Fulltime
Rugby United New York – 21
SaberCats – 0

On Sunday, the SaberCats traveled to MCU Park on Coney Island to take on the league-newcomers Rugby United New York in what was a rematch from a previous loss at home earlier this season. Unfortunately, the ‘Cats could not manage a different result on enemy territory, falling in the Big Apple to a score of 21-0. Charlie Connolly was named the team’s Man of the Match.

The game saw the team spend time playing at a self-inflicted disadvantage on more occasions than one should expect, with a total of three yellow cards being shown their way. With the sudden lack of support throwing a hitch in their game plan, the ‘Cats appeared to be stretched thin in both phases in order to compensate.

With the ball in hand, we saw the usual flashes of brilliance that showcase what this team is capable of when operating at their full potential. Players such as Josua Vici (8 carries, 123 meters), Luke Beauchamp (97 meters), and Thretton Palamo (2 LBs, 8 carries, 206 meters) all saw their brief stretches of open pasture that lit up that stat sheet, but none of those instances came within properly sustained phases resulting in tries.

What caused that lack of consistency was largely due to mistakes made within the smallest windows of the passing game. Attempted offloads, pickups, and catches were made all the more difficult thanks to a typical North Eastern Spring shower that decided to linger over the pitch. While the weather greatly affected both teams, the ‘Cats, unfortunately, found it much harder to retain their efficiency.

However, this game was most definitely not without its merits. Despite falling to an early 14-0 lead, the ‘Cats defense were able to hold New York scoreless until late in the second half (135 total tackles), keeping the game within a reasonable margin should if the offense ever found its life. In total, the ‘Cats were able to knock New York back behind the Gain Line of 25% of their pass attempts.

With the loss, the ‘Cats will stay at 8th in the standings with a record of 2-10 and 11 total points. New York, meanwhile, has moved into 3rd in the standings at 9-3 with 42 total points, and are in contention for the playoffs.

The ‘Cats next game will be this Saturday, May 11th, 7pm for the Grand Opening of at AVEVA Stadium. Hope to see you there!

Tickets Here

By Liam Poach