UTAH WARRIORS

Utah Warriors Refreshed Following Bye, Ready For NOLA Gold

Mar 16, 2023, 5:41 PM

BY BRIAN PREECE
Digital Producer

HERRIMAN, Utah – Last week’s bye came at just the right time for the improving Utah Warriors, according to head coach Greg Cooper.

The Warriors (2-1, 9 points) play their second consecutive fixture on the road, taking on NOLA Gold (1-3, 5 points) on Saturday, March 18 at 1 p.m. (MT). Utah enters the weekend fourth in the MLR Western Conference. NOLA Gold is fifth in the east.

Back at it this week 💼#ForTheNation pic.twitter.com/oETS6xHnAB

— Utah Warriors Rugby (@utwarriorsrugby) March 13, 2023

“I think the important thing is that we had a chance to refresh,” Cooper said. “We’ve had eight weeks together, so it was a good chance to mentally refresh. Physically get some energy back as well.”

The Warriors returned from the bye week with a renewed enthusiasm.

“Coming back, the boys have shown a lot of energy and enthusiasm. There’s a bit of spring in their step this week so I think the bye came at a great time.”

NOLA Gold (1-3, 5 points)

The Gold crushed the New York Ironworkers 31-5 last week for they’re first win of the season. It was the first time they had topped 16 points this year.

“They’re a good outfit,” first-year Warrior Joel Hodgson said as the Warriors prepare to face the Gold. “They like to move the ball around. They’ve got a couple of good playmakers that spot space well and can put the ball in behind you. They really like the physical stuff.”

“We feel we’ve done our homework but by no means is it going to be an easy ride for us. We’ve come up with a few things we’ve added in training. If we perform the way Utah can, I’m confident in what these guys can do.”

Up Next

The Warriors will be in New Orleans this weekend to take on the NOLA Gold at The Gold Mine. This fixture is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. (MT) on Saturday, March 18.