New England Free Jacks vs. Old Glory DC
Sunday, March 22 | 5:00 PM EST | Maryland Soccerplex, Boyds MD
Watch live on ESPN+ 

After a thrilling home opener, the two-time defending champion New England Free Jacks are back on the road for a critical Eastern Conference clash against Old Glory DC on Saturday, March 22, at the Maryland Soccerplex. The match kicks off at 5 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on NBC Sports Boston and ESPN+.

Recent Form and Standings

The Free Jacks (2-0-2, 11 points) are coming off an electrifying 35-31 victory over NOLA Gold, secured by a dramatic stoppage-time try from Jed Melvin. New England currently sits in third place in the Eastern Conference, trailing Old Glory DC (2-0-2, 12 points) by a single point. A win on Saturday could see the Free Jacks leapfrog DC into second place, keeping pace with the first-place Chicago Hounds (4-0-1, 19 points).

Old Glory DC enters the match looking to rebound from a hard-fought 30-26 loss to Chicago last week. Despite the defeat, Perry Humphreys was a standout performer for DC, recording a hat trick. The home side will be eager to defend their turf and avenge their 2024 Eastern Conference Semifinal loss to the Free Jacks.

Key Matchups and Players to Watch

New England Free Jacks

• Wian Conradie: Played a full 80 minutes against NOLA Gold, leading the charge with 21 carries, 12 tackles, and a try.

• Jed Melvin: The match-winner last week, Melvin has been in excellent form and was named to the MLR’s First XV for Week 5.

• Joe Johnston: Ranked third in the league for total tackles (64), Johnston’s defensive presence will be crucial against Old Glory’s attack.

Old Glory DC

• Perry Humphreys: Coming off a hat trick performance, Humphreys is a constant attacking threat for DC.

• Cory Daniel: A defensive powerhouse with 62 tackles on the season, he’ll look to contain the Free Jacks’ dynamic backline.

• Jason Robertson: A key playmaker with 24 points on the season, Robertson will be instrumental in guiding DC’s attack.

Head-to-Head History

The Free Jacks have had the upper hand in recent meetings, winning the last two matchups, including a 33-29 victory in the 2024 Eastern Conference Semifinals. However, Old Glory DC edged out a narrow 35-34 win in their first 2024 regular-season meeting. Expect another tightly contested battle between these two rivals.

What’s at Stake?

With only one point separating these teams in the standings, this match is pivotal for playoff positioning. The Free Jacks aim to continue their momentum from last week’s dramatic win, while Old Glory DC looks to defend home turf and solidify their spot as a top contender in the East.

Tune in on NBC Sports Boston or ESPN+ at 5 p.m. ET on March 22 to catch all the action.

Coach’s Outlook

“After a last minute win which required 18 phases of patience to draw a defensive error from NOLA the team has taken a lot of heart from the ability to finish strong – Looking to DC the team is building cohesion through connections across the field & looking forward to manifesting an inspiring and hearty performance.”

What’s Next?

After facing the Old Glory the Free Jacks will be looking to their next home game in two weeks time. 

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