It will be Ahwatukee against Red Mountain in the Rugby Arizona state final after a both teams won semifinals this past weekend.

Ahwatukee struggled a bit in February and early March, losing games to the Blackbirds, Red Mountain, and Salpointe. But the last few weeks have seen the team bounce back a little, with a 34-24 win over Tempe their best showing and then a big victory over Arrowhead. Ahwatukee lost to the Blackbirds 41-34 on February 11, but showed a stronger defensive effort in winning 33-17 on Saturday. 

Wing Chance Glover was named player of the game. He set up two first-half tries for Malachi Knox. New recruit Francisco Canales has added some size and physicality to the Ahwatukee forward pack, and with Jace Jenkins back in the threequarter line after injury, the Phoenix-area club is looking much improved.

Red Mountain, for their part, did not get to play their semifinal game as Tempe forfeited. 

Red Mountain was hoping to rebound after their convincing loss to th San Diego Mustangs. Head Coach Jared Barker said he likes what he has.

Colby Cavanaugh has been a beast at lock, and Brydon Horne is a small but explosive hooker. Cooper Tingey anchors the pack at No. 8, while fullback Braxton Gries has been excellent. All of those players are expected to make an impact in the final April 22. As for Ahwatukee, they know Red Mountain is strong.

"We know we will have to kick it up another couple of notches if we want to make a game of it," said Ahwatukee Head Coach Roger Tushingham.