USARL Crowns a New National Champion
The Boston 13s continued their outstanding form, defeating the Atlanta Rhinos by 44 points to 12. This is Boston’s first Championship with their only other opportunity coming in 2012 when they lost to Jacksonville.
By Julian Clarkstone / Photos Courtesy of Lisa Volpe
The match was held at the University of North Florida, Jacksonville, in conditions that were not ideal for rugby league, yet both teams still managed to put on an exciting display for fans watching both at the game and online. The conditions were aptly defined by Spinner Howland in commentary. “It’s a great day for the ducks,” Howland stated.
Marcos Flegmann captain of the Boston 13s celebrates along with Peter Illfield, Chairman of the USARL
The 13s led 4-0 early in the match before play was suspended because of lightning. However, this did not halt the momentum of the 13s, running in 44 points thanks to tries from Kane Bentley (3), Kiwa Oakes, Liam Georgetown, Urban Iyo, Craig MacKenzie and Lawrence Crilley. To top that off, Georgetown kicked 6 goals from 8 attempts. This was a particularly notable performance as the 13s were missing star player and five-eighth, Dustin Cooper.
The Atlanta Rhinos showed some poor discipline that hurt them at times, but their effort couldn't be questioned. The Rhinos scored two tries, including one by Kwame Little, who ran 90 yards to score in a great foot race. The Rhinos performed admirably and the achievement of playing in the Championship Final is particularly impressive for them as they are only in their second USARL season. USARL Chairman, Peter Illfield, echoed this sentiment.
“Congratulations are extended to Robin Peers and the Boston 13s achieving 2015 USARL Champions. In getting the best result, Boston 13s capitalized on there import players who dominated the match. Atlanta Rhinos put up an extraordinary performance considering their circumstances, no imports nor a constant coach throughout the season,” Illfield said.
Liam Georgetown MVP of the 2015 USA Rugby League National Championship
The fans received a double dose of rugby league with the Championship Final being preceded by the North vs. South All Stars clash. This match gave players (who were not in the final) the chance to impress selectors in the hope of making the USARL pre-select squad for Rugby the League World Cup Qualifiers later this year against Canada and Jamaica. The South won the match 34-20 with a strong finish to the game, after trailing 18-20.
Both matches were broadcast online to American and International viewers via iknowjax.com. Fans from around the world were sending in messages of support from the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Australia. A notable mention was former Australian Rugby League star Lote Tuqiri, who was shown in his Rhinos jersey on Facebook.
In more great news for the USARL Championship Final, Moe's Southwest Grill sponsored the event. They showed their support for the growth of rugby league in the U.S. and hosted a VIP tent at the game. Similarly, the efforts of Spinner Howland and the South East Rugby League really helped to provide another spectacular event in Jacksonville.
“A big thanks goes to them, they put on another exceptional event which was unfortunately marred by heavy storms. Spinner was never deterred though, and the players returned to complete the match in front of an encouraging crowd,” Illfield stated.
Despite the poor weather conditions, the USARL Championship Final was a big success for rugby league in America. Congratulations to the Boston 13s and the Atlanta Rhinos on their excellent seasons and bring on 2016!