Life University capped off an undefeated run in the Mid-South DIA season with a 34-0 shutout of Davenport in Grand Rapids, Mich.

It was a trying road trip for the Running Eagles. Head Coach Scott Lawrence was unable to accompany the squad, which left on a bus Thursday night only to return to Marietta when the bus had engine trouble. So instead the team traveled all day Friday, arriving in Michigan late on Friday. Saturday morning presented a cold, snow-covered field at Davenport's campus.

"We knew we had to adjust a little bit to the conditions," said Life University Coach Colton Cariaga, who, along with Coach David Gannon, ran the team Saturday. "We knew we had to narrow our splits a bit and back up our support more. And in parts we played some good 12-man rugby. But we didn't change a whole lot."

Steve Zomberg photos.

Prop Estevan Florez was a force for Life; "he put in a good shift," said Cariaga.

A couple of younger players did get a start this week, and No. 8 Maciu Koroi had a big day, and in fact scored Life's first try. Blane McIlroy converted that try and added a penalty before Zander Van Schalkwyk raced in after Life won a scrum. That left the score 17-0 at halftime. In the second half, scrumhalf Kevin Lynch sniped over from close-range, and McIlroy converted and then added a penalty. That made it 27-0, and Life finished it off when Marcus Walsh went over and McIlroy converted.

"It was a good day," said Cariaga. "The difficulties in and around the game will, in the long run, be good for us. We had to persevere and the guys came together. They handled a difficult game that was like a playoff game."

Life finishes conference play 4-0. Only one game remains in the conference, as Lindenwood visits Davenport next week. Davenport, despite being 0-3, can move into 2nd with a win.

Steve Zomberg photos.