Anthem Makes History With First Ever Win In Opener

Anthem takes down California Legion 39-26 in 2026 season opener

Anthem Rugby Carolina secured their first ever Major League Rugby victory with a commanding display against California Legion, running in six tries to three in a performance that suggests the franchise has turned a decisive corner.
After 32 matches without a win, a rebuilt Anthem squad — and only three weeks into their preparation — delivered a display of defensive intensity and clinical attacking play that belied their lack of time together. Connor Mooneyham scored twice in a dominant first half, Campbell Robb drove over from a lineout maul, and second-half tries from Erik Storti, Baden Godfrey and Ramiro Gurovich sealed a result that was rarely in doubt.
Legion showed fight throughout and scored four tries of their own, but were unable to sustain pressure against an Anthem defense that simply refused to give ground. Even when reduced to 13 players either side of the break, Anthem held firm, most notably when the TMO upheld a held-up ruling after a concerted Legion drive early in the second half.
Man-of-the-Match Conner Mooneyham showed speed and skills outwide, scrum-half Zion Going was outstanding in dictating tempo, while Johan Momsen led from the front with a relentless defensive shift. James Scott was a picture of reliability at the lineout, Will Sherman marked his MLR debut with a physical and composed performance, and Jordan Trainor provided experienced calm at fullback. Luke Carty’s game management was assured and his distribution impeccable.
A historic day for Anthem Rugby Carolina, and one that suggests the long wait for a second win may not take nearly as long.