Myers Park defeated Phoenix 38-29 Saturday in the first game of the Mid-South Independent Rugby League (MSIRL), a competition of top teams from the Carolinas and Georgia.

The North Carolina team got two tries from Adam Phifer and tries from Niklas Atzor, Matthew Start, and Ty Graham. They also got a penalty try, while lip Patterson kicking three conversions.

"Our center combination of Adam Phifer and Matthew Start played well for us today," said Myers Park Head Coach Tyree Reed. "They ran hard lines and their quick ball transfer help us spread the Alpharetta defense. They accounted for 21 of our 38 points.  We were just able to capitalized on their on mistakes. They had two knock-ons caused by our defense pressure that we turn into two tries for us."

It was a cold day in Charlotte, NC, and Myers Park scored two early tries to take the lead. Phoenix rebounded with some good player in the forwards, and their pressure produced a try and a penalty goal. But three makable penalties were missed, which made things a little tougher for the Georgia team.

"It was a classic case of one team dominating in the backs while the other dominated in the forwards," said Phoenix Head Coach Niall Fenton. "Myers Park used limited possession for their backs to score six tries to four tries. Myers Park fully deserved their win today and will trouble other MSIRL sides going forward. Phoenix were one dimensional on the day - you simply can't expect the forwards to win games on their own."

The MSIRL is a competition outside of state leagues. The teams involved will still play for their state championships, but will track their results within the MSIRL as a separate and distinct competition. Myers Park moves to 1-0.

All news on the MSIRL can be seen here.