The Sting: Cuda@Bees 01/01/09
"float like a butterfly, STING with the Bees"
On Sunday the 1st of March, the Killer Bees host the University of Bristol Barracuda for the last home game of the regular season, with the Bees fighting for a place in the BUAFL Challenge Trophy.
To complement the action, there will be full commentary provided by two of the clubs alumni Chris Gammond and Adrian Dalmedo. There will be free programmes available which includes an introduction to the sport, and Hot food and refreshments will be available thoughout the game.
The University of Bath Jets Cheerleading Squad will be providing a half time show, along side competitions and raffles as well to keep you entertained.
Kick off is at 1PM, on the St Johns pitches on Campus (Directions). Whether your new to the sport or an a lifelong fan you should find something to entertain you and we hope to see you all there.
Bees on the Road to Recovery
Looking to build on their promising performance against Aberystwyth the Bees travelled to Devon to face a Plymouth Blitz team with a perfect record and yet to concede a single point. A bright winter’s day was to provide excellent football conditions and allow both teams to showcase their skills.
Bath won the toss and elected to receive leaving the Plymouth side able to send the bath returners back into the glare of the sun hanging low in the sky. After a solid return to the 25 the Bees offense took the field only to have their initial efforts rebuffed by a pumped home defence; a feat swiftly matched by the swarming Bees defence who forced a three and out. Bath’s O-line now began to take the game to the opposition and create running lanes which were eagerly exploited throughout the game by half-backs Matthew Styles and Gareth Booth tirelessly led by Ben Wiltshire at full-back. This allowed Bath to begin moving the ball, a Styles run from 31 yards out broke the deadlock, the PAT attempt was blocked. Pressure was maintained by the visiting team as their D quickly quelled the next Blitz drive with a strong showing on the line preventing the attempted power running. No such problems were encountered by Bath and Styles was soon able to grab his second score of the day with a 45 yard rush. A failed attempt at a two point conversion left the score 12-0 at the quarter.
The lead was further increased early in the second quarter as Bath moved the ball down the field with an effective mix of pass and run plays keeping their opponents off balance Tim Williams finished the drive with a short pass to Chris Jones. The two point conversion was again no good. The Plymouth team, seeing their unbeaten record slipping away from them, upped their game; taking the ball to the air on offence they made their first first down of the day. Plymouth continued to move the ball and drove into Bath territory before a strong pass rush led to a wayward pass from the Plymouth qb which was intercepted by safety Tom Marston. The pressure on Bath was not relieved however, as their offensive drive failed leaving the defence to withstand another aerial assault before the half-time whistle sounded with the score 18-0.
Strong words from head coach Pat Snooks at halftime ensured the Bees took the field again with renewed vigour and after another quick stop by their defence a thundering 40 yard run by Gareth Booth set up Tim Williams for a rushing TD, converted for two points. Bath’s defence continued to shut down the Blitz and began to turn the ball over with interceptions by Jack Goodfriend and Simon Hallissey, who was the days Defensive and Overall MVP, and a fumble recovery by rookie D-lineman Ben Rowe. The final score of the 3rd went to Offensive MVP for the game Gareth Booth who ploughed through a gap in the line and didn’t stop until the goal line scoring a club-record 78 yard touchdown run. The two point conversion was again successful widening the gap to 34 points.
The 4th quarter saw Styles’ pace proving too much to handle for the tiring Plymouth defence and he scored twice more from 22 and 18 yards out and a final score was added as back up qb Chris Jones connected with Gavin Kelly for a red-zone passing TD. Two further two-point conversions were added to these and after a fumble recovery by Luke Haslett on Bath’s final kick off the Bees offense ran out the clock with the final score 56-0.
The result leaves Bath 2-1 for the season going into the Christmas break and in contention for the conference 3 south divisional title. The next fixture vs Cardiff Cobras (25/01/09 @ St.Johns playing Fields, University of Bath) is likely to prove vital to these aspirations.
Bees provide the lightning in West Wales
After a frustrating performance against the Birmingham Lions at the BUAFL kick off xpLosION event, the Bath Killer Bees travelled to the West coast of Wales to play new division rival Tarranau Aberystwyth, full in the knowledge that a two win gap already existed between themselves and the joint division leading UWE Bullets and Plymouth Blitz.
Having travelled the previous afternoon in an attempt to ensure optimal performance, the Bees opted to defer having won the coin toss, only for a strange decision to unfold where the Welsh outfit chose to kick rather than receive meaning Bath started the game with both the ball and the strong wind that prevailed throughout the day.
It was a day where defence was to dominate. Early in the game the historically dominate Bath running game appeared to still be suffering a hangover from the Birmingham match and were stifled by a tough Aberystwyth interior. However, not to be deterred by the gale force winds, the Bees turned to the passing game and found success. After a baptism of fire in the season opener, new Quarterback Tim Williams found some rhythm and numerous quick completions to second year wide out Chris Jones marched Bath down the field. The result was a blocked field goal, but the signs were there that the passing game had the ability to cause the Aberystwyth defence some problems.
After a quick turnover by the Bees dominant defence an arrowed Williams pass split the Tarranau defence and after Jones managed to sidestep the free safety, he proceeded to stroll into the endzone. New placekicker Steve Leonard slotted home the extra point which left the score 6-0.
Already the Bath defence were making a statement of the dominance they would show throughout. The result was another short field for the Bath offence which they failed to convert as the first quarter closed out, with the Aber defence once again demonstrating fighting spirit with the game far from over and forcing the turnover on downs.
As the sides swapped ends, Bath looked to re-establish the run game now the wind was no longer in their favour. They eventually had success with QB Williams taking the ball him himself. After a poor snap on the extra point try, Bath had suddenly established a 13 point margin. Williams was to have success again later in the quarter carrying the ball over the line himself once more, and to pad his ego further he proceeded to punch in a two point conversion after a high snap he couldn’t get down in time for the kick. The half ended 21-0 to the Bees with Williams having played a part in every single point scored, fully deserving his Overall MVP award on his first half performance alone.
The second half began and it was clear things were not going to get easier for the Welsh side. Their offence continued to struggle under fierce pressure from the interior Bath defence, with Simon Hallissey earning himself the defensive MVP award after numerous tackles and a handful of sacks.
Bath continued to improve their ground game, and last season’s Offensive MVP Matt Styles widened the margin with a snaking run to the corner of the endzone. Once again, Leonard slotted home the extra point. The game drew to a conclusion with Williams finding the WR Leonard wide open in the endzone for his second TD pass of the day, and rookie RB Dom Chaopradith carrying the ball over for his first career score from short yardage. The rookie ran hard all day and was rewarded not only with his score but with the Offensive MVP tag, shared with fellow rookie Phil Gaskin (OL), from Head Coach Pat Snooks.
It was a much improved performance from the Bath team on both sides of the ball, along with some development on Special Teams with Tom Marston scooping the ST MVP nomination. With Birmingham now wiped from the memory banks, Bath look forward and concentrate on the upcoming game with the resurgent Plymouth Blitz. Having been the team to hold up the rest of the South West division in recent years, the rebranding to Conference 3 South seems to have given the south coast team a new lease of life as they currently share the division lead with the UWE Bullets, having won three from three and are yet to concede a single point. Bath will look to crush the confidence that must be building down in Devon and demonstrate they are still the team to beat having won the equivalent division title for the past two seasons.
Bath look for an “xplosive” start to the new season
This Saturday November 8th sees the Bath Killer Bees commence their 2008/9 campaign where they will look to make that extra step towards National Title glory.
Due to the luck of scheduling, the Killer Bees are to participate in the annual University of Birmingham xpLosION event. History shows that this event is the most highly spectated American Football game in the UK and this year looks set to be the biggest one yet. With Channel 5’s NFL team scheduled to be in attendance with their cameras, along with a £3000 fireworks display to be held post-game, it certainly should be an “xplosive” start to the new season for both teams.
The matchup also pairs the two teams who fell at the same Southern Conference semi-final hurdle last season, with the Lions going down 46-24 to the Hertfordshire Hurricanes and the Bees losing out to the Southampton Stags 35-13. The Stags went on to be the eventual National Champions, the second year running that the Bath outfit were knocked out of post-season competition by the eventual bowl winners.
However, a new season brings new faces, and with both teams graduating starting quarterbacks from the previous year, the matchup should provide a telling answer to who poses the biggest threat in the coming year. Last seasons starting wide receiver Tim Williams has made the transition to start under center for the Bees, replacing Matt Brookes who had been at the helm since the middle of the 2004/5 season.
Despite the weather looking decidedly wet for the scheduled 5pm kick off, an intriguing contest is not one to be missed.
All spectators are welcome to the University of Birmingham’s Bournbrook pitch, Grange Road/South gate entrance, with entry free for all.
For more information please visit the facebook event.
League Registration
In order to be eligible to play in the first game you need to register with the league.
You should be able to download the registration form here: Go to REGFORM.pdf on the LMF
You'll need to fill it all out (phone someone if you aren't sure, it's better than filling it out wrong!!) and get it into us by Sunday 26th AT THE LATEST! You'll also need £20, unless you've played senior league football over the summer (in which case it's £5) but you need to find out your BAFA number.
You'll also need a passport-sized photo to be sent off with the form.
Cheers all!
Gareth #18
Mini Camp- Sat 4th & Sun 5th October
These two days are specifically designed to get new players up to speed with
the basics of American football. By the end of the weekend, we will hopefully have
everyone putting on kit and getting involved in full contact practice. Our first game is
only 6 weeks away, so we need to start now!
In order to take put kit on and take part in contact, you need to be registered with the
club. This is for insurance purposes in the unlikely event anyone suffers an injury. We
will be checking on the day so please sign up before Saturday.
To sign up, you need to log in to bathstudent.com. If you go to the american football
page (http://www.bathstudent.com/sports/clubs/AmericanFootball/) there will be join link.
The first session starts at 10am on Saturday 4th of October on the sports pitches on the
left as you are leaving campus, see the map. We will stop for lunch and then do another session in the
afternoon.
You will need to bring:
Suitable sports clothes for training
Trainers / boots suitable for training on grass
Gum Shield
lunch / money for lunch
In
the evening there will be a social event starting in the plug bar. This will give you a
chance to socialise with the team and coaching staff and watch last years highlights DVD.
Sunday will run the same as Saturday, although we will start an hour later at 11am, so we
can all have a bit of lie in!
If you can only make one of the days, please still come along, you will still learn a lot
about the sport!
If you have any questions please email SUSAamericanfootball@lists.bath.ac.uk , use the
information on the flyers or see the contacts page on the website.
Hope to see you all on Saturday
.
The New Season Starts Here
The new season is well underway for the bees, with the coaching meeting held last weekend to plan the outline the strategy to to retain the South West Divisional Championship.
The Coaching staff continues to grow, with Adrian Dalmedo and Craig Rees joining the ranks to work with the Defensive backs and Line Backers, and Simon Johnson being promoted to Defensive Coordinator. Simon, a former bees player and representative for the GB bulldogs in 2002, has previously served as positional coach for the bees working with the linebackers and Defensive Line.
For the coming season, Bees football returns to campus for home games, after years of playing at the Sulis Club. The move is welcomed by Head Coach Pat Snooks, with the new pitch giving greater on campus presence and visibility to continue the growth and development of the team.
Mini Camp
The mini camp weekend was instigated 3 seasons ago as weekend dedicated to introducing the sport to new players. Nearly all the players for the Bees had no previous playing experience before taking up American football at University.
The mini camp gives you the opportunity to begin to learn about the sport, in an environment where the emphasis is on teaching people with no previous experience. The Killer Bees do not operate a cut policy, everyone who turns up and trains has the right to play and we turn no one away.
The mini camp will be the weekend following the sport fair, on Saturday the 4th and Sunday the 5th of October. There will be a social event on Saturday night, providing the chance to meet the returning players and explore some parts of the city.
2007/08 Seasons Review
Bath Killer Bees @ UWE Bullets - 4th November 2007 - Match Report
It was an emotional day in Bristol. Both teams had suffered team losses, with everybody there observing a 2 minute silence for both the Bullets cheerleader and the Killer Bees player who had passed away in the weeks prior to the game.
The sombre mental state only served to compound last years results, with both teams remembering the alternate blowouts for firstly Bath and then the Bullets, plus the Bullets playoff victory on their way to the National Championship Title. This left the perfect recipe for both a mentally, physically, and emotionally immense contest.
With the low afternoon sun in the eyes of the returner, the game, with all it’s pre-game emotions and frustrations, eventually started after an hours delay. A big tackle by Bath’s #11 Chris Gammond on the return signalled that this game was going to be every bit as physical at the umpteen other contests these closely matched teams have endured in recent times.
It was a nervy start to normal play, with the Bullet’s first two offensive drives ending with turnovers, both interceptions going to Bath’s #25 Luke Haslett. The Killer Bees offence struggled too, with their first three possessions ending with punts. The second quarter came and it was the Bullets offence who clicked first. They drove towards the Bath endzone ultimately coming up short, taking the field goal, and the three point lead that went with it.
After a short return, Bath’s offence followed the Bullets lead, and marched down the field, eventually giving the ball to freshman RB Anders Bengtson who rolled over from short distance. The PAT failed with the Bath kicker scurrying back to near the 30 trying to get the over-snapped ball. 6-3 Bath.
As time expired in the first half, the Bullets turned to trickery and ran a reverse Wide Receiver pass, which after being tipped finally got intercepted by senior safety #11 Chris Gammond, and the resulting tackle signalled the end of a physically draining half for both teams.
The second half started much like the first, with both teams making hard work gaining yards on offence. The Bath offence finally busted a big reception to senior receiver #80 Marc Vincent, who broke one tackle and then went the 43 yards for the six. Bath successfully went for the 2 with a bootleg by senior QB #10 Matthew Brookes, leaving the score 14-3 Bath.
The Bullets offence responded in the fourth quarter putting together a good drive. However, needing a score and going to the air once more, senior LB #4 Eddie Bell intercepted another Bullets pass which looked set to seal the game with only a few minutes left.
Bath, never a team to make light work of a victory proceeded to hand the ball straight back with an interception of their own only two plays later. This resulted in a score by the Bullets RB #14 Mike Adams inside the two minute warning, who got his very much deserved score on a run left from close range. The attempted two point conversion to bring them within a field goal was no good.
With UWE needing to recover the onside kick for any hope, junior lineman #69 Ant Williams managed to hang on to the ball and Bath were able to run out the clock for the 14-9 victory
Bristol Barracuda @ Bath Killer Bees - 18 November 2007 - Match Report
With the opening kick-off swirling in the unpredictable winds, the game was underway, with Bath winning the toss and electing to receive. Downed at the ten, the Bees offense took the field with Bristol in prime position to make an early defensive statement, but a powerful start by the offensive line and an agile, jinking run by halfback #15 Matt Styles, led to a 70 yard run to the end zone off the first play of the drive, buoying the Bees and dealing an early setback to the ‘Cuda. It was a sign of things to come in a career day for the sophomore Styles, as several stunning breaks gashed holes in the ‘Cuda defense, and sent him on his way to career highs in touchdowns (4), rushing yards (240) and average yards per carry (18.5). No end of credit can be given to the Bees offensive line, who effectively managed a powerful ‘Cuda defense, creating space and options for the talented Styles. Ably supported by freshman running backs#34 Anders Bengtson (9 carries for 84 yards with 3 touchdowns) and #41 Alex Devonald (3 carries for 6 yards and 1 TD), Styles had a breakout game, led by fullbacks #9 Ben Wiltshire and #18 Gareth Booth.
Forced to run by the outrageous weather, the Bees receivers took what chances they were given, led by senior tight-end #89 Joel Large (2 receptions for 25 yards).
Whilst the Bath offense scored with consistency, their defense showed aggression and control in holding a talented ‘Cuda offense to just 6 points. Inexperience was probably the undoing of the ‘Cuda team, but their showing of spirit and individual quality, backed up by a stellar coaching staff suggests it won’t be long before they are one of the league’s strongest teams. Indeed, with the return fixture just 3 weeks away, the Bees know next time will be a much tougher contest, supported by the ‘Cuda’s strongest drive, finished by a clinical touchdown run by Dave Egbosimba.
The final score: Bath Killer Bees 65, Bristol Barracuda 6.
Thanks must be extended to the Sulis Club, who provided an excellent pitch that held up miraculously in the conditions.
Cardiff Cobras @ Bath Killer Bees - 25th November 2007 - Match Report
Unexpectedly pleasant weather set the stage for the divisional clash between the Bath Killer Bees and the Cardiff Cobras, with a firm pitch and overcast skies presenting the opportunity for a tactical yet brutal encounter.
The Cobras wasted little time in challenging their opponents, as a clean 44 yard touchdown completion led them to a 7-0 lead with little time gone.
With the returner unable to take it cleanly, some stunning first-level blocking allowed the Bees good field position as the ball was downed just short of halfway from the resulting kick off, and the Cobras were answered with a strong drive, topped with a 12 yard touchdown run by Matt Styles. However, an embarrassing drop at the back of the endzone on a two point attempt left receiver Tim Williams red-faced, and the Bees still a point down.
Some stout defending forced the Cobras to punt, providing a chance for Bath to take the lead for the first time, which they duly took, behind more class running from the effervescent Matt Styles, who continued his strong recent form with 21 carries for 186 yards (3 touchdowns), ably supported by freshman Anders Bengtson, who topped 50 yards (15 carries for 51 yards, 2 TD’s.)
The Bees were hampered by careless penalties all day, and as a result went scoreless throughout the second period, Cardiff pulling within one, with a Steve Hutchinson run.
After the break, Bath stretched their lead with Bengtson running in from two yards out, but as their offense then stalled, and the penalties continued, Cardiff struck back with a long 50 yard field goal by Chris Hunt, and then took the lead with a 7 yard touchdown pass. With time-running out in the third, Bath were in real danger of losing their unbeaten record, but some strong, brave running by fullback Gareth Booth re-ignited the Bees and as Anders Bengtson scored late in the quarter, the game was sent into a tense final period with the Bees up 27-23.
The fourth was filled with tension as both teams fought for a vital divisional victory, but with an impressive defensive effort, and the match entering it’s final minutes, the score remained the same. Bath could breathe a sigh of relief when Matt Styles ran in from 26 yards, and as the final whistle blew they knew the score line didn’t really convey the closing pressure, and that their visit to Wales later in the season would provide another stiff test.
Final Score: Cardiff Cobras 23 – 34 Bath Killer Bees
UWE Bullets @ Bath Killer Bees - 27th January 2008 - Match Report
After concerns over the condition of the pitch due to the excessive rain in the southwest over the past week, the days preceding the game were dry and only wind hindered the players in favourable conditions. It was an occasion that Bath utilised to showcase their defensive power and discipline in a game where the offence experienced success only in fits and starts.
After returning the kick-off to their 17 yard line, a fumble forced Bath onto the back foot. The defense then made its first statement of the day by leaving the Bullets punting on 4th and 13. Starting from their own 9, the Bees made effective progress to the Bullets 8, utilising in-form receiver #5 Steve Leonard, who made 2 catches for 38 yards on the drive, totaling 4 for 68 for the game. However, an incomplete pass on 4th and 8 gave the Bullets the ball at their 18.
In a close encounter, this jockeying continued until the two minute warning of the first half. Bath then confidently drove downfield, and after a failed attempt to strike a touchdown, senior corner back #12 Adrian Dalmedo kicked a field goal as time expired to go 3-0 up.
The second half saw more of the same, as the Bees defense limited the Bullets to few first downs and looked unlikely to give away points. A chance for the Bullets to tie the scores slipped by, as the kick sailed wide left on a field goal attempt from 27 yards. Further punts ended the quarter and as they approached the fourth, both teams, realising how important the result was, steadied themselves for a final effort.
The Bees started the possession from their 24, and behind strong running from their trio of half backs – Gareth Booth (11 for 45), Matt Styles (11 for 43) and Anders Bengtson (11 for 21) drove the length of the field. At 1st and goal the Bees had their first clear opportunity to seize the daylight their defense had worked so hard for but after two short runs, they were left with one final opportunity to convert, or face being forced to kick another field goal. An arrowed pass right to receiver Marc Vincent (3 catches for 16yards) evaded the coverage and a secure catch meant Bath went up 9 – 0. A failed two point conversion left the score at that.
The defense again forced a punt, and, after stopping the Bullets again on 4th and 15, allowed the Bath offence to ice the game. A crucial victory for the Bath team was clearly won by their defense, who, led by veterans such as #98 Paul “Flounder” Jaggers (4 tackles), #46 Jack Goodfriend and #20 Marcus Da Costa, and ably assisted by promising rookies such as #39 Colin Dewar, showed their most complete performance of the season thus far.
Final Score: UWE Bullets 0 – 9 Bath Killer Bees
The result takes Bath to 4-0 and with a 2 game margin over their nearest South West rivals the division title is within their own hands. Next week they entertain the Plymouth Blitz at home on Superbowl Sunday, and will be looking commence the evenings festivities early with another victory.
Plmouth Blitz @ Bath Killer Bees - 3rd February 2008 - Match Report - DOUBLE HEADER
The cancellation of the first scheduled game earlier in the season meant the Killer Bees' hosting of Plymouth was even more crucial, as a double-header fixture had been organised with the kind agreement by the Blitz, BAFRA and BUAFL. Two results would be therefore obtained from the game as each half would count as one result.
Torrential rain was forecast and the skies were ominous but the game started on a firm enough pitch, with both teams eager to impose themselves. With Plymouth receiving the kick, Bath hit hard early forcing a 3 & out, and on the ensuing punt the punt return special team caused enough pressure for the punter to fumble the snap. The punter did manage to scoop the ball up and fire away a kick, but it flew high and short, into the arms of Jack Goodfriend, who had a stunning day on defense (6 tackles, 1 assist on the day). As the offence took the field for the first time, they had to gain just two yards for the score, an opportunity they duly took as Gareth Booth, a rising star in the Bath backfield ran in; selflessly led, as he and the other Bath tailbacks have been all season by raging bull fullback Ben Wiltshire.
After this short contribution, Booth went on to pound the Blitz defense for 139 yards on 25 carries, at an average of over 5.5 yards per attempt. After the extra point kick had sailed embarrassingly wide right, Plymouth would attempt a more clinical drive, in which they showcased the offensive potential that put 18 unanswered points on an impressive UWE team earlier in the season. Indeed it looked like they would have the opportunity to take the lead until shutdown corner #25 Luke Haslett made his first impression of the game, diving for an interception in his own endzone.
As the Bees lined up on their twenty, they took just six plays to drive the length of the field, culminating with a wide open pass to veteran Steve Leonard who gratefully strolled home.
Baths defense then shutdown the Blitz, allowing only four yards before the punt. They repeated the feat for the rest of the half, and after further scores from Tim Williams on a 30 yard catch from QB Matt Brookes, and a QB bootleg to the far corner of the endzone, Bath were able to kneel out the half to take the first fixture 30 – 0.
The score reset at 0-0, Plymouth started the second half with renewed vigour and stopped the Bees from scoring on their first drive. They clearly intended to return home with more of the bruises earned in a hard-fought first half. The Bath defense however, filled with players in form and hungry for tackles once again extinguished the Blitz enthusiasm, with heavy tackles from linebackers Jack Goodfriend and #51 Graham Johnstone the expression of hard training and positional discipline.
Bath were then able to put points up on the board as Matt Brookes completed from 2 yards to Marc Vincent and he also ran in another score. Brookes continued to show the clinical precision that has become his trademark in leading the side over the past seasons. He ended the day with 7 of 12 for 85 yards, 3 touchdowns and zero interceptions – a NCAA rating of 200.35, and a dominant performance, complemented by 46 yards rushing on 8 attempts, with 2 further touchdowns. Credit must be given to the Offensive Line, as once again Brookes ended a game without a sack (only 1 sack conceded in the last two seasons). Finally, the second half ended 17-0, and with it Bath had secured two wins, in a day the defense allowed no points and Bath moved a step closer to a strong play-off seed.
Their 6-0 record now ensures postseason football, but the Bees will be looking to do more than the 'one and done' of the past 3 years.
Bath Killer Bees @ Cardiff Cobras - 10th February 2008 - Match Report
Bath approached the game knowing a win over divisional rivals Cardiff would give them the division title, and move them to a 7-0 record, but as the offence was shut down for much of the game, they realised this would be no easy feat.
An effective initial drive ended in an endzone drop and a miss on the resulting field goal. Cardiff would not allow another opportunity of similar value in the entire half.
The Bath defence however, in strong form, fought hard to keep the Bees in the game, as the struggle for field position left them often scrapping to keep the Cobras at bay from well within their own half. As Bath’s running game seemed ineffective and the passing attack sporadic, Cardiff were able to open the scoring with a well struck field goal which sailed over from 38 yards, meaning Bath went into the half time break behind.
After a stirring talk during the interval, the Bees came out in the second half with new vigour, determined to make yards, but after the 3rd period ended with no scores added Bath were still under pressure, and facing their first loss of the season.
As they entered the fourth, Bath put further faith in the passing game, and it paid off, as a 14 yard pass to Tim Williams was followed by a 38 yard touchdown catch from the season’s standout receiver Marc Vincent, as he safely collected the pass and split the Cardiff secondary to race in for the score. Fortune followed on the point after, as Jack Goodfriend was able to scoop up the blocked kick and rumble in for two more.
Bath, now boosted after gaining the lead asserted some pressure of their own as the kick-off team forced the returner down at Cardiff’s two yard line. Following another defensive stop, Bath scored again, Matt Brookes throwing a 21 yard strike to Marc Vincent over the middle. It was an exact replica of the previous touchdown and as the extra point sailed over for a 15-3 lead, Bath finally had a little breathing room.
Bath were made to sweat in the final minutes, as Cardiff scored from a couple of yards out (having thrown deep numerous times, including a hugely fortunate pinball catch), but the recovery of the onside kick by senior receiver #85 Tom Marston made the game safe and the Bees ended the day victors of a 15-10 contest.
The Bees offense finally fired in the second half, but were it not for the wall-like efforts of the defence, the result would have been beyond them long before they came to life. Led by Marcus Da Costa, who returned an endzone interception past halfway to ignite the team, and who immediately shut any opening the Cobras thought they may be afforded, the defence swarmed all over the Cardiff run, their most nerve-wracking moments being the loss of D – Tackle Paul Jaggers to an ankle injury. The linebacker core continually closed down any threat of break-out yardage, and the D-line endeavoured all day long to put pressure on a QB playing out of shotgun for much of the game.
The result was what Bath were after, but the effort needed to get there proved another reminder of how competitive the game in the South-West is, and what challenges may be ahead in the play-offs.
Final Score: Bath Killer Bees 15 – 10 Cardiff Cobras
Royal Holloway Vikings @ Bath Killer Bees – Playoff Round 1 - 2nd March 2008 - Match Report
A blustery wind was to hamper the passing game of both teams, but enthusiasm and determination was abundant on both sidelines prior to the opening round of BUAFL’s 2008 play-offs. Bath won the toss and elected to receive, and after the returner salvaged a botched catch of the kick, Baths offense took over on the 24 yard line.
The Bees took the opportunity to stamp their intensity on the game with a long scoring drive, after a series of powerful running and explosive blocking from a pumped offensive line. Running back Anders Bengtson pounded in from 3 yards out to put Bath in the lead, and Adrian Dalmedo squeezed over the kick on a day he would struggle with the gale-force winds.
The next three drives all ended with no scores. After a stall the last time out, Bath extended their lead with Matt Brookes diving in from a yard out.
Royal Holloway then proceeded to exploit a seam in the Bath defence to the ultimate degree, but the long-range passing TD was stopped by a tripping penalty as a Holloway receiver tripped an ensuing Bees player. The Bath defense didn’t slip again, as they shut down the Vikings offence and forced a turnover on downs.
Baths offense clicked in the second quarter and put distance between the two sides. First, Matt Brookes connected with offensive MVP Marc Vincent down the sideline for a 28 yard score, then Matt Styles raced in from 34 yards, and Tim Williams ended the half confidently for Bath, as, after juggling the initial catch, he broke a tackle to run in from 48 yards. Buoyed by their second quarter execution, Bath led 32-0 at half time, and dampened Royal Holloway’s mood who had managed some dangerous early drives.
Bath scored only once in the second half, as Gareth Booth, led faithfully by Ben Wiltshire, scraped over from a yard out to put Bath 39-0 up. Baths defense continued to stifle the Vikings, forcing punts and turnovers consistently. Defensive MVP Marcus Da Costa had another stunning game, forcing the issue for an All-Star selection, with 7 tackles, an assist, and 2 further pass defenses. He was joined by the whole of the Bees swarming defense, including D – Tackle Ian Pinder who had 3 tackles, 2 assists and a mighty 3 sacks.
It was a welcome return to form for Bath’s offense too, as Matt Brookes ended with over 100 yards, 2 passing TD’s, a rushing TD and 1 Interception. The running backs, working together as they have all season long, provided Bath with 299 yards rushing, and 4 TD’s.
Final Score: Royal Holloway Vikings 0 – 39 Bath Killer Bees
Bath Killer Bees @ Southampton Stags - 9th March 2008 - Southern Conference Semi-Final - Match Report
Bath travelled to Southampton for their biggest test of the season. They were to play on a “3rd generation” astro surface for the first time, providing superior grip, if at the price of some bruised and bloodied knees.
Southampton won the toss and deferred to the second half. Bath duly received the kickoff and returned the ball to the 21 yard line. The Stags showed some early pressure and looked to earn a turnover having forced the Bees into a 3rd and 8 situation. However an arrowed pass from Matt Brookes (14 of 25 for 205 yards, 1 TD, 3 INT) to veteran receiver Steve Leonard (7 catches for 139 yards, 1 TD), found the receiver in space, and Leonard had the gas to outsprint the pursuing defenders 67yds and get Bath off to a dream start. With the extra point added by Adrian Dalmedo, Bath were up 7-0 after just 5 plays of the game and the Stags looked somewhat shell shocked. It was all Bath could have hoped for and buoyed the travelling team, whilst providing a platform for the effervescent defense to make a stand.
The defense then proceeded to stop the Stags after a solitary first down was earned, as Adam “Jonno” Smith bravely secured a fumble after Stags QB Katnik had the ball stripped.
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The next possessions of both teams ended with interceptions, as the defensive backs showed their catching ability. Marcus Da Costa, now a star of the Bees defense, added to his season tally as he took one away from the Stags QB, to go with his 11 tackles and 4 assists on the day. It was another outstanding performance, exemplifying the high standards he has showcased all season.
An incomplete pass and some unsuccessful runs meant Baths next possession ended with a punt, and the Stags took advantage of the good field position to tie up the scores – the drive culminating in a 5 yard passing touchdown to Ben Webb, who also added the extra point.
Baths next drive showed promise with a series of completed passes, but they were again forced to punt, Southampton taking control of the ball on the 30 yard line. The Stags offence was now starting to flow, and again they scored on a long drive, effectively mixing in draw plays with their passes from shotgun to keep the Bees off-balance.
Now the defences stepped up again to force turnovers of possession without any more scores. Bath’s final drive of the half, under pressure from the clock, showed clinical execution and composure, with several completed passes to Tim Williams (3 - 45 yards), but they fell just short after an interception on a tipped pass as time expired. Bath headed back to the changing rooms 14-7 in arrears.
As the players entered the second half, they were greeted by a cold downpour. The intensity of an extremely physical half was to wear down the Bees, as Southampton’s abundant numbers helped ward off the fatigue felt by some of their opponents. With Southampton scoring on their first two possessions, and Bath again falling agonisingly short with an interception in the endzone, the Stags had leapt out to a 28-7 lead.
As Bath fought tirelessly to haul in Southampton’s lead, they suffered another setback, one from which they would struggle to recover. Final year quarterback Matt Brookes dove for a crucial first down, but in doing so suffered a hard blow to his throwing shoulder. After soldiering on selflessly for a further drive, he could do nothing but succumb and Bath lost an influential leader, and someone who had given everything to the club for several years.
In that final drive however, Brookes showed his fighting spirit and led a drive the length of the field, from his own 7 yard line. Finally Bath were able to punch one in as Anders Bengtson (15 carries for 40 yards, 1 TD) reduced the deficit to 28 – 13. His score was the culmination of hard work by all the backs with other contributions made by Matt Styles (11 carries for 74 yards) and Gareth Booth (7 carries for 11 yards). All were led valiantly by MVP of the day, fullback Ben Wiltshire (8 carries for 61 yards), who fearlessly attacked the line, including several huge FB dives.
Only two plays after their second score, the defense, buoyed by further points on the board, managed to get the ball back to their offence in what looked to be a spirited comeback. Rookie middle linebacker #19 Richard Shuttleworth being the recipient of another errant pass by Stags QB Katnik.
Having had to leave the game, Brookes was replaced under center by the inexperienced Tim Williams (3 – 5 for 7 yards, 1 INT), and whilst he was able to lead Bath to another “goal to go” situation, they were again unable to find a score.
As the game wore on, the Stags added one further touchdown, and an heaved Williams pass was intercepted by their buoyant defense to effectively end the game. The game finished 35 – 13 to the Stags, a flattering score line to the victors, but a deserved victory nonetheless.
In the end Bath will rue missed opportunities. Whilst Southampton took advantage of all their trips inside the Bath 20yd line and came away with touchdowns each time, the Bees were only able to do the same once from 6 red zone visits. A fantastic performance by the Bath offence, and in particular the offensive line who managed to create space for the running backs even after the passing game was all but lost with the departure of Brookes, ultimately didn’t put points on the board. The defence contained the most explosive offence in College Football history admirably, and with some additional points to protect would likely have frustrated the Stags further.
After a brutal encounter, Southampton moves on to prepare to face the Hertfordshire Hurricanes in the Southern Conference Championship Game. For Bath, whilst a loss is never easy to take, knowing the effort and commitment of all the Bath squad – players, coaches, physios and all others involved in the game – the Bees can take some satisfaction in a record breaking season as they prepare for their alumni weekend, and another hard season commencing in the autumn of 2008.