Legion Advance To The Big Dance With Win Over Seattle
California Legion punched their ticket to the Major League Rugby Championship on Saturday night, earning a hard-fought 43-34 victory over the Seattle Seawolves in a thrilling MLR Semi-Final at Starfire Stadium.
Playing in a hostile road environment before a packed Seattle crowd, California weathered an intense opening half that embodied the physical nature of playoff rugby. The contest was defined by heavy defensive pressure, fierce collisions, and a battle for field position as neither side was willing to yield an advantage.
Legion struck first through the boot of Coby Miln, who opened the scoring with a successful penalty kick and delivered a flawless performance from the tee. Miln accounted for 23 of California’s 43 points on the night, proving instrumental in the victory. Joey Mano then crossed for the Legion’s first try of the evening, while captain Jason Damm added another in first-half stoppage time, finishing off the opening 40 minutes with a try in the 41st minute to help send California into the break level with Seattle at 16-16.
Discipline became one of the match’s key talking points when Seattle forward Rhyno Herbst was shown a 20-minute red card, a decision that shifted momentum. The second half evolved into an entertaining, high-scoring affair as both teams traded momentum and points. Penalties again played a role in shaping the contest, but California proved clinical when opportunities arose.
The Legion tidied up their discipline with the ball, converted pressure into points, and made the most of nearly every scoring chance. Their composure in key moments allowed them to create separation late and secure the road victory.
Seattle continued to push until the final whistle, but California’s efficiency and execution ultimately proved decisive.
The result sends California Legion to the Major League Rugby Championship, where they will await the winner of Monday’s semifinal between Old Glory DC and the undefeated Chicago Hounds to determine their opponent in the title match.
Final Score: California Legion 43, Seattle Seawolves 34.
With a championship now within reach, California Legion will turn their attention to preparing for the season’s biggest stage as they seek to capture the Major League Rugby title.
Chicago is Calling
California Legion are headed to the MLR Championship, and now you can be there too. MLR has partnered with CTMS Travel to offer official travel packages to Chicago and Bridgeview from June 19 to 21, with flexible options to fit a variety of budgets.
Must purchase before June 18th.
