The New England Free Jacks made history on Saturday by capturing their first Major League Rugby championship title with a nail-biting 25-24 victory over the San Diego Legion. The Free Jacks, who finished the regular season with a stellar 16-2 record, showcased their determination and skill in a back-and-forth match that had fans on the edge of their seats.

Inside center Le Roux Malan sealed the win for the Free Jacks with a game-winning try just five minutes before the final whistle. Fly-half Jayson Potroz, who was named Player of the Match, contributed crucial kicks throughout the game. The victory marks a major milestone for the six-year-old Quincy-based MLR franchise and has generated excitement among fans and officials alike.

The Free Jacks' impressive championship win is hoped to "shift the needle" and attract more attention to the sport and the team itself, according to general manager Tom Kindley. With Boston's other professional sports teams experiencing recent setbacks, the Free Jacks' success offers a promising addition to the city's sporting tapestry.

Both the Free Jacks and the Legion entered the final as highly-regarded teams in the league, but it was the Free Jacks who ultimately prevailed. Despite the loss, the Legion's strong performance throughout the season, finishing with a 16-2 record, solidifies their position as a formidable force in the league.