MLR Team of the Week

It was a bit of an odd weekend with poor weather affecting the double-header in Georgia and an unexpectedly low-scoring California Cup match. There were moments of individual brilliance to keep us entertained and some creative selections that resulted in one very unique choice in the forwards.

1 – Rob Brouwer (Toronto Arrows) Not the result he was looking for but it was great to see the old warhorse back in action. Brought a bit of starch to Toronto’s fading pack and incredibly went 75 minutes having not played at all since last year. Not bad for 38 years young.

2 – Hugh Roach (Austin Gilgronis) It was tempting to pick Diego Fortuny as he tried to single-handedly revive the SaberCats in Atlanta. Roach had an exceptional match for the AG’s, scoring two tries and fizzing around the pitch in defense for a full 80 minutes.

3 – Dino Waldren (NOLA Gold) Another front rower who put in a long shift, Waldren danced with Brouwer in the scrum and put in the work around the pitch. Made a few big sticks in the tight-loose. Now set to travel with the Eagles to the UK as a replacement for Titi Lamositele.

4 – Dave Dennis (LA Giltinis) One could have forgiven the Giltinis for taking a bit of an off-day given the result meant little to them and so many players had dropped out. Instead Dennis led his side to a fine victory, taking charge in the lineout to secure a huge amount of possession.

5 – Rhyno Herbst (Seattle Seawolves) His first selection to this team since way back in Week 1. Herbst is starting to creep closer to his undoubted potential after a bit of work on his fitness. Against the AG’s he was a physical force on both sides of the ball while also being busy at the lineout.

6 – Angus Cottrell (LA Giltinis) The iron man of LA this season. His try early in the second half was yet another example of the willpower he has shown all season. No doubt gave his ‘new’ flanker partner a few tips before kickoff.

7 – Bill Meakes (LA Giltinis) A few heads were scratched when the actual lineup was revealed but Meakes did remarkably well to play in the back row for an hour. His excellent work in the breakdown continued when he switched back to the midfield for the final 20. Honorable mention to his opposite Chris Robshaw of San Diego and ATL’s Ross Deacon.

8 – Jason Damm (Rugby ALT) We’re close to starting a petition for selection to the Eagles. Damm has been a revelation for the Ratlers this season and was again a titan on both sides of the ball against Houston. Would have made the grade even without his two tries.

9 – Harrison Goddard (LA Giltinis) Knew that more would be required with a depleted squad and came up with the goods. His kicking and passing were top notch, bossed the pack, and produced a crucial line break to set up the winning try for John Ryberg.

10 – Kurt Morath (Austin Gilgronis) It’s been hard to figure out the AG backline selections at times this season. Morath didn’t really look at home in the midfield but relished the chance to play at his favored flyhalf spot against Seattle and delivered with a fine effort including four kicks off the tee that proved the difference. Luke Carty’s tactical kicking was excellent for LA.

11 – Julián Domínguez (NOLA Gold) Didn’t quite get to show us his class during the shortened season last year but is making up for lost time. One of the form finishers in MLR this season, he added another brilliant solo effort to his highlight reel against the Arrows.

12 – JP du Plessis (NOLA Gold) Squared off against another strong performer in Toronto’s Spencer Jones. du Plessis challenged the gainline repeatedly and was his usual physical presence in defense, winning one important breakdown turnover.

13 – Frank Halai (Austin Gilgronis) One of two midfield giants staring across at each other, Halai was the man left standing at the end. Didn’t get a lot of chances but made the most of the ones he did, while providing sound enough defense.

14 – Lauina Futi (Seattle Seawolves) The 25-year-old has come out of nowhere to mark himself as an automatic selection on the right wing for the Seawolves. His hat trick against the AG’s was something to behold, and it will be fascinating to see how he responds to extra attention now that everyone in the league is aware of his ability. John Ryberg was an unlucky runner-up.

15 – Glenn Bryce (LA Giltinis) Showed no signs of the ankle injury that kept him out previously. Bryce gave San Diego fits with his counter attacking and sent a couple howitzers downfield. Mack Mason did well out of position for the AG’s.