by | May 2, 2025

VIEW THE FULL ROSTER

1 Malakai Hala-Ngatai
2 Andrew Quattrin
3 Jone Koroiduadua
4 Piers von Dadelszen
5 Sam Caird
6 Jed Melvin
7 Joe Johnston
8 Wian Conradie
9 Cam Nordli-Kelemeti
10 Dan Hollinshead
11 Paula Balekana
12 Le Roux Malan
13 Ben Lesage
14 Jack Reeves
15 Brock Webster
16 Kaleb Geiger
17 Tevita Sole
18 Kyle Steeves
19 Josh Larsen
20 Ethan Fryer
21 Emanuel Lai
22 Wayne van der Bank
23 Simon-Peter Toleafoa

Recovery
Lennon
McInerney
Coghlan
Olson
Baillie
Potroz
Boyle
Peni
Stevens

Round 12 Roster & Match Preview

New England Free Jacks vs. Houston Sabercats:
#1 in the east take on #2 in the west in an important coast to coast battle 

The Free Jacks are back on their home turf at Veterans Memorial Stadium this Sunday, May 4th, at 2:00 PM EST, as they face off against the Houston SaberCats in what promises to be an electrifying showdown. With the Free Jacks riding a 5-game win streak, they’re looking to extend their momentum and make a strong push toward another championship run.

The Free Jacks’ Road to Dominance

After five straight victories, the Free Jacks return home eager to keep their winning streak alive and energize the loyal New England crowd. Fresh off a well-deserved break, the team is recharged and ready to take on a Houston SaberCats side that is known for its physicality and resilience.

After the tranquility week of 3 games in 11 days the team is really refreshed & excited of the challenge a physical Houston team will bring to Fort Quincy! Combinations across the team are being solidified & the Free Jacks are looking to assert their dominance in the league said Ryan Martin Head Coach. 

The Free Jacks’ confidence is high, and they’ve been gearing up for this matchup with a clear goal in mind: to prove that their form is more than just a streak, but a championship-caliber run.

Key Players to Watch

This match will feature some exciting player milestones. First, look for Emanuel Lai to make his debut for the Free Jacks. The newcomer has been making waves in training and is eager to show what he can do on the big stage. His performance could be a game-changer in the Free Jacks’ attack.

In addition, Paula Balekana will be hitting a significant milestone—his 50th cap for the Free Jacks. A key player for the team, Balekana has been instrumental in the Free Jacks’ success over the past seasons, and his experience and leadership will be crucial in this important game.

Special Game Elements: 80’s Mixtape Festival

This game isn’t just about the action on the field—it’s about the entire fan experience. The Free Jacks are bringing a heavy dose of fun and nostalgia with their 80’s Mixtape Festival theme. Expect a stadium full of high-energy music, and get ready to rock out with a Mötley Brüe beer tasting experience that will take you back to the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll. The combination of stadium anthems, cold brews, and electric energy is guaranteed to make this an unforgettable experience.

But it’s not just about the party—this game will also feature a pet food drive in collaboration with the Animal Rescue League, giving fans the chance to give back to the community while supporting their team.

A Rivalry Renewed

The Free Jacks and Houston SaberCats have a history of thrilling encounters, with the Free Jacks securing a victory over Houston in their last meeting, a high-scoring shootout where both teams were battling for the top spot on the table. This time, the stakes are just as high, with both teams looking to assert themselves in the league as the playoffs approach.

With the Free Jacks looking to keep their streak alive and Houston coming in with a determined and physical style of play, this promises to be another unforgettable clash.

Match Info:

  • Date & Time: Sunday, May 4th, 2:00 PM EST

  • Venue: Veterans Memorial Stadium, Quincy, MA

  • Streaming: ESPN+ and NBC Sports Boston

Looking Ahead:

After this showdown, the Free Jacks will continue their push toward the playoffs with a focus on maintaining their dominance in the league. Next week, May 10th the Free Jacks are again at home on a 6 day turn around to celebrate Quincy’s 400th Birthday as they take on East Coast rivals Chicago hounds. But first, they’ll need to prove themselves against a physical Houston team and give their home fans another reason to celebrate.

Don’t miss this exciting matchup at Fort Quincy! Whether you’re coming for the rugby, the festival, or the community event, there’s something for everyone. Come for the rock ‘n’ roll, stay for the rugby—this game is going to be one for the books!

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news

Written By:

Oliver Gilpin

Director of Brand and Creative @ New England Free Jacks

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