On the day of the Superbowl, it wasn’t just the NFL teams who were out to prove themselves in the world of American Football, BUAFL teams from around the country were supposed to be going head-to-head. Unfortunately, bad weather meant it wasn’t just public transport that was bought to a standstill; around 19 games were cancelled because of frozen pitches and deep snow. Luckily, Southampton avoided the snow which meant the game against the 2 for 3 Solent Redhawks had the go-ahead. The game was a big opportunity for the Redhawks to prove themselves against the current National Champions and the Destroyers wanted to continue their undefeated streak through 2012.
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| Portsmouth kick-off against Solent |
Portsmouth started the game with a risky kick-off rushing straight from a huddle to shock the opposing team. The risk paid off and Portsmouth eventually managed to get the ball down to the 10yd line with plays to Tomi Olusanya and Folahanmi Dare from quarterback Simon Blow but they could not convert on 4th & goal, meaning Southampton had the ball once more. A lot of flags were thrown during first quarter, something that became a norm throughout the game and after a couple of games being refereed by stand-ins before Christmas, it would have been a welcomed change but a few bad calls from the officials proved otherwise.
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| Portsmouth's O-line defend QB Simon Blow from Solent |
The second quarter started with a 20yd touchdown pass from Southampton and a 1 point conversion, giving themselves 6 points on the board, which was to be the only score in the first half.
Portsmouth managed to get points on the board in the third quarter with a running touchdown from Brook Ince, the 2 point conversion failed but Portsmouth’s confidence was boosted. Southampton got another touchdown after a 4yd pass in the fourth quarter but their 1 point conversion failed after an impressive block from Portsmouth.
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| Tomi Olusanya tries to fight off Solent's Defence |
Portsmouth often gained vital yards throughout the game and if they had a field goal team, they may have gotten the points they needed to beat the Redhawks, however they are known as being one of the few teams who do not kick. After Portsmouth’s first loss in 15 games, it was a shock for both teams and Portsmouth’s solemn mood and Solent’s celebrations reflected this. In order to claim the championship once more, Portsmouth have to win their next three games starting with the bottom of the league Surrey Stingers at home on the 12th Feb.
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| Brook Ince scores a TD |
FINAL SCORE: DESTROYERS 6-13 REDHAWKS
