NEWS

Round Sixteen Preview

WRITTEN BY ALEXANDER DIEGEL FOR THE RUGBY NETWORK | Photo by Quinn width

The chase for the 2021 MLR crown is down to six teams as we enter the final three weeks of the season. With the two teams battling for the last spot in the West on bye, it’s the East Coast clashes and one massive inter-conference showdown that highlight this weekend’s games. Take a look ahead below.

Seattle at San Diego 

Saturday at 3:00 p.m. ET | Watch on CBS Sports Network

These 2019 finalists are fighting for pride at this point, both near the bottom in the Western Conference. For Seattle in particular, it’s evaluation time to see who will stick around for the rebuild in 2022.

What’s at Stake: It’s still a rivalry match and both teams will look to end their seasons on high notes. Look forward to a great game regardless of the standings.

Bold Prediction: San Diego uses home field to avenge a May loss, 24-17.

Rugby United New York at New England Free Jacks

Saturday at 4:00 p.m. ET | Stream on The Rugby Network

New England is coming off of a crushing loss to NOLA, while New York got back in the win column a week after its win streak was snapped.

What’s at Stake: New England might be out of the playoff picture, but New York needs to keep winning to keep hold onto the 2 seed, or even overcome Atlanta for the 1.

Bold Prediction: New York finishes the season sweep, 28-21.

Old Glory DC at Toronto Arrows

Sunday at 6:00 p.m. ET | Watch on FS1

The two top teams in the East in 2020 had the script flip and now occupy the two bottom spots in the conference this season. Old Glory has three key players gone for the Eagles’ European tour, but the Arrows are even more depleted with a league leading eight.

What’s at Stake: These teams are both proud and talented. With that combination, there’s always something to play for.

Bold Prediction: Old Glory’s on the road, but also with less roster turnover. Give me DC 31-20.

NOLA Gold at LA Giltinis

Sunday at 10:00 p.m. ET | Watch on FS1

The last game of the week is the one filled with the most drama as NOLA tries again to keep New York within striking distance.

What’s at Stake: Everything. From NOLA Gold’s perspective, at least. New Orleans has rattled off three straight wins to stay within a game of New York, but likely needs to win out to sneak in.

Bold Prediction: If the four players selected to Coach Gary Gold’s roster (all from the pack) were in play I’d be more confident picking the road ‘dawgs. NOLA’s run comes to an end, however, as LA wins it 34-24.