Greetings Mystics,
This past Saturday, Mystic River played in their third ARP match of the season against rival Boston Irish Wolfhounds. Despite the harsh elements and aggressive play by the Wolfhounds, Mystic River came out victorious winning the match 28-11 and improving to 2-1 on the season.
In slippery and wet conditions, the first half was a gritty battle between the two teams as they exchanged field position and turnovers. The Mystics were the first team to score when fullback Nick Fujiwara touched down a try in the 12th minute. Center Alatasi Tupou slotted the conversion and gave Mystic River an early 7-0 lead. The remainder of the half saw both teams unable to score until the Wolfhounds broke the deadlock in the final minute of the half through a penalty kick that took the half time score to 7-3.
After making halftime adjustments, the Mystics able to extend their lead when Tupou scored a self-converted try to make the score 14-3. The Hounds responded with another penalty kick, reducing their deficit to 14-6. At the 55th minute, Mystic River had a lineout at the Wolfhounds 5 meter line and, after a few phases, Hooker Diego Maquieira found the try line for a hard-fought try. Tupou was able to slot the conversion once again extending the lead to 21-6. Tupou’s day wasn’t over, though. In the 73rd minute, Tupou picked up his 2nd try and slotted his 4th conversion of the day. Tupou was perfect on the day converting all four tries and scored 18 of the team’s 28 points. Despite allowing a last minute try to the Wolfhounds, the Mystics were able to hold onto their lead and win the match 28-11.
This match was a career highlight for four Mystic players as they made their 1st career ARP start. These players were hooker Diego Maquieira, lock Thomas Thekaekara, lock Gianni Miceli, and wing Adnan Kawuma.
Head Coach Josh Smith recognized the solid work from Maquieira and flanker Jon Kokinda as they helped control the gain line in the forward pack. He also recognized that a lot of hard work will need to be put in this week prior to Saturday’s ARP match against New York Athletic Club.
Prior to Saturday’s ARP match, the Mystic Old Boys suited up for an old rivalry match versus the Wolfhounds. Despite not being able to find the try zone and allowing a number of tries, the Old Boys represented the club well and had fun playing in their second match of the season. The Old Boys’ next match will be October 15th against Boston RFC in Weymouth prior to the ARP match that week.
Next weekend, Mystic River will host another Doubleheader! At 1pm, the Division 1 team will host NYAC in an ARP matchup. After the conclusion of that match, the Division 2 Barbarians will face NYAC’s B-side for an exhibition match after having a bye this week. This will be another great weekend to come out and support the Monsters of Malden, so we hope you can attend!
Upcoming Schedule
10/8 (SAT) 1:00pm – D1/ARP vs. NYAC
10/8 (SAT) 3:00pm – D2 vs. NYAC B-side
Thank you to all our sponsors and Mystic Nation for your unwavering support!
GO BLUE !!