We've got another six games on tap in the MLR as Round 5 gets underway this Friday night. Toronto and San Diego aim to stay undefeated, while Austin seeks its first win since 2018.
Here's the rundown, as well as some predictions:
Colorado Raptors vs Toronto Arrows
The Raptors (1-3) finally picked up their first win of the season a week ago against the Utah Warriors, which should give them some momentum heading into their Round 5 clash with the undefeated Arrows (4-0). If Rene Ranger can deliver another massive performance, as he did last game, the Raptors could be in with a shot.
For Toronto, it's about continuing to ride this wave of momentum. What's gotten them to 4-0 is a commitment to a balanced attack which keeps their opponents constantly questioning themselves. The Arrows can beat teams in a whole variety of ways, and their cohesiveness is what differentiates them from much of the pack.
Colorado has played better rugby as of late, but this one should still be pretty straight forward.
Prediction: Colorado 15-30 Toronto
NOLA Gold vs New England Freejacks
After coming oh-so-close to a big win over the unbeaten Legion last week, the Gold (2-2) are back at the Shrine on Airline looking to put on a great performance for the home crowd. NOLA figures to be one of the lead contenders in the East this year, but winning these conference matchups is a must if they intend to do so.
The Freejacks (1-3) continue life on the road, now playing their fifth consecutive match far away from the Northeast. They've had no trouble scoring points this season, but defense has been a soft point for them. They'll receive a big boost this week with the injured Tadhg Leader returning to the lineup.
This one could prove to be the most exciting match of the weekend, with two high-flying offenses and a forecast that calls for sunny skies.
Prediction: NOLA 35-28 New England
Houston Sabercats vs Austin Gilgronis
The Sabercats (1-3) looked great in Week 1 with a solid victory over the Colorado Raptors, but have since lost three straight. They have a strong forward pack and some playmakers in the backline, but they will simply have to curb the poor starts to games.
The Gilgronis (0-3-1) have still yet to win a game since 2018, but they've been getting awfully close. Just like Houston, Austin too has to come out of the gates better. They seem to always wait until the second half to get things in gear which, in a league like the MLR, is simply too long.
This one will be close, but with Austin's additions of Tonga international fly-half Kurt Morath, USA international fly-half/fullback Will Magie, and Samoa international scrum-half Pele Cowley, Austin will have more direction and more firepower in the backline than in weeks prior.
Prediction: Houston 19-23 Austin
Seattle Seawolves vs Utah Warriors
It took longer than expected, but the Seawolves (1-3) eventually notched their first win of the season a week ago against the Freejacks. They'll be at home again in front of a packed house on Saturday night looking to maintain some momentum. The return of Ben Cima at fly-half paid dividends last week, and he's sure to have a hand and a foot in much of what they do tomorrow night.
The Warriors (1-2-1) fell to the Raptors last week, and play their fifth consecutive road game here to start the season. They had trouble getting it going offensively in Round 4, and will need to sharpen up a bit to keep pace with a Seattle offense that likes to score.
This one has the makings of an entertaining affair, with the Seawolves taking the spoils.
Prediction: Seattle 40-24 Utah
Old Glory DC vs Rugby ATL
Old Glory (3-1) has been one of the best surprises of 2020 and, riding a three game win streak, are as hot as anyone at the moment. Despite a scrum that's struggled without Tendai Mtawarira, DC has found a way to win games. Their backline is phenomenal, and they play with good pace and skill all across the pitch.
Rugby ATL (2-2) has also had a pretty successful start to its professional livelihood this year. A pair of close losses to Toronto and New York are the only blemishes so far for Atlanta, and each of those were games they could have won. If they can cut out the silly penalties, Atlanta will be a very formidable team all year.
This game is arguably the most difficult to call on the weekend, and on its day either team could certainly claim the win. We'll go with Atlanta though, seeing as they've got maybe just a slight edge in the set piece.
Prediction: Old Glory 16-17 Atlanta
San Diego Legion vs Rugby United New York
The Legion (4-0) are one of just two undefeated teams remaining in the league, after surviving a scare down in the Bayou against NOLA a week ago. They have some injury concerns to sort out ahead of this weekend, but with their depth they ought to be alright.
RUNY (3-1) are on a roll with three straight wins, all on the road, and are looking in good shape as we move into the second quarter of the season. With a strong kicking game, a balanced attack, and a lethal set piece, RUNY have alot of ingredients for a strong campaign.
This is likely the marquee matchup of the weekend, and a rematch of last season's epic semifinal clash which the Legion won on a kick at the death. We think this one will be similarly close, but San Diego will have the home field advantage and that's going to make the difference.
Prediction: San Diego 24-21 New York