Utah Youth Rugby is a HS league to keep an eye on as there seems to be a bit of a changing of the guard.

Cavemen Rugby have logged a nicely-taken win over East HS over the past weekend and now look to follow that up against a physically imposing Highland side.

The Cavemen vs East game was a match between the defending UYR D1 state champs, East, and the 2024 UYR D2 winners. Having moved up to D1, Cavemen have been on a mission to prove they belong there.

The game itself was played during a dense snowstorm (see our report on the week in D1A college rugby for an example). Cavemen took control early, shutting out East 26-0 in the first half with tries from flanker Carlos Uyema and hooker Briggs Love in the forwards, as well as fullback Zaeden Selu and #scrumhalf Chris Malo in the backs.

The second half saw Cavemen extend their lead with lock Latu Moeai and No. 8 Easton Simmons going over. Flyhalf Tristan Mocke conitnued to get full value for the tries, slotting 5-of-6 conversions on the day.

East was able to rebound with a couple of tries late nailed 5 of 6 conversion kicks. Cavemen subbed in their finishers late in the game. East, known for their size and physicality, managed two late scores, but the Cavemen’s early dominance and strong team chemistry sealed the victory, further reinforcing their presence in both Utah and the national rugby scene. Next up, the Cavemen face Highland before traveling to Tennessee for The Friendship Cup to take on nationally ranked Charlotte Cardinals #1, Woodlands #2, Charlotte Tigers #12, and Raptors (TN) #20.