A yellow card to scrumhalf Phil Mack and a penalty try got the Seattle Seawolves off on the wrong foot, leading to the San Diego Legion taking down the defending MLR champions 17-13 Saturday in San Diego.

The Legion ran out to a 17-3 halftime lead and held on from there.

Meanwhile, the Utah Warriors opened their account with a win at Austin, 17-9.

Arawa Elkington in the first five minutes and Lance Williams added the second try just past the first half’s midway point.

Elkington was named player of the game.

“This was a great way to start the season. It was a very physical game and showed us some room for improvement but overall I was pleased by the effort of the boys,” said head coach Alf Daniels. “We have work to do as we prepare for San Diego on the 17th but looking forward to a big season.”

Added Elkington: “This is great momentum going into the season. Starting off with a win on the road sets the tone for everything. Austin played a great game and the competition, including Austin, will only continue to get better as the season goes on.”

In yet another close game, NOLA Gold defeated Glendale 40-31. 

That leaves the Gold at 2-0 in this young season, while Utah, Houston, and RUNY are 1-0. Seattle and San Diego sit 1-1, while Glendale (0-2), Austin (0-2), and Toronto (0-1) are yet to find a win.