After #1 ranked Colorado School of Mines defeated Mesa State 5-1 last month and came into Walker Field Sunday, it seemed it was only a matter of time before the game got out of hand. But with the entire team playing toe-to-toe with the Orediggers, the result had everyone happy, for the most part.

Friday night, the Mavs defeated Colorado Christian 2-0. Brandon Burgans started with a goal 18 minutes into the game. After a long defensive stand by both sides, Steve Shaw punched in his third goal of the season, sealing the deal for the Mavs 2-0.

Sunday’s game featured the number one team in the country as Mesa tried to get their revenge on Mines. The Mavs did their job all game by keeping control of the ball. Goalie Chris Raines had a solid performance by making five saves, including three in the first half.

After a scoreless first half, Mesa State continued to battle with Mines. With 14 minutes to go in the game, Mines got on the board first after a goal by Chike Sullivan. The lone mistake of the game for Mesa cost them, as the 1-0 score held up to be a final.

“They’re first in the country and we played one to one with them all game,” Jake Jobe said. “We are a little frustrated that we gave up that goal, but the guys played very hard and we played our game and that was good.”

Despite the loss, both the team and coach Josh Pittman aren’t totally dissatisfied with the loss.

“We came prepared, we worked hard and we took care of the ball,” Pittman said. “We can compete with anybody in my opinion. They have a couple difference makers and they made the difference today.”

With the loss, the Mavs fall to 6-4-1 on the season and 2-2 at Walker Field. Even with a winning record, the team still needs to improve.

“I just want the team to do better,” Pittman said. “I want to get better in practices and better overall performance.”

The Mavs play at home again Friday against Regis. After Sunday’s home game against Metro State. The team will travel to Durango for a mid-week showdown against Fort Lewis then returns home Oct. 17.

ahimes@mesastate.edu