Rugby Arizona continues with this week's action and while Red Mountain continues to win, Ahwatukee does, too.

The Ahwatukee team, formerly Desert Valley, beat defending Nevada state champs the Las Vegas Blackhawks last week, and Head Coach Roger Tushingham is pleased with the chance to play outside the state.

"It was a very good experience for Ahwatukee," said Tushingham. "The Blackhawks were excellent hosts. Both teams are in pr- season or early season so we're a little rusty - but we played a hard fought game."

Las Vegas scored in the first minute, but Ahwatukee finished the stronger and won 34-17. No. 8 Adrian Van Niekerk led by example, and the center partnership of Jace Jenkins and Jeon Moss - both brand new to rugby - were very effective. Jenkins intercepted a pass and took it back for a try at a crucial moment. Scrumhalf Wesley Aaron was dangerous and scored two tries from the base of rucks.

So now on to this weekend, where Ahwatukee visits the Blackbirds in what it an important game for both. Salpoint is at Old Pueblo, Arrowhead at Red Mountain, and Phoenix visits Tempe.

Arizona Rugby divides teams between DI and DII, but the teams sometimes play crossover matches. In DII Scottsdale plays West Valley and Chandler plays East Valley.