NOLA Gold falls short on the road against the San Diego Legion
Tina Howell • May 5, 2025
In an intense battle marked by big plays and momentum swings, NOLA Gold came up just short against the San Diego Legion, falling 45-36 in a thrilling contest on the West Coast. Despite the loss, NOLA secured a valuable bonus point by scoring four tries, a testament to the team's determination throughout the match.
San Diego struck first, powering ahead with two early tries to take a quick 14-0 lead. NOLA Gold responded with determination, as Moni Tonga'uiha broke through defenders and touched down in the try zone to cut into the deficit at 14-7. The Legion answered right back with another converted try to make it 21-7.
NOLA came roaring back. Tonga'uiha sparked the comeback once more, finishing off a well-structured attack to notch his second try of the night. Harley Wheeler followed up minutes later with a determined run, diving over the line for another score. Reece Botha capped off the flurry with his own try, giving the Gold an impressive 24-21 lead heading into halftime.
After the break, San Diego regained momentum with an early try to pull ahead 28-24. NOLA quickly countered with a smartly executed kick-and-chase by Cooper Coats, setting up Damian Stevens for a dazzling try that restored the Gold’s lead at 31-28.
The Legion, however, surged late in the second half, scoring three unanswered tries to create a 45-31 advantage. Harley Wheeler punched in a late try in the 78th minute—his second of the match—to help NOLA close the gap to 45-36, but time ran out before the Gold could mount a final comeback.
Despite the loss, NOLA Gold walked away with a bonus point for the four tries scored in the match, demonstrating grit throughout the contest.
NOLA Gold will look to regroup and turn their attacking promise into a win as they return home to face the Miami Sharks on May 9th at 6:00 PM CT.
Tickets for the game, including ticket packages and individual match-day tickets, are available now. Fans can purchase tickets by calling 504-507-8429 (504-50-RUGBY) or visiting nolagoldrugby.com.
Matchday tickets start at just $25.
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