The Colorado XOs defeated the New Orleans Rugby Club 26-10 in the first game for the team of crossover athletes training in Glendale, Colo.

The XOs got tries from scrumhalf Michael Bandy, Shawn Clark, Malik Bryant, and Jarrell Patterson in a game where New Orleans led 3-0 early and were close at 19-10 at halftime.

Flyhalf Line Latu set up the first try and kicked three conversions. 

It was a useful start for the team of athletes from other sports, and while New Orleans isn't a professional team, it did field a number of players looking to break into the NOLA Gold setup. In addition, former Cleveland Brown and New Orleans Saint Johnson Bademosi, who played rugby for the USA U19s while at Gonzaga HS, was on the field for New Orleans.

Just a New Orleans Saint playing a little club rugby in the offseason while rocking his HS kit bag.

Totally normal.

Not cool at all. pic.twitter.com/DTl1bo7Mgp

— apatclifton (@ThePatClifton) February 27, 2021