Your Denver Barbarians defeated the Aspen Gentleman 50-38 in a high scoring affair to book a spot in the Rocky Mountain Rugby Final on November 7th. The Barbos will face Park City Haggis who topped the league thanks to a strong point differential. The match against Aspen marked the first time the Barbos defeated their instate rivals in league play since Aspen joined in 2024. It came at a moment where the playoff like atmosphere raised “win or go home” tensions for both teams.
The team opened up the scoring through strong field position from flyhalf Luke Neely’s boot that kept the men in Green & White attacking down in Aspen’s half. Julian DeRaffele was a standout in the backline, and Kierian Langskov won man of the match honors in the forward pack. Strong lineout retention was key to the Barbos success as hooker Jackson Zabierek was laser sharp with his throws. Sean Gorman opened up the back of the lineout in the second half, creating strong opportunities in the back of the lineout.
Coach Davie Williams was masterful with his full use of the bench players, helping the Barbos hold off a second half surge by the Aspen Gentleman. Somehow, off guts and sheer will power, the Barbos were able to survive 5 yellow cards throughout the match. The defensive effort in the second half was spearheaded by forward replacements Christian Rubio, Ian Wormer, Jacob Valdez and Dillon Stander. Ian Priest stepped up big after the loss of fellow prop Benji Hund to injury the match prior.
The Barbos now look towards the culmination of the fall season, the Rocky Mountain Rugby Final. The team will travel to Salt Lake City for the biggest match of the year on November 7th. Kickoff is set for 1:00pm at Murray Fields Park.
The last team to win on the road in Utah in fall of 2021
Headed to the Mountains for a Smashing RMRU Final!
As Always, Bleed Green.