NA Rugby Database

Recap

The San Diego Legion host Anthem RC at Snapdragon Stadium in a cross-conference clash that could see the San Diego Legion clinch their 2024 playoff stop, depending on the result of other games.

The hosts came out flying, with both wingers dotting down within the first 10 minutes, before Cliven Loubser hit back for Anthem, the frenetic start leaving the score on 12-7 to San Diego just 12 minutes in. Both teams settled into the game and it was 20 minutes until the next score, when MLR veteran Mikey Te’o extended the Legion’s lead. McClutchie nailed the conversion and HT arrived with a score of 19-7.

The heat may have slowed the pace of the game, and the second half started with plenty of back and forth before the guests opened the half’s account with a penalty kick to bring them within 9pts, but a minute lated the Legion secured the try BP with a Tiaan Loots score to extend their lead once again, now 26-10. James Vaifale’s second of the game was an insurance marker for the Legion 15 minutes later, taking the score to an unflattering 31-10, and San Diego seemed to relax slightly. with 6 minutes to go, Anthem added 2 quick scores in as many minutes to bring the score to 31-24 and within losing BP range, and raise the Legion’s heart rates. In the final minutes, Josh Henderson slotted a penalty to maintain the gap and secure the BP win in front of a home crowd.

The San Diego Legion had done all they could to clinch a 2024 playoff spot, and relied on both RFCLA and the Utah Warriors losing to secure their spot, which they did. 2023’s runners-up secure their place in the 2024 Championship Series, looking to go one step further.