New Orleans, LA — The GOLD advanced to 2-0 on the back of a complete performance that netted a 34-19 win. With this 34-19 victory, the GOLD claim sole possession of first place in the Eastern Conference.
The scoring opened early for the GOLD in this one. Dougie Fife scored NOLA’s first try in the 7th minute off the back of a physical maul — a product of an advantageously-placed lineout.
The play proved the GOLD’s physical superiority that remained a theme for the rest of the match. This theme was reasserted in the 15th minute, when NOLA scored its second try to extend its lead to 14-0.
Both the result and actor was the same here; Dougie FIfe struck again to capitalize on an enterprising carry from Jordan Jackson-Hope. Before half, NOLA was able to build on its lead and establish a dominating 24-0 scoreline at the break.
Coming out of halftime, the question remained, “can this GOLD team close out a game in which it’s built an advantage?” Like week one, the answer was a resounding “yes.” While Anthem was able to recoup some of its lost points with a try, the GOLD were able to match suit in emphatic fashion. A resilient Charlotte effort gave way to a Golden flourish of attacking impetus that saw NOLA’s lead grow to 34-7. A head’s up play out of a scrum by Damian Stevens led to a straightforward carry for Jonah Mau’u. Mau’u’s consistent efforts — both on and off-ball — were finally rewarded with a try that all but cemented NOLA’s control of the match.
Anthem was able to muster offensive firepower that proved too little too late in the closing minutes. NOLA won the match, 34-19, to achieve its best season start in recent memory. Coach Cory Brown has the GOLD looking like a complete rugby squad heading into NOLA’s first away fixture against reigning champions New England Free Jacks. At 2-0, the GOLD should enter this match with confidence, but caution and remembrance of New England’s tactical acuity and offensive industry.
