Quincy, MA — With the postseason picture sharpening and playoff stakes rising by the minute, Saturday night’s clash between the New England Free Jacks and Old Glory DC at Veterans Memorial Stadium isn’t just another game on the calendar. It’s a playoff-caliber collision with consequences for the entire Major League Rugby landscape.

The Free Jacks (9-0-4, 45 points) have already clinched a playoff berth. But with three regular-season matches left, this one might be the most important of them all. Win, and New England can all but secure the Eastern Conference’s top seed and the right to host both a semifinal and potentially the Championship Final — should they reach it. Lose, and the door reopens for DC (7-0-6, 40 points), Chicago (39), and even Miami (36) to challenge the East’s balance of power.

“With 3 regular season games remaining, we are the healthiest we have been all year. Our players are fresh and understand the importance of these final matches, setting us up well for the post-season. To play two of these games at home is huge and we are ready for the challenge at hand”
General Manager Tom Kindley

Clash of the Colors and a Rivalry Renewed: With Higher Stakes Than Ever

Old Glory DC already holds one win over the Free Jacks this year; a 28-14 statement victory back in Week 6 and they arrive in Quincy with serious momentum, riding a three-game win streak. 

DC has only won once at Fort Quincy, and  their last three clashes with New England have all been decided by four points or fewer, including a 2024 playoff semifinal where the Free Jacks escaped 33-29. With Saturday’s winner potentially gaining the inside track to host a home semifinal (or more), there’s little doubt: this one’s for more than just bragging rights.

“The team is highly motivated to make a statement performance in front of our loyal fans after a disappointing outing in Miami. With some key players available for selection there will be real intent to play with energy & enthusiasm against an in-form DC team,” said Head Coach Ryan Martin. 

Image featuring a lineout from the 2023 Free Jacks Vs Old Glory DC clash at Veterans Memorial Stadium

Clash of Styles — And Strengths

Saturday’s contest pits the Free Jacks’ stingy offence against Old Glory’s multi-faceted defense. And the matchups are mouthwatering across the board.

New England winger Paula Balekana has been nearly unstoppable all season, notching 10 tries  (third-most in MLR in 2025) with his trademark mix of acceleration and strength. He’ll be shadowed by DC’s Damien Hoyland, who ranks among league leaders in meters gained (735) and excels at creating chaos in transition. “Expect the Free Jacks to physically take DC on & look to unleash the ever vibrant Paula Balakena” added Head Coach Ryan Martin

The forward battle may ultimately decide it. DC’s Cory Daniel (183 tackles, top three in MLR) brings relentless energy to the breakdown. On the other side, New England boasts a physical pack led by Wian Conradie (fresh off a two-try performance). 

Don’t overlook the impact of Free Jacks flanker Jed Melvin, whose 7 tries rank among the most by any forward in the league.

Implications Echo Across the League

This isn’t just an Eastern Conference showdown. The result could shape the road to the MLR Shield for teams on both coasts.

Should the Free Jacks win (especially with a bonus point)  they could leapfrog the Houston SaberCats (47 points) in the overall standings. But a loss could cement Houston’s grip on that top spot, which could prove to be a psychological advantage to the team that makes it to the Championship Final in Rhode Island. 

For DC, a win vaults them closer to securing the franchise’s first-ever home playoff game — and solidifying their status as legitimate championship contenders.

In short, the league is watching.

Unmissable Action

Veterans Memorial Stadium has become a fortress for New England. The Free Jacks are undefeated at home in 2025, and last year’s playoff atmosphere was so electric even Old Glory’s owners publicly praised the fan experience.

This is the second to last regular-season home game of the year, and with fan appreciation festivities, perfect weather on the forecast, and playoff implications on the line, the stage is set.

Whether you’re in the stands or tuning in at home, this is a night you won’t want to miss.

🎉 join us at Veterans Memorial Stadium for Tribute to the Troops Festival, find out more about the match day festivities here

🎟 Get your tickets now for Saturday night’s clash at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy here

📺 Watch live on NBC Sports Boston, ESPN+ or The Rugby Network – kickoff set for 5:00 PM ET

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