In a thrilling rematch of the 2024 Major League Rugby (MLR) Championship, the Seattle Seawolves delivered a heart-pounding comeback victory over the New England Free Jacks, triumphing 27-24 in front of a roaring home crowd at Starfire Stadium on Saturday night. The win not only secured four crucial points in the league standings but also earned Seattle a bonus point for scoring more than four tries, reinforcing their championship ambitions early in the 2025 season.
The highly anticipated showdown between two of MLR’s elite teams lived up to its billing, featuring a rollercoaster of momentum swings, hard-hitting collisions, and dramatic moments that left fans on the edge of their seats.
Fast Start by the Defending Champions
The Free Jacks, reigning MLR champions, wasted no time asserting their dominance. Within the first 20 minutes, they had stormed to a 14-0 lead, displaying clinical efficiency with two well-crafted tries, both successfully converted. Their aggressive attacking play and precise execution put Seattle under immediate pressure, silencing the usually boisterous Starfire Stadium faithful.
But if there’s one thing the Seawolves have built their reputation on, it’s resilience.
Seattle’s Response: Orr Leads the Charge
As the Free Jacks threatened to pull away, Seattle found a lifeline in prop Cameron Orr. The veteran forward bulldozed his way through the New England defense for two powerful tries, single-handedly reigniting the Seawolves’ momentum. Although both conversions went astray, Seattle was firmly back in the contest, feeding off the energy of their passionate supporters.
The battle intensified before halftime, with each team adding another try to the scoreboard. New England’s accurate goal-kicking ensured they maintained the upper hand, carrying a 24-15 lead into the break. However, a costly yellow card for the Free Jacks late in the first half meant they would begin the second period with a man down—a vulnerability Seattle was eager to exploit.
Seawolves Dominate the Second Half
The Seawolves wasted no time capitalizing on their numerical advantage. Just four minutes into the second half, outside center Mika Kruse delivered a moment of brilliance, slicing through the Free Jacks’ defensive line to touch down for Seattle’s fourth try. This time, fly-half Rodney Iona took over kicking duties and calmly slotted the conversion, bringing the score to 24-22 and setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
From that moment onward, the Seawolves’ defense took center stage. In a game of high stakes and physicality, both teams had opportunities to extend their tally through penalty kicks, but neither could convert. The Seattle defensive unit, marshaled by captain Riekert Hattingh, put on a masterclass in resilience, shutting out New England completely in the second half—a testament to their tactical discipline and sheer determination.
Esdale Seals the Deal in the Final Minute
With time winding down and the match hanging in the balance, Seattle continued to press forward in search of the decisive score. Their relentless pressure finally paid off in the 79th minute when Malacchi Esdale found space and powered his way over the line for the Seawolves’ fifth and final try of the night. Starfire Stadium erupted in celebration as the home side clinched a stunning 27-24 victory, completing an unforgettable comeback.
Coach Clarke Praises Team’s Grit and Determination
Seattle head coach Allen Clarke lauded his team’s character and fighting spirit in the post-match press conference.
“Credit to both teams for an outstanding contest,” Clarke said. “It was a game that could have gone either way, but I felt we deserved the victory, especially scoring five tries to three. The boys showed real resilience and belief, and thankfully, Malacchi finished brilliantly in the 79th minute to give our fans the win they deserved.”
Seattle’s victory ensured they retained the coveted Coffee Cup, an annual trophy contested between the two sides, and sent a strong message to the rest of the league about their championship aspirations.
What’s Next for the Seawolves?
With their dramatic home win secured, the Seawolves now shift their focus to next Saturday, March 15, when they travel to California to take on Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) at UCLA’s Wallis Annenberg Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. PT as Seattle looks to maintain their momentum and continue their push for playoff contention in Week 5 of the MLR season.
Seattle fans will be hoping for another inspired performance as the Seawolves aim to build on this thrilling victory and solidify their place among MLR’s elite teams.
