The current season of Major League Rugby (MLR) is well underway, with teams contending for a place in the playoffs. Week 14 witnessed outstanding performances and crucial victories that have significantly impacted the race for the postseason.
The Houston SaberCats have emerged as the first team to secure a spot in the playoffs following an impressive 21-7 victory over the NOLA Gold. This win has positioned them as the frontrunners in the league, leading the Western Conference by seven points. The team’s remarkable performance throughout the season has resulted in a new franchise record of 11 wins, establishing them as a noteworthy contender going into the postseason.
Tighthead Prop Steven Longwell’s unexpected hat-trick in Old Glory DC’s thrilling 47-29 victory over Anthem RC was a noteworthy highlight. Longwell’s journey back to the team after facing various challenges exemplifies the ups and downs of professional rugby. His exceptional performance has been a pivotal factor in Old Glory DC’s success this season.
Following a disappointing loss the previous week, the New England Free Jacks made a strong comeback with a hard-fought 26-24 win over the Dallas Jackals, solidifying their position as a formidable contender in the league and extending their Eastern Conference lead to six points.
However, the Miami Sharks faced a setback with a 45-15 defeat against RFC Los Angeles, impacting their playoff hopes. With uncertainty ahead, the Sharks will need flawless performances in their upcoming matches to secure a spot in the postseason.
The San Diego Legion have experienced a late-season resurgence, culminating in a 27-20 bonus point win against the Utah Warriors. The return of Australian legend Matt Giteau to the pitch has greatly contributed to their recent success, securing their position in the Western Conference standings.
With the regular season coming to a close, teams are now preparing for the final push towards the playoffs. The upcoming pivotal matches are set to intensify the race for the postseason, and each team’s performance in the coming weeks will ultimately determine their fate in the 2024 MLR season.