Move Over Patriots, You Have A New Champion in New England

Major League Rugby (MLR) has been scrumming around since 2018 and for the first time, the New England Free Jacks have won the title.  They defeated the San Diego Legions 25-24 in a thriller.

Although San Diego was favored entering Saturday's championship match at SeatGeek Stadium in Chicago, the Free Jacks pulled off a dramatic, come-from-behind victory secured by Le Roux Malan's go-ahead try with just five minutes remaining.

The game featured four lead changes and drama from start to finish.

Both teams scored three tries each in the final, but it was Jayson Potroz’s accurate kicking that proved decisive for the Free Jacks. He showcased his skills alongside other international players, including the legendary Ma Nonu, who made a costly mistake when he fumbled a pass leading to the Free Jacks’ first try via an opportune intercept.

In a dramatic finish, Le Roux Malan broke free from Nonu’s grasp and scored the winning try for the Free Jacks just minutes before the final whistle. With an announced attendance of 10,153, the highest for an MLR championship game, the league certainly showcased its growing popularity and potential.

Watch highlights from the game here:  https://youtu.be/B1UDyuclWtc

New England had won a franchise-record 15 of its 17 games – 11 by double digits and seven by more than 20 – and end the season on a 12-game winning streak.

Major League Rugby Season Recap:
Eastern Conference
  1. New England Free Jacks (68 pts)
  2. Rugby New York (43 pts)
  3. Old Glory DC (43 pts)
  4. New Orleans Gold (35 pts)
  5. Rugby ATL (28 pts)
  6. Toronto Arrows (16 pts)
Western Conference
  1. San Diego Legion (74 pts)
  2. Seattle Seawolves (59 pts)
  3. Houston SaberCats (53 pts)
  4. Utah Warriors (50 pts)
  5. Chicago Hounds (20 pts)
  6. Dallas Jackals (19 pts)
Playoffs:
Eliminators
Seattle 37, Houston 26
Old Glory DC 37, Rugby New York 33

Conference Finals
New England 25, Old Glory DC 7
San Diego 32, Seattle 10

Final
New England 25, San Diego 24


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