New England Free Jacks vs. Old Glory DC:
The Battle of the Red, White & Blue

The undefeated-at-home Free Jacks return to Quincy after a weekend in Miami to face off against Old Glory DC at Veterans Memorial Stadium this Saturday, May 24 at 5:00 PM EST for their 13th season match up. 

A Three-Peat Brewing 

With an undefeated record at home this season, the New England Free Jacks look to capitalize on their last two home games of the regular season, buoyed by the support of fans and Quincy,with hopes of clutching another Major League Rugby Championship title. After a battling loss in Miami, the team is ready to come home to their turf and ride the momentum of their success at home this season. 

 The team is highly motivated to make a “statement performance” this weekend with a highly physical match brewing and the unleashing of Paula Balekana back to the wing, according to Head Coach Ryan Martin. 

 When New England fans are piled into a roaring stadium there’s no challenge that can’t be overcome. The Free Jacks are confident that this Saturday will prove to be a preview of their strength and trajectory as postseason nears and the team gears up for playoffs. 

Key Players To Watch

Saturday will be an exhilarating return of Paula Balekana, a powerhouse and a frequenter of the try zone this season. He will be back on the wing, stutter stepping and flying through the home pitch and residing in the try zone. 

 With ten tries this season and the recent achievement of his 50th cap, Balekana continues to be an important asset to the Free Jacks and constant threat to opposition defenses. Tune in on Saturday to watch one of MLR’s in-form attacking talents..

 Keep an eye out for the return to the line-up of premier MLR centers, Ben Lesage and Wayne van der Bank who will be looking to command the gainline. The Free Jacks welcome back powerful forwards, including the un-relenting Andrew Quattrin, Internationals Sam Caird and Jone Koroiduadua, as well as the devastating back row, Jed Melvin. 

 Come out on Saturday to support the team in what is a high stakes Eastern Conference fixture, with the Free Jacks looking to secure home-field advantage for the playoffs. 

Coaches Comments

“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. Expect the Free Jacks to physically take DC on & look to unleash the ever vibrant Paula Balakena!”

Special Game Elements: Happy Memorial Day! 

With Memorial Day weekend finally here, the town of Quincy and the New England Free Jacks are proud to honor those who have served and those who have fallen for our country. This Saturday, the Free Jacks will be hosting a Tribute to the Troops festival, celebrating rugby, service and pride. 

 A cheers to freedom, liberty and America, the festival will honor those who have served with live music, cold drinks, delicious food and of course, gritty rugby. As the Free Jacks and Old Glory DC battle it out on the pitch in their red, white and blue uniforms, we remember the gratitude and appreciation we hold for those who have laid their lives down to protect our freedom. Every beer cheers’d, every tackle smacked down and every laugh shared with fans is to honor the true patriots around us. Gates open at 1 PM and the Fan Zone opens up at 3 PM. We hope to see you there!

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