U16s Coach Stephen Lewis’ Post Match Review – London Blitz Tournament

Following the cancellation of the 2020 season, our game day squad of 22 players (which included 18 who had never played contact football before), took part in the first tournament of the season; hosted by the London Blitz.

Our first opponents were the Hellingly Phoenix.

Offensive Captain, Callum Bodum opened the scoring with a touchdown catch from Quarterback, Patrick Karatx. The Exiles defence then took over scoring 26 of our next 32 points, including four safeties and defensive touchdowns from US Highschool Rabun Gap Nachoochee select – Onis Konan Banny and Kobi Nwaki, splitting the points between them. Samuel Johnson added our other score with his first touchdown catch. A 16-0 score at half time, which finished 38-0 in the Exiles favour.

Old rivals the London Blitz were up next.

Our offence began to settle into their rhythm during this game. Jack Sanctuary caught two touchdowns and a conversion for a 13-point game high total. The defence contributed scores from Defensive Captain, Caspar Harker from a fumble recovery and interception returns from Chijoke Davies and Onis Konan Banny.

The half time score was 39-0. Nathanael Fom caught his first touchdown for us in the second half. A strong effort from a Blitz player combined with uncharacteristic poor tackling led to a consolation score for them. The game finished 53-6 to the Exiles.

The Wembley Stallions were unbeaten heading into the final game of the day with us.

Terron Thompson (TJ) had been alternating at Centre (with Joseph Clare) and at Running Back (with Joey Williams and Tomas Newton) throughout the day. His 3 first half touchdown runs were instrumental in the contest giving us a 19-0 lead at the interval. Another defensive score and excellent goal line stand helped to preserve the shutout for a 31-0 final score.

All of our games were played in a competitive spirit, with no significant major injuries on any of the teams, as far as I am aware. A good sporting day our for all participants.

Thank you to all our players for their effort, coaches for their input and hard work (both on and off the field). Thanks also to all parents and supporters who attended and helped to contribute to the success of our day (including filming for us).

I would also like to thank our opponents for fielding teams for us to play, after a difficult period of time for all.

Our next tournament sees us hosting on Saturday 24th July at The Priory Leisure Centre, Tintagel Road, Orpington, BR5 4LG.