BAFL: Premier

Hello and welcome to the Keepmaot stadium. We are in Doncaster for the BAFL Premier Final.

The London Blitz play the Coventry Jets and the game should be great. The Jets won the Championship last season against the Blitz and both teams are ready to take home the Boston Trophy.

I have interviews with both Coaches and a couple of players and both are 100% confident of winning today. Of course only one team can win, who that will be I couldn’t tell you.



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BAFL: Div 2 Final

By Daniel Ferdinand

Right now it's time for the Div 2 Final.

The Colchester Gladiators face the Leicester Falcons in the BAFL Div 2 final. The Keepmoat Stadium has seen five games so far today but this will be the high light of the day.

Who will win the win the battle of the head coaches, as Matt Roberts (Gladiators) battles Johnny Hopewell (Falcons)?

Follow the game here.



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BAFL: Youth Final

The next final on the list is the BAFL Youth final. This will be between the Farnham Fast Lane Knights and the Lancashire Wolverine Colts.

Farnham Fast Lane Knights v Lancashire Wolverine Colts

I will be keeping you all updated with the goings on in the game.



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BAFL: Junior Contact Football

Welcome to the Keepmoat Stadium in Doncaster. It’s a sunny Saturday morning and the place is a buzz of excitement.

You’ll be able to follow all the games today and tomorrow from the comfort of your own home.

Below you see my updates without you having refreshed your page.

First game up is the semi final between the Glasgow Tigers and the London Warriors. The second semi final sees the Clyde Valley Falcons face the Chorley Buccaneers. The winners of the two games will play after to find the 2009 National Champions.

Good luck to all the teams on show today.



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BAFL: The Cassidy Jets No More...

By Adam Etheridge

Whatever happens in Doncaster on September the 27th, one thing is for sure, the name Coventry Cassidy Jets won’t appear on the Boston Trophy this year. In a surprise announcement Jets’ General Manager Will White revealed that the lucrative naming rights deal with the Cassidy Group had come to an end. The announcement ends a partnership that had lasted four years and seen the Jets rise through the ranks to become one of Europe’s premier teams.

“We’ve made some incredible strides and achieved our goal of becoming National Champions with the Cassidy Group onboard” explained White, “It’s a sad day that we announce the end of their association with the club but it’s also an exciting time as we move forward and look to retain our title on Sunday”. The change means that the Jets revert back to their old name, Coventry Jets, and have another new logo, their fifth in the club’s six year history.

White also announced that the Club are still actively seeking new backing but are currently in advanced negotiations with two potential sponsors. “It’s looking pretty promising” stated White “we’ve been talking to a couple of firms for a little while and have made some excellent progress. I’m optimistic that one will be our headline sponsor for some time to come and that the other will also become a strong partner for the club. We’re always looking for fresh sponsorship, be it a gameday sponsor or even a company looking to individually sponsor a player”.

The new logo sees the removal of the swoosh under the name as well as a move to a darker shade of blue, meaning that the colours of the Cassidy Group will no longer feature. “The majority of fans never really went for the yellow in the logo or on the jersey’s sleeves so I’m sure it will prove more popular amongst them. The focus groups that we’ve already consulted helped us make a few tweaks and I’m sure the merchandise will be flying off the sleeves thanks to it”.

Preparations for Britbowl XXIII continue apace for the Jets and Head Coach Gerry McManus. The Championship game sees the Jets face up to the London Blitz for the third straight year as the pair continue to dominate British American Football. In two match ups so far this season the Blitz have won easily 28-0 and 32-0, however, they’re yet to face a full strength Jets team and with Mark Connolly returning to the defensive line Coventry should match up well against the overwhelming favourites.

“We went into Britbowl XXII with a 100% record and were expected to win comfortably after a convincing victory over the Blitz in the regular season” stated departing Jets’ Secretary Adam Etheridge, “but we all know that it didn’t turn out to be that easy and we had to fight for every yard against a well prepared Blitz team. This year the roles are reversed and I’m confident that if we execute our gameplan to perfection we can cause the upset. Coach Moss will have his boys ready to play and it will be a fierce contest that should go right to the wire”.


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BAFL: BFO meets Robin Pierce

By Daniel Ferdinand

Last week I conducted an interview with London Blitz Chairman Robin Pierce (left). Coach Pierce was kind enough to answer a few questions for BFO, so here's what he had to say.

Daniel Ferdinand: Since Mark Moss became Head Coach of the London Blitz the team has enjoyed great success, can you take all the credit for the appointment?

Robin Pierce: Ahhh, a straightforward question, but the answer is more complicated. Back at the beginning of the decade, Nick Rockell, Mark, and myself were all new to the Blitz, and it was very different from the club today. Neil Bowles became the club chairman, I became the vice chairman, and Nick Rockell became the head coach after the previous one left the club. At that point, Nick asked Mark to be his defensive coordinator, and the four of us started to sort things out. The next change was Neil leaving the club because of work commitments moving him away from London. I was then elected as chairman, the post I've held ever since. Nick left five years ago, again because work took him from the London area, and I asked Mark to take over as head coach. Having worked so closely with both Nick and Mark, I knew he was the right man for the position, and I never even considered anyone else. Mark is London Blitz through and through, and if he snapped in half, London Blitz would show in the broken ends like a stick of rock!!!! As for taking the credit, yes, I do, but this club does everything by consensus, and everyone wanted Mossy to be the one, so it wasn't exactly a difficult appointment to make.


DF: I would like to talk about last season, losing the final against the Jets by 1 point must have hurt the team?

RP: It's hard to put into words how much that hurt, and to have thrown away a big lead at half time; and finally to cap it all, to hear the dismay of the whole team (I couldn't watch!!!) as that ball went through the uprights with 4 seconds left on the clock. Well, you could have ripped my heart out and not hurt me more. The trip back to London was certainly different from the previous year. Everyone on the team last year was upset, and that's been transmitted to the players that have joined the team this year, so we're united in our desire to make sure it doesn't happen this year.


DF: Can your team focus on the game and not revenge?

RP: Revenge isn't what we're about. We had to accept that last year the Jets never let their heads drop, and they executed their game plan better than we did, resulting in lifting the trophy. This year, we've been incredibly focused on doing everything to get to the final, and we've achieved that emphatically. Now we have one more game to continue to do what we do best.


DF: About this season, being undefeated, does that make you the favourites?

RP: I've seen all the comments on the websites, and the majority of the pundits have us lifting the Boston Trophy again, but those who know the game also know that that old "Any given Sunday" phrase, while it sounds like a cliché, is the ultimate truth in any sport. So we don't kid ourselves.


DF: What do you believe has been the key to the teams success in 2009?

RP: Several things have improved this year. Our defense has been remorseless, and has dominated every team it's been up against. Special Teams have continually given our offense good field position, from kick return and punt return, and often our defense has been able to start well into our opponents half of the field as a result of good kicking and punting. We've always had a good offensive capability, with great players at all the skill positions. Actually, that's a term that annoys me, as it suggests that the line players are not skilled players. To me, nothing is further from the truth; without skilled linemen, the offense would have a miserable afternoon. Great coaching has made our O Line one of the best in UK football.


DF: And finally what will it take to win at the keeptmoat?

RP: The same ruthlessness that we've shown all season, and paying attention to the coaches.

I would firstly like to thank Robin Pierce for taking the time out and answer a few questions. I honestly can't wait to see this game, I know both teams will be confident about winning. Like I say, this one will be a hum-dinger.

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BAFL: BFO meets Adam Etheridge

By Daniel Ferdinand

I've been a busy bee this week. Here I was luckly to get some time with Adam Etheridge the Secretary of the Coventry Cassidy Jets.

The Jets are the defending Britbowl Champions and booked their place in the final with another win over the Bristol Aztecs.

Here is what Adam had to say.


Daniel Ferdinand: As the defending Britbowl Champions are you feeling the pressure?

Adam Etheridge: Not at all, in fact quite the opposite. We go into this game as heavy underdogs after losing to the Blitz twice this season. They've been great all year & everyone expects them to walk away with it much like we were expected to after our perfect season last year.


DF: In the final you will again be facing the London Blitz, are you sick of them yet?

AE: It's fair to say that over the past 3 seasons ourselves and the Blitz have been the dominant teams in Britball and as such we look forward to testing ourselves against them, Britbowl XXIII will be no different.


DF: You have had a rough time against the Blitz this year, how do you score against them?

AE: Yeah, we haven't managed it yet in two games this year. If it goes anything like last year we'll use the pass to open it up for the run. Their defensive front is fearsome and unless we can show them that we've got a few dimensions to our game it'll be a long day.


DF: Your quarterback Stuart Franklin played for the Blitz last year, who does that help the most, Franklin or the blitz defence?

AE: Stuart has worked tirelessly building towards this moment, he's put a lot of work into creating an offense that can take advantage of the Blitz's weaknesses. Their roster hasn't changed a great deal from last year so we know them quite well. We've been through a rebuilding process this season so Stuart will be able to take advantage of personnel that the Blitz won't know much about.


DF: Can you tell us, what you believe will be the key to your team winning?

AE: Like any game, it'll be won & lost in the trenches. We need to shut down London's running game and make sure we get pressure on Fred Boyle. We know what he can do when he has time but I'm pretty sure he can be rattled. I think it's going to be a very low scoring game and more akin to 2007 than 2008, a defensive score could be what decides the game. Above all we need to protect the ball and win the turnover battle.


DF: You have added a few new players since the start of the season, how have they settled in?

AE: After winning it all last year our roster had a bit of an enforced overhaul and we entered a rebuilding phase. Our success in getting to the final this year is credit to the guys that have come in and been able to settle and contribute straight away.

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The Rise of the Jets

By Adam Etheridge

The Jets are a relatively new club, founded as the Coventry Jaguars in 2004, however the sport has a long history in our city. Back in 1994 the first American Football team based in Coventry was called the Warwickshire Bears. Soon afterwards they became the Coventry Bears and won the Anglo Conference Central Division with an 8-2 record. The season included a narrow loss to the Oslo Trolls, the city’s first international game.

Two mergers followed. An unsuccessful one with the MK Bucks and then, in 1990, with the Walsall Titans, to form a dynamic new team called the Coventry Jaguars. The ‘Jags’ went onto record a perfect 10-0 season, the Division II Coca-Cola Bowl Championship and a notable win over the Upper Heyford Sky Kings. By 1993 Coventry found themselves in the Division 1 Super League, but it was a step too far. The signing of Cleveland Brown draftee Clemente Gordon bankrupted the club, which folded at the end of the season.

A decade later the Jaguars were reformed and started their first season in 2004, in the BAFL Division 2 South West. Despite a number of close games, the Jaguars went winless, 0-9-1. However, the club attendances and facilities were the best in the UK and the 2004/5 off-season saw some frantic activity as the Jaguars not only changed their name to the Jets but signed numerous GB Internationals such as Steve Coles and Tony Perkins as well as the mercurial Canadian QB Adam Lane.

The Jets were transformed. They ripped the BAFL Division 2 apart with a point-a-minute offense and one of the stingiest defenses in the history of the game (conceding just 7 points in the regular season and amassing over 600). The division was wrapped up by week 6 and the Jets romped into the Britbowl Division 2 final as firm favourites to beat the undefeated Kent Exiles. By half-time the perfect season for the Jets was apparently in tatters, as the southern team led 20-6. However, the Jets dominated the second half but still needed a last minute kick-off touchdown return from Perkins to take the title with a 30-26 come back victory.

The 13-0 Jets again recruited hard, now with the backing of the Cassidy Group as head line sponsors. Attendances grew to a record of 1,800 by the time the Jets were to meet the Kent Exiles in the 2006 1A semi-final in Coventry. Behind the arm of Chicago native Joe Wright and the catches of Cohen and Simms the Jets had again ripped the league apart, taking the scalp of the Birmingham Bulls on route with a 27-0 shutout. The new #1 team in the Midlands was also ranked #3 in the nation and any doubts about how much progress they had made was emphatically put to bed with the Jets thrashing of the Exiles 62-18. A comfortable 52-20 romp in the Britbowl 1A final over the Bristol Aztecs ensued and the season was rounded off with a win over the Irish National team to conclude a back-to-back perfect season. The winning streak was extended to 27-0 with a 49-0 romp over the Rhinos, Milan in early this year.

The Jets entered 2007 with a big squad, that included a lot of new faces. However, the import pair of Chris Foster and Woody Weathers failed to improve the team. Despite a narrow win over defending Britbowl Champion London O’s in front of 2,000 people at the Ricoh Arena the Jets were edged out of Europe by the Cinneplex Blue Devils in Austria. The domestic winning-streak also came to an end at the hands of the Blitz 28-24 in London, who repeated the trick 14-6 at Britbowl XXI. Nevertheless, they were great games and a terrific learning experience for a team still only 4 years old.

Entering 2008 ranked #2 in the UK and #15 in Europe the Jets enjoyed a Euro Campaign that took them into the Eurobowl quarter-finals on the back of a home victory over Valencia and a first road success over the Oslo Vikings. After falling to eventual Champions the Tirol Raiders, thoughts turned to the domestic campaign. A thrilling come from behind victory saw the Jets win Britbowl XXII, defeating defending Champions the London Blitz 33-32 on a 40 yard field goal with just 5 seconds left to play.

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BAFL: The BAFL Talk Back

By Daniel Ferdinand

There is only one simple way to say this, the Britbowl is coming.

Next weekend the UK Football world descends on Doncaster. The Keepmoat Stadium, home of the Doncaster Rovers soccer team and in the BAFL’s own Doncaster Mustangs welcomes six teams all looking to be National Champions.

Being National Champions show that your team is the best prepared and has executed your game plan the best.

Will your team be the Champions?

This week British Football Online (BFO) will help you through each of the six games coming from Doncaster.

Today I thought it was best to get to know the organisation who run our beautiful game.

So I asked Mark Blyth who is the Football Operations Director and Ken Walters the BAFL Chairman a couple of questions, here is what they said.


Daniel Ferdinand: How is organising the finals weekend going?

Mark Blyth: It's the normal frantic couple of weeks, it always is. But as of today (17th) we're pretty much on top of everything. Next week is a long week for me as I tend to spend a lot of time down at the Keepmoat Stadium helping out with the preparations, ie; overseeing the pitch markings and stuff like that. I'm like that, I like to be 'at the coal face' so to speak. It's not that I don't trust the guys down there, but I can be on hand if a question needs answering regarding anything to do with the event.


DF: Are you happy with how the season has gone?

MB: Not entirely. We've had major issues regarding Youth football this year in the sense that a lot of teams either pulled out before or during the season. It's not been easy for some of the teams as it's effectively reduced their season to 3 or 4 games which isn't ideal in anyone's eyes. So we need to address that. We've also had issues with there being not enough Officials to cover all our games. However I need to thank everyone that made a real effort ot help out by resheduling their games to make things work. We ended up losing only a fraction of the games we could have which, for me, was a result.


DF: Can you explain to us the BAFL's history with Doncaster Rovers and the Keepmoat Stadium?

MB: From 2000 we held our Finals at Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield and they did us proud for 8 years. But in 2008 we got word that we may have a problem. Basically Rotherham United were in deep trouble and were set to be booted out of Millmoor and their training ground by the Family that had owned them for so long. In the end the word became true as we were presented with the scenario that DVS had signed a primacy agreement with RUFC which meant that we couldn't hold our Finals there in 2008. To cut a longer story short, we decided to up sticks. The Keepmoat Stadium (well the Athletics Arena bit) had been home to my team (Doncaster Mustangs) since it opened in 2007 and we decided to ask them if they could step in at short notice. To be honest they were brilliant and and bent over backwards to help us. The dates we wanted fitted into Rovers schedule so we were able to rescue the situation. They must have been impressed as we are back again and looking to secure a longer term deal.


DF: Where do you see the BAFL over the next few years?

MB: We need to come good on the things we had intended to do for Youth and Junior football when we took over their operations in 2007/8. We have a Strategy meeting planned for November when we'll be inviting all Youth & Junior teams (both Kitted & Flag) to attend so we can thrash out a clear pathway for their spehere of the sport. It's not going to be a finger pointing session, we don't need to do that. What we need to do is find solutions to the problems we face. That's the immediate future. A bit further down the line for me is to establish a significant top division that is attractive to the public.


DF: What contact does the BAFL board have with the NFL?

Ken Walters: BAFL is a member association of BAFA – the National Governing Body. The protocol for a relationship with the NFL is, therefore, via them.


DF: Talking about next year, are there any new teams for next year?

MB: We have 2 new teams that are entering our Associate process this coming Autumn. How they perform during that time will determine whether or not they make it to full member status for 2010.


DF: Do the BAFL board have any sponsorship deals in the pipe line?

KW: The BAFA does not have any ‘irons in the fire at this time’. The economic climate is very tough at this time and we are focusing our efforts on the delivery of quality competitions for our member clubs.


DF: Back, in the 80's teams used to get crowds of around 7,000, how do we get there again?

MB: That's a tough question to answer and I'm not sure there is a simple answer. As I said before, one of my personal long term goals is to establish a top division that is attractive to spectators and sponsors alike. But it's going to take a lot of hard work from a lot of people to get there.


DF: What does the BAFL board do over the winter?

MB: Well we don't go into hibernation, that's for sure. As soon as this season is over, we start preparing for the next. We will be deciding the format for the competitions for 2010, getting in the applications for 2010, doing all our 'housework' from 2009...the list goes on. It's a 12 months of the year job.


DF: Finally, what are the British Lions up to this winter?

MB: Coach Ayub has a game planned against France for November which I'm hoping to be involved in organising. Actually I've done a little ground work for that already so hopefully it will get the nod. After that my guess is that they will be planning and preparing for the Euros next June or July. You'd have to speak to the Lions Coaches & Staff for a clearer picture of their plans.

I would like to thank Mark and Ken for their time in answering my questions. I hope this interview has given you an in sight into the weekend and the board.

Keep coming back this week for more Britbowl content each day.

Here is a map to show you how to get to the keepmoat. Why don't you join in on the fun.

Prices:

£10 Adults
£5 Under 16's & Seniors
Under 10's free





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NFL: Tom Brady Returns

By Daniel Ferdinand

Well now Tom Brady could very well be superman. If last nights game would have been part of a movie we all would have turned off because it's way to unbelievable.

In his first game since week 1 last season Brady threw for 378 yards and two touchdowns, as the Patriots won late in the game.

The question I have is why oh why did Leodis McKelvin try and run the kick off back. Why did he not just settle for the touchback, which would have given the Bills the ball on their own 20 yard line. I'm sure as the Bills will wake up this morning and this defeat will be hard for them to swallow.

Brady is back and the NFL is better for his return. This season could see a shoot out between Brady and Brees (New Orleans Saints) in the race of league MVP. If week 1 is anything to go by we are in for a cracker.

In Monday nights other game, the Raiders found a way to throw the win away against the Chargers. Quarterback JaMarcus Russell looked like the 1st overall draft talent he is being paid for. Russell even blocked two players on a reverse play and threw the ball with power and skill.

The off season reports coming out of Oakland were about Russell taking a number of recievers away for private training away from the media. The hard work looks like it's starting to paid off.

Oakland still have a number of holes but this defeat shows that they my not be the worst team in the league. Plus former Patriots defensive end Richard Seymour looks ready to play. Seymour spent much of the game in the backfield hunting Phillip Rivers. He is a great signing if the Raiders can keep him happy and focused.

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NFL: Are the Saints the really deal?

By Daniel Ferdinand

Okay yes the Saints won convincingly, but lets be honest they were playing the Detroit Lions. Last season quarterback Brees threw for nearly 5,000 yards and he start this season where he left off last year.

I watch the highlights of the game on NFL.com and I saw to faults in the Saints team. I'm not going to talk about injuries, because that goes for every team in the league. But the defence does not look like it has improved enough. The Lions touchdown was a simple pitch left and the running back walked into the endzone.

The other problem as I see it, is Reggie Bush. I'm still not sold on Bush, he is an explosive player, however he doesn't seem like he can carry the load in the NFL. He completed his first NFL season but has yet to finish 16 games since and the Lions were able to hold him to 14 yards on 7 carries. May be that had something to do with Bush missing the last 3 pre season games, but that is my point, he gets banged up all the time.

I believe their are a number of teams ahead of the Saints, but New Orleans could see a wild card game this season. Brees will have to stay fit and on form. He is the key for this team.

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NFL: Opening Sunday

By Daniel Ferdinand

Okay it’s the first Sunday of the NFL season and I’m going to put my neck on the line. So here goes, The Minnesota Vikings will be Super Bowl (44TH) XLIV champions.

There you go, I’ve said it now. I fully expect the signing of Brett Favre to be the difference maker. In this post I will explain my thought process and why I believe the shoulder of Favre will stand the test of time.

The Vikings have only ever won one NFL Championship, all the way back in 1969. Last year they made the play offs losing to the Philadelphia Eagles at home in the Wild Card game.

Finally adding number 4 to the team takes pressure off the shoulders (no punt intended) of star running back Adrian Peterson. Favre gives the Vikings a better threat under centre than either Travis Jackson (who I believe will be a better player once Favre goes) and Sage Rosenfels. In turn Peterson relieves the pressure on Favre. Teams playing the Vikings this year will have to respect Favre and will not be able to put eight men (a defensive strategy, designed to stop running plays) in the box on every play. Favre also provides Head Coach Brad Childress with an option on 3rd and long.

Let’s not forget the rest of the Vikings team, their offensive line is very strong with Steve Hutchinson at left guard, being around the best in the business. At wide receiver six year veteran Bernard Berrian will be Favre’s go to guy. Favre also has first round draft pick Percy Harvin to throw too. Harvin from the University of Florida (Florida Gators) can play in multiple-positions because of his speed and open field running. Expect him to play at receiver, running back and returner this season.

On defence the Williams’ Pat and Kevin (not related) on the defensive line will be able to play the opening game (against the Cleveland Browns) after the federal appeals court blocked the NFL’s attempt to suspend the pair (for violating the league’s anti-doping policy).

So with both Williams’ playing (for now) and Jared Allen at defensive end, the Vikings should again be among the top ranked defences against the run. I’m sure teams will look to beat this defence through the air but Coach Childress should have his team prepare for this type of attack.

I have picked the Vikings because on offence they can hold on to the ball and win the battle of the clock (the time each team has possession on the ball on offence) most weeks. This will keep their very strong defence fresh and ready for battle.

We will see if I’m right come February, I really hope I am.

The Vikings are first up tonight on Sky Sports 3 the show starts at 5:30pm. I will be watch at my friends bar in South Woodford.

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BAFL 1: Review

By Daniel Ferdinand

BAFL 1

Cambridgeshire Cats 6 - 22 London Cobras

The London Cobras made it 3 wins out of 3 over the Cambridgeshire Cats in 2009 with a convincing 22 - 6 victory.

The Cobras' have a strong strong squad, full of talent and they over came complacency to record the semi final victory.

The Cats finish a successful season on a low but they can rest and look to add to their squad for next season.

The undefeated Cobras will be looking forward to returning to Doncaster and the Britbowl, but this time they are playing a division higher.

East Kilbride Pirates 25 - 0 Tamworth Phoenix

The Tamworth Phoenix had a nightmare at home as the Pirates swooped in a ran back to Scotland with the victory.

The Pirates are the only team this weekend to win away from home and they would have enjoyed their trip back north.

I'm sure the Tamworth team would have been disappointed by the result but they have played well all season and once the game is out of their system they can look back and be happy with their work.

Peterborough Saxons 25 - 0 Norwich Devils

The Norwich Devils finished a disappointing season without a victory.

The Saxons were in no mood to give out any charity and closed the season with a shut out over the Devils.

The Devils head coach Nick Rockell also stepped down after the game after three seasons in the position.

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BAFL 2: Review

By Daniel Ferdinand

BAFL: 2 Review

Glasgow Tigers 6 - 7 Leicester Falcons

You can read the Falcons match report here

In the lowest scoring game this weekend the Leicester Falcons squeaked pass the Glasgow Tigers.

Nick Surface's interception and run back took the Falcons into the redzone. The games first score was recorded when quarterback Arturo Sanchez throw a pass receiver Chris Rodrigo. Rodrigo did not make the touchdown catch however because the ball was deflected into the arms of team mate Ben Longland, the extra point made the score 7-0.

The Tigers drove up the field and scored when quarterback Scott Couper found Ruairdh McDonald in the endzone. The Tigers went for two points and the win. Unfortunately for the Tigers, Couper was sacked by heroic Alex Ottaway.

With the game over the Tigers travelled home, licking their wounds. The Falcons however get one more game and chance to be crowned the BAFL division 2 champions.

Hampshire Thrashers 20 - 49 Colchester Gladiators

The Colchester Gladiators player their second game in a week when they returned to the Wivenhoe Stadium. The visitors this week was the Hampshire Thrashers.

Last week the Thrashers beat the Mavericks at home.

Just missing out on scoring 50 points seems like the only negitive for Colchester. But playing at the Keepmoat for the final is reward enough for the boys in blue and yellow.

The Hampshire Thrashers can now reflex on a successful season which sure the team undefeated in the regular season. The Thrashers can now look forward to the 2010 season with expectation.

But the 2009 season continues for the Gladiators.

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BAFL: Defending Champs Back in The Final

By Adam Etheridge

The Coventry Cassidy Jets fired into the Britbowl final for a third straight year with a 28-14 semi-final victory over the Bristol Aztecs. Tony Perkins had the games biggest play, returning the opening kick off of the second half for 81 yards a touchdown that broke Bristol’s resistance. Once again the Jets will face the London Blitz for the National Title as they ran over the Farnham Fast Lane Knights 33-13.

Coventry opened the scoring on their second possession, Jeremy Simms making a tremendous catch over the middle for a 19 yard touchdown reception from Stuart Franklin. The play was set up by a hook and ladder play, Franklin’s pass was caught by Dale Hawes at the Bristol 24 before the diminutive receiver pitched the ball back to Dominic Olney who barrelled ahead for an extra five yards. Hawes attempted to add the extra point but his kick was blocked.

Bristol, who had managed only nine yards in the air, struck back late in the first half with a touchdown from Dominic Westwood to Nick Smith. The 38 yard pass was an embarrassment for the Jets’ defence as both Ahmed Hashim and Wayne Gumbs missed what looked to be simple tackles on the way to the endzone. Jon Wyse added the extra point to hand Bristol a 7-6 lead with half time looming.

Franklin completed a 38 yard pass of his own as Mark Cohen dragged tacklers down inside the Bristol redzone. The Aztecs brought a lot of pressure and held the Jets short of the endzone. When running out the clock would have been the logical choice, Bristol decided to go for the throat, Ted Baynham was brought in at quarterback to throw the deep ball. His first pass was wild and his second was picked off by Ahmed Hashim.

A 38 yard touchdown pass to Dominic Olney on the next play punished the Aztecs for their mistake. Kofi Campbell, making a welcome return, coasted in to the endzone to add a two point conversion ensuring that the Jets would enter the break with the lead at 14-7. As the second half began it was time for Tony Perkins to take centre stage, his 81 yard kick off return was a hammer blow for the Aztecs as they fell two scores behind Coventry’s stingy defence. Hawes booted the extra point for a 14 point advantage.

The remainder of the third quarter saw both teams cancel each other as Coventry’s offence began to sputter. The only drive of note ended with Wyse making a good play to take away a second touchdown from Simms. The Aztecs went back to what worked best in the final quarter, keeping the ball on the ground and letting Mike Adams churn up yardage. His tough running eventually set up another Westwood to Smith touchdown, this time from eight yards. Wyse kicked the extra point to pull Bristol within seven with six minutes remaining in the game.

In response Coventry mounted a 12 play drive, churning up the clock as Franklin directed his team 68 yards downfield completing two key passes to Courtney Pope before Campbell bulled in from three yards out. Hawes again kicked the extra point to restore the Jets 14 point advantage. Bristol’s last chance to respond was snuffed out as an Adam’s fumble was recovered by Liam Smith. The Jets now have three weeks to prepare for the final, which will be held in Doncaster’s Keepmoat Stadium.

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BAFL: The Blitz Make The Big Game Again

By Gerald Williamson

The London Blitz American Football Club booked their place in their fourth consecutive BritBowl, BritBowl XXIII, by defeating the Farnham Fast Lane Knights 33-13.

London Blitz kicker Nathan Holt kicked the game off into the picturesque early September sunshine. Excellent work from #35 Richard “Chicken” Cunningham shut down the Knights kick-off return, tackling the kick returner on the Blitz sideline and setting up the first offensive possession for the Knights on their own 29 yard line. Their possession didn’t last long however as a fired up Blitz defense quickly forcing them to punt with defensive back #3 Aaron Sanders-Percival missing an interception by the length of a fingernail on third down.

The Blitz offense’s possession was even shorter. On the first play of the drive, quarterback #8 Fred Boyle handed the ball off to running back #23 Gareth Dauley who only managed to pick up a yard on the ground before being brought down. On the second play, the Blitz went with the ground game again with #23 Dauley taking the hand off and raced some 67 yards to the end zone for the game’s first score. Kicker #25 Nathan Holt put his kick between the uprights and the boys in Blue were off to a flying seven point lead.

After the ensuing kick-off the stellar Blitz defense went back to work, when defensive back #3 Aaron Sanders-Percival recorded his first interception of the afternoon but his return was negated by a block-in-the- back penalty and forced the offense to start their drive from the Knight’s 29 yard line. The offensive drive stalled however, with the Blitz being forced to punt.

The Blitz defense then got the ball back for its offense, forcing another punt from the Knights’ offense. The Blitz offense then put together a sustained drive, which was capped off by running back #23 Gareth Dauley who strode into the end zone untouched from seven yards out for his second touchdown of the afternoon. #25 Nathan Holt added the point after and the Blitz led 14-0.

Both teams then traded possession as their defenses stood firm and forced the offenses to punt until running back #23 Gareth Dauley broke out into a scintillating 51 yard touchdown run, spinning out of what looked to be a sure tackle before accelerating down the near sideline and into the corner of the end zone to complete his hat-trick of touchdowns for the game. #25 Nathan Holt kicked the point after through the uprights and increased the Blitz lead to 21-0.

The Blitz defense were then burned by a deep ball after blown coverage on a half back pass on the ensuing Knights’ possession for a touchdown and their kicker added the extra point to put the Knights’ back in contention with the score at 21-7. On the following Blitz offensive possession quarterback #8 Fred Boyle was picked off trying to put the game beyond reach. However, the resulting possession didn’t last long with defensive back #3 Aaron Sanders-Percival stepping up and make yet another big play by snaring his second interception of the afternoon.

However the ensuing offensive possession didn’t last very long running back #23 Gareth Dauley fumbled the ball for the Knights to recover. The Blitz defense took to the field only to be backed up by a controversial late hitting penalty on Blitz safety #20 Ed Morgan that bemused sections of the crowd. On the very next play veteran defensive back #29 Lennox Johnson was penalized for pass interference in the corner of the end zone. From there, the Knights were able to punch it in from a yard. The point after kick was blocked, leaving the score 21-13 at the half.

The Blitz came out running in the third quarter with key carries from running back #23 Gareth Dauley and fullback #48 Jon Chilton. The offense’s long and grinding drive was capped by an 11 yard catch and run by team captain and wide receiver, #11 Rod “Spartan” Bradley who strode into the far corner of the end zone. #25 Nathan Holt added the extra point and the Blitz lead 28-13.

Stubborn defending from the Blitz defense saw big plays from defensive back #29 Lennox Johnson and defensive lineman #69 Aaron Chambers which kept the Knights offense at bay. The Blitz offense came close to extending its lead but a holding call ruled out a touchdown run from running back #32 Deji Alli. A 27 yard field goal from kicker #25 Nathan Holt and a Safety rounded off the scoring with the final score London Blitz 33, Farnham Knights 13.

After the game, wide receiver and team captain Rod “Spartan” Bradley said: “For this game to be somewhat tougher than we expected was probably the best thing for us. We’ve got work to do, we’ve got a lot to prepare in the next three weeks but it’s great for the new guys and everyone who’s put in the effort this year to be in the Bowl game.”

London Blitz Head Coach Mark Moss said: “We’re there now. It was all a bit tense today, we didn’t play that well in the first half but that [key] drive in the second half from the offense set the tone of the second half. We’ve got eight practices [until the Bowl game] and we’ll be working our socks off to be ready, to be prepared.”

The Blitz now prepare for their final game against the Coventry Jets at BritBowl XXIII in Doncaster’s Keep Moat Stadium on September 27th.

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BAFL: 1 Preview

The division 1 play offs are at the semi final stage and after last weeks quarter finals the teams will be battle harden.

I was at the Cobras game last week and they are an impressive unit and only the Cats were able to win away from home.

Tamworth won but not in the shoot out fashion I believed and East Kilbride showed that the Gateshead result the week before was just a blip.

Cambridgeshire Cats @ London Cobras

The Cats and the Cobras have faced each other twice already this season, with the Cobras coming out on top both times.

Last week the Cobras' ran with the ball well and benefited from weaken Mustangs side.

The Cats were the only team to win away from home last weekend and will need to do the same again. The problem for the Cats is the fact that the Cobras will be full of running and have yet to taste defeat.

Having seen the Cobras' at first hand I know how powerful a squad they have and this means their coaches can keep the men on the field fresher. The Cobras are able to make big plays and their runners can break tackles. The Cats will need to stay focused for the full 60 minutes.

The Cats will need to play the game of their life's in order over come the Cobras. The pressure will on the Cats quarterback Josh Barimus to manage the game and allow running back Josh Gireath to pound the ball.

You always have to remember on any given Sunday you can win or you can lose, but you always have to fight.

East Kilbride Pirates @ Tamworth Phoenix

The Pirates face the very long trip south to face the Tamworth Phoenix. This is a game which both teams will be confident of winning, a game where losing is not an option.

The Pirates will be looking to running back duo of Iain Dick and Gary Carr to make the hard yards and on defence they will look for a big game from Steven Kane.

Tamworth have only lost one game this season and that was against Welsh opposition early in the season. I am sure that Tamworth will use every advantage they have and not having to travel to Scotland is the biggest one.

Can the Phoenix take advantage of a over travelled Pirates team or will East Kilbride enjoy their journey home.

Peterborough Saxons @ Norwich Devils

One final game to complete the regular season sees the Devils host the Saxons.

The Devils will have one final chance to end a difficult season on a high as they seek their first win of the season.

You have to wish the Devils will (unless your from Ipswich) but I'm sure the Saxons will be in no mood to give out charity. Every yard will be earned as both teams finish up season 2009.

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NFL: Top Stories Around The League

Here are some stories doing the rounds in the NFL.

Some interesting, some funny, some just stories I think you may enjoy.

Cincinnati Bengals

So the reports coming out of Ohio is that Andre Smith is a touch over weight. Not the first round pick I hear you shout, well yes and he has only been at 'team' training for 2 days. Who ate all the, well you know the rest... NFLUK.com

Philadelphia Eagles

Check out Vick's highlights against the Jets. The Eagles lost the game 27-38. Check out the 22 yard loss, throw it away Michael throw it away... NFL.com

Minnesota Vikings

Favre fined $10k for a 'crack-back block'... nytimes.com

Buffalo Bills

Offensive coordinator sacked already. Hello, the season has not started... NFL.com

New England Patriots

The Pats look like going into the season with only 2 quarterbacks. Find out who on... NFL.com

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BAFL: Premier Preview

The Premier post season kicks off this Sunday and the semi final games will be played in London and Coventry.

The undefeated London Blitz host the Farnham Fast Lane Knights in Finsbury Park. But first I want to focus on the game which is a few mile up the M1.

Bristol Aztecs @ Coventry Cassidy Jets

In Coventry the Cassidy Jets face the Bristol Aztecs. Both teams finished the season with 5 wins and 3 loses and the head to head record was a home win each.

Does this make the Jets favorites for this clash?

The Jets have knocked the Aztecs out of the play offs the last 3 seasons and the boys from Bristol will not want that losing record to continue.

The Jets have a number of new players in their ranks and will hope they have a fresher squad to use on Sunday.

The Aztecs are know around the league as one of the tough teams to play against. Some say they play a 'smash mouth' type of game, but don't take their skill and talent lightly.

Early game momentum will be key in this battle. I have it down as an away win, the Aztecs winning by a nose.

Farnham Fast Lane Knights @ London Blitz

In London the Knights face the huge challenge of being the first team to beat the Blitz in 2009.

Knights Blitz games always have an edge to them dating back to before I played (I know it's not that long ago), may be it's all about London pride or just that these teams have long been fighting at the top.

The Knight go into the game as underdogs but I'm sure they will not see it that way. Head Coach Ian Ellis will have his troop fired up and ready for battle.

The Blitz go into the game very much full of confidence, however Head Coach Moss will have to keep his guys focused on victory and nothing else.

The key to this game is how much pressure the Knight offence can put on the Blitz defence. Winning this battle could provide the winner.

Speaking on our road trip home last Monday the London Blitz Assistant Head Coach Cullen spoke about some of the improvements the Blitz have made this season. The one they are most happy with is on special teams. Coach Callan said "we made a conscious effort to improve and the guys have done that very well".

I have to go with the undefeated Blitz to return to the BritBowl.

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NFL: Number 1 Quarterback

I asked the question today on my twitter, who is the best quarterback in the NFL at the moment?

From the answers given only three players are in the race Peyton Manning, Tom “Gisele” Brady and Drew Brees.

I’m not going to choose, I’m asking you guys and girls out there. Only two of the guys have super bowl rings. Does that mean Brees can not be considered?

First up is the man with the most Championships, one Thomas Edward “Tom” Brady, Jr. Tom Brady has appeared in four super bowl winning three of them.

Brady went to college at the University of Michigan, were he spent his first two years as back up to Brian Griese. Brady won the battle to become the Wolverines starter for the 98 and 99 seasons.

After his senior year Brady was picked number #199 in the 2000 NFL draft. It has been reported that the Patriots were considering Brady or Tim Rattay. In the end they went for Brady a move which in 2007 the NFL network called the greatest “steal” in the history of the NFL draft.

Brady started his rookie season fourth on the Patriots depth chart. Can you name all 3 players above him?

I thought not.

Brady became the starter in the 2001 season after an injury to the Pats starter.

Brady’s best quality is his leadership. Players put there health on the line for him and will follow him anyway. His arm strength has been under rated but he can make every throw expected of an NFL quarterback.

Although Brady doesn’t have straight line speed, he does move around the pocket very well.

Finally on Tom, he has won games with and without star players around him. I expect he will get close to the records he set in the 2007 season.

Next on the list is Peyton Williams Manning. Manning had the polar opposite raise to the NFL to Brady. Peyton was the first overall player to be picked in the 1998 NFL draft by the Indianapolis Colts. Peyton comes from “what many call” the first family of football.

Peyton is the second of three sons, to Archie and Olivia Manning. Archie also played in the NFL for the Saints, Houston Oilers and Vikings (1971-1984).

Peyton’s elder brother played football at the receiver position in college but had to quit because of spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spinal canal) and his younger brother Eli also has a super bowl ring and super bowl MVP award.

Like Brady, Manning is a leader in the locker room. His arm strength is about as good as it gets. He makes all the passes and uniquely to Manning only he picks the offensive play when he is at the line of scrimmage.

Manning doesn’t move around the field that well. However this does mean that his offensive line knows where he is.

Manning has only been able to win one championship, a fact that will play on his mind. Manning's problem for this season, "I believe" is the fact that a number of teams are in a better position to make it to the super bowl. The Colts “for me” are ranked around the 9th to 13th place of all the NFL teams. However I still expect Manning to have a great season.

The last player on my list is Andrew “Drew” Christopher Brees. Last season Brees became only the second NFL quarterback to finish the season with more than 5,000 yards passing (5,069).

Brees graduated from Purdue University and was drafted in the second round (pick 32) by the San Diego Chargers in the 2001 NFL draft.

Brees has been unlucky with the two NFL teams he has been the starter on. He always provides a great offensive edge however the Saints defences have seemed to always let him down.

When he was at the Chargers the defence was not what it is now and now in New Orleans, the defence is as bad as his offence is good. The Saints have looked to improve this over the off season, using their first 3 (picks 14, 116 and 118) draft picks on defensive players.

Like Brady and Manning, Brees makes all the throws required at this level. He is the best of the three at moving around the pocket and making time for himself.

Some of his stats may be slightly higher because the Saints defence often give up big plays. They also concede lots of points 393 in 2008 (ranked 26).

In the end it’s up to the individual to pick which of these players are number one in the league.

The question is, if you were starting a franchise tomorrow and you could pick your quarterback first, who would you choose?

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The Jets Add to Ranks

By Adam Etheridge

The Coventry Cassidy Jets have seen a dramatic improvement in their defence over the past matches allowing less than 200 yards a game and surrendering just seven points in their final two regular season contests. The catalyst for this turn around has been an unlikely source, new signing, Steve George. The 35 year old free safety from Deeping recently transferred from Peterborough becoming the sixth player to move across from the Saxons this season.

George, who returned to American Football last year after a brief stint with the Peterborough Hustlers youth team in the 80’s, built a strong reputation in his comeback season as he was named co-defensive MVP in a year that saw the Saxons achieve promotion to the British American Football League’s first division. After seeing several team mates leave to compete in the Premier Division George decided the time was right to follow suit.

“I joined the Jets as they have excellent coaches in place that’ll help me improve as a player” stated George, singling out the presence of former London Monarch Rowelle Blenman as a deciding factor. “There are some tremendous players here and competing with the likes of Ahmed Hashim and Danny Wardell for a starting spot will bring my game on in leaps and bounds. My aim is to help the Jets win more Championships both in the UK and then in Europe”.

As well as George, the Jets will be glad to welcome back Gary Clark after a month on the sidelines. The young Scotsman has been absent from the last two games and his return boosts the Jets as they look to defeat the Bristol Aztecs at the semi-final stage for the third straight season. The two fierce rivals have already met twice this year, Coventry took the first game 16-7 in an ugly encounter at the Sphinx, whilst the Aztecs claimed their first ever victory over the defending champions 40-33 in a thriller on their home patch.

Jets’ Head Coach Gerry McManus looks to have a full squad as Daniel Smallman-Gough returns after a three month absence, the exciting young playmaker provides more depth at safety and McManus knows he’ll need every player at his disposal. “Bristol are a very physical team, they’ll pound the ball up the middle and try to wear us down upfront. It’s going to be a long day for the defence so converting third downs and keeping our offence on the field will be key”. The game is scheduled for a 14:30 kick off at the Sphinx, as always, parking will be free of charge. Entrance on the gate is free for under 16s and £3 for adults.

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NFL: Father Tedy Bruschi

On Monday #54 Tedy Bruschi retired from football.

In Feb, 2005 Super Ted step out of the Massachusetts General Hospital with his wife. Tedy had been diagnosis as having a mild stroke.

Super Ted had felt numbness in his left arm, left leg and blurry vision only a few days before. Bruschi had surgery to repair a hole in his heart, he still however made it back for the seventh game of the following season.

In every sport managers have to balance how much talent and how much heart his or her team has. In Bruschi, Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick found what he called "a perfect player".

What would happen if a player like Micheal Vick had Super Ted's leadership, heart, determination, inspiration and work ethic?

Back to the man in question. Bruschi was the Patriots third round draft choice in the 1996 draft (pick: 86) from the University of Arizona. In college he was a defensive end, where he tied the NCAA Division 1-A sack record with 52. Bruschi had a very successful time in college but after he was drafted by (then) Head Coach Bill Parcells, he was moved to play at linebacker.

Belichick (who was assistant head coach at the time) remembers that Bruschi was told "he was 'too small', 'too slow', 'too this' and 'too that' but he just kept getting better and better, working harder, outworking and out competing pretty much everybody that he faced."

Tedy has missed most of training camp and one preseason game through injury this season. He says that he is simply too old and found his "body doesn't heal as quickly".

Bring the curtain down on his 13 year playing career which saw him win 3 NFL championships. Bruschi noted that he had accomplished all his goals except "winning a fourth championship". He added that "knowing I have three previous ones, I think I'll let that one go".

Bruschi leaves the Patriots in a healthy position. Team leader Tom Brady has returned from his knee injury and at linebacker Jerod Mayo (the defensive rookie of the year) has emerged as his successor as the leader in the middle of the defence.

The Patriots will still miss Super Ted after he had 1,134 tackles, 30.5 sacks and 12 interceptions, 4 of them touchdowns.

Patriot's owner Robert Kraft said that "Tedy embodies everything we want the Patriot brand to stand for".

I hope Tedy will move to a career in television because he always has something interesting to say and he knows the game in side and out.

Check out Tedy's interview on NFL.com.

Or you can learn more about Mr Bruschi here.

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BAFL: The Gladiators Host Blue Raiders

I spent the sunny Bank Holiday Monday in Colchester, watching the Gladiators host the Bedfordshire Blue Raiders.

The Gladiators were in confident mood after finishing the season undefeated which included two victories over the Blue Raiders. In the two games this season the Blue Raiders had been unable to score a single point, so I much improved performance was required for victory.

Watching the game with me was London Blitz Assistant Head Coach Mike Callan, who was watching his first BAFL 2 game.

The Gladiators kicked off the game and the Blue Raiders first offensive attempted was running play. However on this opening series the Blue Raiders were unable to get anything going and stalled without making much of an impact on the game.

With the ball in the Gladiators hands things started to get interesting, with a man in motion on most plays the offence looked like making something happen. This happened when running back #3 Matthew Excell broke free to almost score from his own half. #3 Excell was stopped by Blue Raiders defensive back #15 Elliott Viechweg who got back to make a good tackle.

#3 Excell was in no mood to have points taken away from him and not long after he got his hands on the ball again and ran the ball into the endzone for the first score of the game. Kicker #8 Richard Thomas added the extra point to put Colchester up 7-0.

With the Colchester defence showing cover 2 the Blue Raiders finally took advantage when quarterback #7 Nigel Mansfield picked out his tight end #8 Liam Cooke up the middle for a solid gain and the 1st down. The Blue Raiders however were unable to make this drive count on the scoreboard and returned the ball to the Gladiators.

It was at this point when Coach Callan's spectator head came off and he turned into a Coach. He was offering plenty of good advice for both team, unfortunately it was only to me.

The Gladiators' running back were #8 Richard Thomas was finding holes in the Blue Raiders defence and put in a good run, however the Gladiators stalled close to the Blue Raiders endzone but failed to add to there score when they missed a field goal from around 22 yards.

The Blue Raiders offence was looking for someone to step up and that came when quarterback #7 Mansfield broke a tackle in the back field and ran for 25 yard before being knocked out of bounds. You would think that the Gladiators defence would start worrying. That was not going to happen, first defensive lineman #96 Christian Steward just missed an interception with the field open for him (he did stop the play though). The Blue Raiders then made two errors on back to back plays. The first a fumbled snap but they held on to the ball and even worst was to come as the Blue Raiders fumbled the field goal attempt.

The Gladiators must have felt like they got away with that defensive series and went about adding to the score. They did this with #8 Thomas breaking 4 or 5 tackles, then running 50+ yards to score. With Thomas then adding the extra point Colchester were now leading the game 14-0.

The half ended with the Gladiators leading 14-0, but they would need to stay focused in the second half if they wanted to get to the semi finals.

The game now seemed to pause as both sides played as well and then bad as each other. The problem for the Blue Raiders was that the Gladiators looked comfortable and they just could not get into the game. The Blue Raiders started making the game even harder for themselves when they touched the ball on a Gladiators punt and allowed Colchester to jump on the ball in there redzone.

The defence needed a big play and they got one from defensive lineman #55 Paul Settle. #55 Settle blow up the line and sacked the quarterback, causing a fumble. The Gladiators held onto the ball but were taken well out of the redzone and the drive came to nothing.

Then the game opened up, first with Colchester increasing there lead when running back #14 Alex Robinson ran the ball in. The Colchester defence had given the offence the ball after pick off #7 Mansfield. The extra point again came from the boot of #8 Thomas.

I believed that that score would put the game to bed, however the Blue Raiders had other idea's with touchdown thrown to tight end #8 Liam Cooke. This was a smart play as quarterback #7 Mansfield faked the hand off left and passed to the right. Bedfordshire converted a 2 point conversation making the score 21-8. Was this the start of something or could Colchester strike back?

Unfortunately for the Blue Raiders it was the latter as running back #14 Robinson ran in the touchdown from around 80 yards. Yet again the trustworthy boot of #8 Thomas scored the extra point making the score 28-8.

The Blue Raiders came out for the next series with a purpose, successfully making 4 first downs on the bounce. The drive ended with the Blue Raiders running the ball in for the score and again converting a 2 point conversation 28-16.

Looking for more points the Blue Raiders tried an onside kick which was picked up by defensive back #87 Nick Foxley. While I'm talking about #87 I have to add that he was my pick of the Gladiators defence. He made open field tackles all game, stopping the Blue Raiders from breaking big plays.

The Gladiators now smelled the semi finals and went for the kill. First #14 Robinson scored again and then running back #38 Leo Beckford got in on the act.

The game ending with the Gladiators winning 42-16 and sending the crowd home happy.

This was a game which could have been closer but for a number big plays from the Gladiators.

I'll finish this post up with the funniest play I've seen (maybe ever). I'll not say a name and number (because you know who you are) of the player but as the Gladiators punted, the ball bounced and rolled towards the Blue Raiders endzone. Everyone expected the Gladiator player to stop the ball inches away from the endzone (giving his team the greatest defensive field position possible) he calmly walked away allowing the ball in cross the endzone line and giving the Blue Raiders the ball on their own 20 yard line instead. The player was made aware of his error as Coach Stephenson asking him why he'd walked away. If I said that Coach Stephenson was calm as he explained I'd be lying.

Well done to the Gladiators as they move on to the semi finals after this strong but not complete performance.

The Blue Raiders can now have sometime off and look forward to 2010.

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BAFL: Mustangs get bitten

Under the planes of Heathrow the Mustangs arrived to face a large and prepared Cobras outfit.

The Mustangs stepped off their team bus a little light on numbers. I personally counted 11 defence men and about 14 offensive players. If playing the undefeated Cobras in London was hard enough. The Mustangs were also missing running back Joey Fabrizio, after he was suspend for running into an official. The Mustangs believe that this was a tough call but Fabrizio was on the side line helping the team.

At this point I would like to say that Fabrizio was the loudest person I've ever heard (well maybe not as loud as Coach Moss - Blitz). I think it has something to do with him never taking off his large earphones. I wonder if he has them on when he plays?

Well back to the game, the Cobras were in confident mood with players like #11 Marvin Allen (Steelers) and #6 Jermaine Allen.

The game did not start well for the Mustang when #84 Bryce returned the opening kick off for a touchdown. This was the start the Cobras were looking for but they didn't score the attempted 2 point conversation.

The first big hit of the came on the Mustangs opening series when Cobras defence men #21 Deon Grant stopped a play dead in its tracks.

The Mustangs were unable to create any offence and had to punt, however the Cobras fumbled the punt and the men in green jumped onto the ball. The Mustangs were still unable to get into the endzone and turned to ball over on downs.

It was at this point that I received a little prize from one of the family watching the game. A lovely piece of homemade cake if I do say so myself. The family in question was the Warrior's #51 Alex Haldane's family. So thank you very much.

Anyway back to the game, the Cobras started running the ball well picking up strong yards. Then a great run from #82, making the score 12-0 after a second missing a second 2 point conversation.

The Mustangs tried hard and showed flashes of what they are capable of, but their lack of numbers became a real problem from late in the first half. The Cobras are a well oiled team and once they tasted the Mustangs blood they went in for the kill.

Now they just scored what seemed like one after another, starting with a running score by #33 Devar Gayle with a 2 point conversation. Next a touchdown pass from quarterback #7 Jerome Allen to receiver #84 Will Bryce, with a 2 point conversation.

With the score now at 28-0, #38 Ike Okonkwo ran another one in and the Cobras completed a touchdown pass to #80 Emmanuel Mokuro. Both scores had successful 2 points conversations.

The Mustangs defence put a smile on the teams face when they snatched an interception from #7 Jerome Allen. The Mustangs were unable to take advantage as they just could not get into the endzone.

The Cobras finished off the game in the same way they started it with 2 more scores. Both scores were run in first by #33 Devar Gayle and then #13, both 2 point conversations were scored.

That left the game 66-0 and over.

Reflecting on the game the Mustangs showed heart but just didn't have enough man power to threaten the powerful Cobras. They also wasn't helped by an torn bicep on the defence.

On this show the Cobras will be tough to beat. They will have to stay focus for they semi final, which will be a home game against the the Cambridgeshire Cats.

Pictures courtesy of the 'London Blitz'

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The Final Challenge For Coventry Bears

By Tom Beasley

It’s an exciting time for American Football in Coventry with the release of the new website. This excitement is exacerbated by the fact Bears have a team in every Under 18 section at the finals in Doncaster on Saturday 5th September in which the top two teams from England and Scotland compete for the ultimate accolade. All three teams qualified as English Conference champions, which is a remarkable achievement for the club.

Firstly, the cadet side, the reigning national champions have high hopes for victory, supported by Hannah Russell-Yarde (pictured right, photo by Chelle Bridges), captain and leading scorer of the team. She is described by head coach Andrew Gambrill as the side’s “main weapon” and is considered a bright talent to watch in the future, even at the tender age of 12. Hannah herself has a strong feeling going into the match, praising her colleagues saying that “the team has improved and worked really well”.

For the junior team, a difficult fixture lies ahead in the shape of Woodham Warriors, a formidable outfit who managed to clinch the title last year and the Bears’ likely opponent if they manage to progress to the final. However, Bears are not daunted by the task after the huge morale boost achieved by AJ Mepstead and Tom Clancy being invited to the Great Britain selection camp, an amazing honour for the two. Ruth Miller, 14, in her first year with the club seems up for it, enthusing: “It’s going to be a very exciting game to play in,” and that she is definitely “looking forward to the challenge”.

Also feeling good about the match are the youth team, who are flying high and, in the words of coach Andrew: “head into the finals with some momentum”. They have added a number of Great Britain internationals to the team that initially opened the season, as well as the experience of a plethora of previous national champions. One of the new stars is Jake Cooke (left), 16, who when interviewed said: “I am looking forward to the finals as it is a chance to watch and play with some of the country’s finest players, so I will able to learn and take on different playing techniques.”

He continued: “I believe these competitions do enhance your career as they give you friendly competitive edges and the will to improve at the game which will in turn increase your chances of enhancing you career in the sport "

These finals are a perfect opportunity for the Bears to increase their appearance as a major player on the national scene and one of the most formidable teams in the country.

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