US Players Make Key Contributions In Pros
US Players Make Key Contributions In Pros
A look at what professional players did over the weekend.
This was an off weekend for the USA Men's National Team but not necessarily an off weekend for the players.
While some were able to not play a competitive game, still others were in action for their professional clubs—for some this was an excellent opportunity to showcase solid form.
Tevita Tameilau was one of those. Coming on for Glasgow in a crucial Guinness PRO14 game, Tameilau showcased his athleticism, speed, and ability to read the game by scoring this superb try.
AJ MacGinty went back to Sale, and he will stay there for the remainder of the ARC. He played 80 minutes in a loss. Also in action, Titi Lamositele saw about eight minutes of time coming on as a sub for Saracens. Greg Peterson (see above) came on as a sub for Bordeaux-Bégles, and he was really solid, slamming opponents to the ground and logging some big carries.
Will Hooley had a nice outing for the Bedford Blues, and in fact set up one of the tries of the weekend (see his grubber for Rich Lane).
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Paul Lasike was officially available for selection, but was under suspension and so couldn't play for Harlequins. That worked out for the USA, as his suspension is now over and he can play for the Eagles this weekend. Ben Landry started for the Ealing Trailfinders and was part of their winning effort before leaving with a suspected concussion. He was just cleared and will join the USA team this week.
David Ainuu was available for selection but not used by Toulouse, while domestically Malon Al-Jiboori (Glendale), Dylan Audsley, Kipeli Pifeleti, Nick Boyer, Mike Te'o (all San Diego), Nate Brakeley, and Dylan Fawsitt (both RUNY) all saw MLR action. Fawsitt scored a try in New York's win over NOLA Gold.
But the rest all got time to rest up, and that will be good for the USA going forward.