As for the decision to play in the MLR, Hodgson became excited for the opportunity after talks with his agent, among other factors.

“We’ve always wanted to experience a different culture,” Hodgson said. “Ten years ago the only two options for a guy from England were somewhere in the UK or France or Japan…But the MLR has come forward with leaps and bounds, and I think you’re going to see a lot of guys come over. It’s a fantastic country.”

The focus for the Warriors (2-1) turns toward the Nola Gold (1-3) this weekend as the team travels to New Orleans coming off a buy week which Cooper believes served his team well.

“What was really important is that we got a chance to refresh,” Cooper said. “We’ve now been here eight weeks together, so it was a good chance to get some energy back, as well. That was a great week for everyone to get away…I think the bye came at a good time.”

Both teams come into the match off what could easily be considered their best performances on the year, with Utah taking a 14-10 road win over the Chicago Hounds and NOLA notching a resounding 31-5 victory over the New York Ironworkers.

“Nola doing what they did against New York is actually a blessing in disguise,” Hodgson said. “They’ve always been capable, and if you watch the three games prior to that, they were in those games up until the last 20 or 30 minutes. They’re a good outfit.”

For the Warriors, the focus heading into the match will be putting forth the offensive prowess they showed in a 33-25 win over the Dallas Jackals and match it with the stellar defense shown in the win over the Hounds.

“If we perform the way we can, and if we get that 80 minute performance…then I’m pretty confident about what these guys can do,” Hodgson said. “But we have to be on our A game because NOLA is a strong team.”

UTAH WARRIORS VS. NOLA GOLD

DATE: SATURDAY, MARCH 18

TIME: 1:00 PM MST

WHERE: THE GOLD MINE, NEW ORLEANS, LA.

BROADCAST: KMYU, TRN, ESPN700, KSLSPORTS.COM