By Aaron Wilson
Standing outside the SaberCats’ locker room, Pote Human reflected on what an opening-game victory over the Utah Warriors means in terms of the bigger picture outlook for the Major League Rugby franchise.
The veteran coach’s immediate takeaway from a 22-15 win: There’s a lot of room for improvement.
As the SaberCats travel for a Western Conference road match against RFC Los Angeles set for Sunday, Human and director Heyneke Meyer are pleased with the result.
They both emphasized there’s a lot of potential that still needs to be fulfilled with a talented squad that includes nine new starters.
“We have to recover and build on this performance and go to Los Angeles,” Human said. “It’s a long trip, but the guys won and we’ll be positive. The attitude will be right. I’m looking forward to this week.”
The SaberCats won their first game behind tries from Tautalatasi Tasi, a newcomer center, as well as first-team All-Major League Rugby selection Johan Momsen who was acquired in a trade from the Atlanta franchise during the offseason.
Getting multiple new players acclimated to the SaberCats’ system and culture has been a major priority.
“We need some depth, definitely with domestic players,” Human said. “We have good depth with international players.” From a team-building standpoint, the chemistry is developing fast.“You can feel it,” Human said. “The guys are very close to each other and play for each other. Everybody is a happy family. We just have to build on this performance.”
Los Angeles is coming off a 32-29 loss to open the season, getting off to an 0-1 start.
Meyer is upbeat about the SaberCats’ outlook. He emphasized the need to stay “humble,” and grounded going forward, but he is encouraged overall.
“I’m happy with the start,” Meyer said. “I thought it was a great start.”
The SaberCats are holding a Watch Party at Platypus Brewing, the official beer partner of the Major League Rugby franchise.
“We’ve got a good week of prep for this next game,” Pono Davis said. “That’s what we’re looking for.”
Tasi is encouraged by the team’s start and how he’s fitting into the lineup.
“Very honored,” said Tasi, the Live Oak Man of the Match against the Warriors. “We’ve got a whole new squad. We just try to play smart. “
Off to a 1-0 start, the SaberCats are looking to come home 2-0 before they host the Miami Sharks on March 16 at SaberCats Stadium in the third match of the season.
“We’re off to a nice start,” wing Jeremy Misailegalu said. “We just need to keep that up and keep pushing to be the best.”
