Seawolves dominate Jackals in 74-7 win to stay in playoff hunt
By Charles Hamaker
Tukwila, WA – The Seattle Seawolves rumbled to a big blowout victory over the Dallas Jackals. The final score ended 74-7, which not only sets the record for the most point scores in a match, but also the biggest score margin in MLR history. With their victory, the Seawolves gained enough points to thrust themselves back into the third Western Conference playoff spot for the time being.
Ina Futi attempts a pass (Photo by Melissa Levin)
You score a try, you score a try, nearly everybody scores a try!
The Seawolves came out of the gate ready to dominate the Jackals, who came into the match 0-12 in their inaugural season. Seattle put the ball down for eleven tries, setting a major league rugby record. Seven different players scored tries for the Seawolves, including team captain Riekert Hattingh. Hattingh was one of four Seawolves that scored twice. His two tries, the ninth and tenth of the season for the number eight, put him in the league lead for tries on the season. Hattingh has played well all season for Seattle, and the captain continues to lead by example for the Seawolves. The production that Seattle’s number eight has shown should be inspiring for his teammates.
Riekert Hattingh rumbles with the ball (Photo by Melissa Levin)
Staying alive, staying alive!
Following a tough loss last week to the Western Conference leading Austin Gilgronis, Seattle seemingly needed to win out if they wanted to secure a spot in the postseason. With Houston and San Diego also vying for that third and final spot in the playoffs, there is no room for error. Coming into the match, Seattle held the fourth playoff spot and was only a few points ahead of Houston who sat in fifth. The battle for that third and final spot in the Western Conference will surely come down to the wire as the 2022 regular season reaches its end. Seattle faces three playoff or near playoff teams to end their season. Firstly, they take on second in the East New York, then they face Houston in their final home match of the season. Finally, Seattle travels down to Los Angeles to battle the second in the West Giltinis. The road to the playoffs does not get any easier for the two-time champs.
Seattle celebrates yet another try as the MLR’s first female lead referee Kat Roche signals it (Photo by Melissa Levin)
What’s next?
Seattle’s next competition takes place against Rugby New York, with a 12PM PST match start. On May 15th, the Seawolves battle New York at JFK stadium. Seattle, currently third place in the Western Conference, takes on New York, sitting at second place in the Eastern Conference. This game will be stream on Root Sports plus if you are local, otherwise you can always watch on “The Rugby Network.”
