline plays throughout the game. It was a special moment seeing Drew Beard (winger) score from a ball-in-hand backline play. Once again, the captain and scrum half (Nick Belis) led the team through smarts, courage and leadership. Matt Ross continued his tough defensive plays while also improving his attacking play as a fly half (great hands). Both Matt and Jared Heath are Mines' toughest backs and the best defensive players. Jared ran straighter this week, protected the ball, stayed on his feet and absolutely smashed the opposition in defense. He sets a great example and will be sorely missed by the coach and players alike. As with some other graduating players, he will go a 'long way' in USA Rugby if he so chooses. We'll miss you Heater!!! Kevin Smith did what he has become famous for - stopping the opposition. Kevin is a textbook tackler - he doesn't miss a tackle. Truly amazing... Alec Anderson has developed to become an expert fullback. His kicking game, defensive plays, and his attack is everything and more than what you could ask from a fullback. Seeing both Matt Ross and Alec play for the next three years will be a real pleasure and will be key in keeping Mines Rugby strong. And lastly, but definitely not least, Matt Briggs (celebrity appearance), Drew Beard and Justin Guerra strengthened our wings through strong defense and smart positional play. It will be good to see more game time from these guys in the future.

Special Thanks - Denver Harlequins for continuing to make us a better team.  Wayne Couch for making a huge effort on short notice and teaching the team to play a better game.  AND, the crowd - for being so vocal and supporting their home team.

Man of the Match (an almost impossible task)
3 POINTS - Tom English - 5 tries, breakdown play
2 POINTS - Donald Hazen - breakdown play
2 POINTS - Pat Carrol - leadership, defense and breakdown play
2 POINTS - Chris Mielke - leadership, breakdown play and goal kicking
1 POINT - Dan Burch, Nathan Kitners, Mike Slavens, Jared Heath, Alec Anderson, Matt Ross, Drew Beard