Match Report: Ironworkers Take Down Arrows in Toronto Thriller

rugbynewyork.com/ticketsThis was the second and last meeting between the two teams, who last faced off in Round 2. New York won that matchup 39-3 for their home opener at Mount Vernon Memorial Stadium.

Fast forward five weeks, and the Ironworkers traveled up north to take on their Eastern Conference opponent again, this time in their home opener. You can watch the match highlights here.

First Half:

The Ironworkers got off to a fast start - firstly through the boot of Jack Heighton in the third minute, and then through center Tei Walden (10th minute), who crossed over for his first try of the season. It was an orchestrated play off the lineout, featuring Heighton's sleight of hand to winger Quinn Ngawati, who broke the line and passed off to Walden to run it in untouched under the sticks. Ironworkers led 10-0.

Toronto hit back soon after through the fast feet of MLR debutant D'Shawn Bowen. The Ironworkers then struck again through another slick backline move, this time with Andrew Coe finishing it off. Toronto would strike back again through an electric try from Bowen again. It was 17 all. To finish off the half, Faasiu Fuatai barged over the line from close range to give New York the advantage heading into the break. The score was 24-17.

Second Half:

Similar to the first half, the Ironworkers got off to a hot start. Nick Feakes cut through the defensive line with some sharp footwork to put New York up by another 5. The score was 29-17.

Just when you thought New York was in control, Toronto would come roaring back to life through another try to Bowen (his hat-trick try) as well as a try to their Number 8, Lucas Rumball, shortly after. Both conversions missed, and the score was 29-27 to New York.

Now three-quarters through the game at the 60th-minute mark, both teams were putting in their all. It was a pulsating 20 minutes for both teams, with New York ultimately coming out on top with their bench providing some fresh legs.

What's Next:

It was a crucial win for the Ironworkers, who now head over to DC to take on Old Glory in another huge Eastern Conference battle. Following that matchup, they return home to New York to host one of the best teams in the league, the Houston Sabercats. You don't want to miss that one. To learn more and get tickets, click here.

Be a part of the journey of Rugby New York. Sign up below for your exclusive team insights, updates, and more!