Saturday's matchup was a highly anticipated showdown between the last two undefeated teams in the High Peaks Eastern Rugby Conference. The winner would walk away division champ and host the Conference Championship for Nationals. CMU played host to the University of Colorado for the potential final home match of the season.

As has become the norm, the visiting team came out hitting big with hard runs up the middle of the pitch. Scoring at 7- and 15-minutes in, putting CMU down 12-0 early. Then it was up to the Mavs to respond and rally. A shifty run down the side with offloads and support had Ellen Rickerd scoring, closing the gap to within seven. A massive break through run by Ashley Bollinger along the outside had the team within two and a powerful run down the middle by Kenya Contreras had the Mavs quickly leading the match 15-12, 30 minutes in. A late try in the first half extra time would give CU the advantage at half 17-15.

CMU changed the narrative and responded hot out of the halftime break. Speedster Chloe Coop got into the action and was able to break loose on the outside giving the Mavs the lead back in the first minute. A Rickerd conversion grew the gap to 22-17 CMU. CU answered back with hard fought runs and grab and go plays. They would tie it up, then go ahead, 10 minutes into the second half.

Carly Scheck got into the scoring with a massive tackle and steal off of the kickoff restart and a great run down the outside. She wasn't done as minutes later she would return a CU kickoff with a great support run and finish on the outside to give the Mavs the lead again. Rickerd would tack on another conversion to put the Mavs up 34-31, 20 minutes into the second half.

CU took the lead back four minutes later, but Coop struck again right after, regaining the CMU lead at the 30-minute marker. There were nine lead changes in this amazing matchup. Both teams showed grit and heart. The theatrics and magic fell short for the Mavs as CU was able to put in some fresh legs and finish strong. With eight minutes left in the match they would score the go ahead try and not look back. This was a battle until the final whistle and all in attendance were given a show.
 
Final score 48-39 Buffs. The ladies will head to Laramie Wyoming for the final match of the fall 2024 season. Kickoff will be at 11am at the pitch on Fraternity Row. Regardless of the outcome, CMU will finish the season #2 in the division and be on the outside looking in on Nationals. This will be the first time since Fall 2021 the Mavs will miss a fall post season. However, the team has a bright future with 15 of the 25 members being rookies. Preparation will begin for spring 7s, with their speed and heart, they have a solid chance at winning another National Championship in 2025.
 
Trys
Ashley Bollinger
Kenya Contreras
Chloe Coop (2)
Carly Scheck (2)
Ellen Rickerd
Conversions:
Ellen Rickerd 2