It was a pretty satisfying first run-out for the United HS programs as Utah Youth Rugby opened up its fall 7s.

With Utah having dodged some of the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the state moved a little faster than most to full-contact rugby.

And, despite being unsure about whether he could get players back and training in time, Head Coach Colin Puriri was not only able to field a boys and a girls team, but saw both go 4-0.

United Strong In Utah Opening Weekend

The boys team in fact was missing several well-regarded and experienced players and still won all their games.

"We were left a little short-handed and it showed in the last game," said Puriri. That would be the game against Brighton/Copper Hills. United went into that game 3-0 and Brighton/Copper Hills was 0-3. And yet the underdogs made it the closest game of the day for United, with the final score 19-14 for the favorites from Alpine.

United was bolstered by three players who normally play for Genesis. One of them, Joshua Nelson, was the MVP of the day. Longtime United players Quinn Matua and Roko Olayan were also outstanding.

The United Girls team were challenged by Provo and Wasatch, but held on to go 4-0.

"We havce a good mix of speed, quickness, and power," said Puriri.