The American Raptors finished it's season-opening three game road trip with a defeat in Uruguay against the defending champion Peñarol on Friday. The Raptors surprised the hosts with an opening converted try, but Peñarol showed their class and depth, jumping to a 22-7 lead at halftime, and finishing 37-7. A lengthy home stand at Glendale awaits.
Another sound defeat in Argentina Friday for the Raptors, but improvements were made vs. Los Pampas, especially in the second half. This Pampas team felt more aggressive in attack, creating fast counters and almost always overloading out wide and offloading when they score.
A sound defeat in Cordoba, but the Raptors recorded the first try of the season in the second half. It's still early, but it's going to be important to see how the Raptors respond next. This will always be a test of attrition and character in this competition.
After a first half of play to kick off the 2024 Super Rugby Americas season, the American Raptors trail Dogos XV 30-3. The Raptors showed good energy building up phases to open the game, but Dogos pulled away after it being 3-3. I treat Raptors as a special case since their backbone is unique.
It's more about how much the Raptors' crossover athletes can adapt to rugby than winning for me.
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Sy Hart