Just a personal experience on this:
Why can't you get to mid...? In plenty of games, I was able to reach mid successfully with like a stone sword, blocks and armour within the first minute, without hacks. Consequently, I was able to grab gold and diamonds like you said, and progressively get more stronger with more stronger swords and armour. If you mind, could you please explain what you mean by "can't reach mid"?
Personal View: CubeCraft has done a pretty good job in repairing the update, in terms of taking people's opinions and suggestions. Also, there are a few suggestions that are still being proposed by members of this wonderful community/server, which are also still being considered, and the teams are on high 'watch-out' for feedback as stated by Stijnnn_ .
Here.
I trust this person :)