Watch: Joey Mano’s bulldozing try sends California Legion into MLR final

Legion were the first team to book their place in the 2026 final after a narrow, and thrilling 43-34 victory over the Seattle Seawolves.

Tries from Legion winger and former USA Eagles flyer Joey Mano, and Jason Damm helped the first-year franchise overcome the Seawolves, despite scores from Rufus McLean and Davy Coetzer.

The first try of the semi-final came from the former USA winger, Mano, down the left-hand touchline.

It all started in the middle of the field, with Australian-born Billy Meakes firing a pass to Lance Williams, who found Mano in space.

The two-Test Hawaiian-born winger opted for the direct route to the try-line, barging his way over Duncan Matthews to open proceedings.

 

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The Seawolves were determined to find their way to 2026’s final, with Coetzer nailing every opportunity off the tee during the second half.

The Californian-based MLR franchise then rolled up their sleeves deep inside the Seawolves’ half, using a short pass to take the lead.

Legion’s replacement Ronan Murphy saw a gap open up in the Seawolves defence, darting through a hole under the posts.

 

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The away side’s final try of the contest was an efficient rolling maul from inside the Seawolves’ red zone, where Ale Lopeti found himself with the ball over the line.

Miln converted the try before the Legion were forced to absorb ten minutes of ferocious Seawolves attack to hold on and reach their first final as an MLR franchise.

The Hounds and Old Glory will battle on Tuesday NZT to determine who the second 2026 finalist will be alongside the Legion.