The Albuquerque Aardvarks started their DII league season with a double header this past weekend, taking on Santa Fe and Las Vegas (NM).

The Aardvarks ran out their first side against a tough Santa Fe team and looked to be in a dogfight early, as Santa Fe led 14-12.

However, Albuquerque exploded after that for 68 unanswered points to win 80-14.

This was the Aardvarks’ first run-out with their top side as they sent a mixed side to Aspen (where they lost to Glendale and, narrowly, to Provo before beating Kansas City).

Curtis Chaffin received Man of the Match honors and showed well in his first match at flyhalf after moving there from outside center.

In the second match, Albuquerque tied the Las Vegas Vatos 26-26.

Both games were played at Santa Fe's facility which has two rugby pitches and a newly built clubhouse.