Legion Win in Style Against Anthem

Behind a hat trick from Steffan Crimp and a dominant first-half display, Legion collected the full five competition points and moved back into second place with one regular season match remaining.

With a playoff berth on the line and revenge from Round 1 still fresh in mind, California arrived in Charlotte knowing exactly what was at stake. The response was emphatic. A dominant first half laid the foundation before Legion continued to pile on points in a statement road performance as the postseason approaches.

A Century of MLR Rugby

In a match with major playoff implications, Legion raced to a commanding 33 to 7 halftime lead and never looked back.

The result was particularly satisfying after Anthem handed California a disappointing loss in the opening round of the season. This time, Legion left little doubt, producing one of their most complete attacking displays of the year.

Leading the charge was TV Man of the Match Steffan Crimp, who crossed for three tries as California's attack found another gear.

“We knew coming here was going to be difficult, but we wanted to get the five points to put us in the best position for those playoffs going into next week, and we did that,” Crimp said.

“It’s really exciting knowing that we’ve still got the home playoffs to play for, but we’ve secured our playoff spot with those five points.”

Crimp believes the squad is building momentum at the perfect time.

“We’ve been building slowly and it feels like we’re peaking at just the right time going into those playoffs and the last regular-season game. We really want to put our mark on the league.”

A Century of MLR Rugby

The memorable victory also marked a significant personal milestone for veteran forward Keni Nasoqeqe, who made his 100th Major League Rugby appearance.

One of the league’s most respected and consistent performers, Nasoqeqe has been a cornerstone of professional rugby in the United States since MLR’s inaugural seasons, earning admiration for his physicality, leadership, and professionalism.

Reaching the century mark is a testament to his longevity, durability, and commitment to the game. It was fitting that the milestone came on a day when California Legion delivered one of its most complete performances of the season.

Lessons Learned

While California's attack stole the headlines, Head Coach Steve Hoiles pointed to the work done since the opening-round defeat as a major factor in the result.

“Obviously losing to them in round one was really disappointing, and they had a formula the last time they beat us,” Hoiles said.

“We had to work really hard to clean up the ruck. It didn’t matter how well we went in the collisions; if we didn’t clean up the ruck post-tackle, then we were going to get messy ball.”

Hoiles acknowledged there is still room to improve as the postseason approaches.

“There’s a little bit more risk to playing like this. We’ve got to be better defensively. But it’s enjoyable to watch and enjoyable to coach. The players are very supportive and open-minded about playing this style of footy.”

He also believes the group is coming together at the right time.

“It took us a few weeks longer than we’d have liked to understand how we wanted to play. Then there’s a conditioning match to it, and I think we’ve tied those two in nicely.

Having players fit, available and understanding how we want to play, I think that’s a good combination.”

Playoffs Secured

The victory guarantees California Legion a place in the 2026 Major League Rugby playoffs while keeping alive the pursuit of a home playoff match.

The regular season now comes down to one final road trip against the Seattle Seawolves.

Legion know that securing at least two bonus points in Seattle would guarantee a home playoff fixture, ensuring the club remains firmly in control of its postseason destiny.

One match remains.

The playoffs are secured.

Now the focus shifts to bringing postseason rugby back home to California.

Match Summary

Anthem Rugby Carolina 26 – 55 California Legion

Half-Time: California Legion 33 – 7 Anthem Rugby Carolina

Key Performer: Steffan Crimp (3 tries, TV Man of the Match)

Competition Points Earned: 5

Outcome: California Legion clinch a playoff berth and move into second place in the standings.