In their first game of the season, Sao Paulo Saracens put in a confident performance to defeat Jacarei 24-7 away from home.
Jacob Mangin’s side’s convincing display in Paraíba Valley signaled Saracens’ intentions to challenge for the state title this year as Jacarei struggled to compete with the quality on show from Sarries.
Sao Paulo Saracens were dominant from the start, squandering numerous chances to take the lead before Marcelão touched down to give his side a well-deserved try. Josh Reeves, who has been in scintillating form since joining the club, successfully converted.
Reeves then brought his total to 5 points with a penalty, giving Sao Paulo Saracens a 10-0 lead as the sides headed for the break.
The second half started in similar fashion to the first, with Saracens on the front foot putting the pressure on Jacarei. The home side finally folded as Marcelão scored his second try of the game before Josh Reeves stepped up to see his kick fly between the posts.
Reeves went on to score a try of his own and converted to put his side 24-0 up. As the heat settled in Jacarei, Sao Paulo Saracens reshuffled their pack to give some respite and others game time.
With an exhausted Saracens struggling to find the same kind of rhythm they had earlier in the encounter, the home side too advantage of some lax play to score a consolation try to finally lose 24-7.
Speaking after the game, scorer Marcelão said: “Overall the game was very positive. We imposed our style from the beginning and pressed Jacarei. Our strategy worked perfectly until 20 minutes from time, when we were exhausted and gave space to our opponents.”
Sao Paulo Saracens play the second round of the championship on April 11th, when they travel to Indaiatuba to face Tornados.
Full Time Score: Jacarei 7 Sao Paulo Saracens 24
