BEDFORDSHIRE BLUE RAIDERS 0 COLCHESTER GLADIATORS 26
05 August 2009
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The Blue Raiders travelled to Colchester determined to cause an upset and snatch the Conference title from the hotly favored Gladiators on their own door step.
The Blue Raiders started well, moving the ball deep into Colchester territory on their first two drives and forcing a fumble on the Gladiators very first play. But Bedfordshire failed to capitalize on these early opportunities and from then on the dominating Colchester defense and impressive Offensive Line took control of the game.
Colchester scored on runs of 22 yards by Matt Excell and 9 yards by Alex Robinson to end the first quarter 12-0 up. Despite only scoring once in the second quarter, a 3 yard run by Robinson, the Gladiators controlled the second quarter and went into Half Time with 19-0 lead.
The Gladiators added another score in the fourth quarter when QB Dan Singer found TE Steve Pinner in the End Zone to extend their lead further to 26-0.
The Blue Raiders moved the ball well at times in the second half, but lacked the consistency to trouble Colchester until late in the game. But an interception in the End Zone ended any hopes of getting back into the game.
Bedfordshire Head Coach, Chris Wallis, said “Obviously we are desperately disappointed with our performance today. But Colchester was the better team and certainly deserved today’s victory and the Conference title.
Our season isn’t over yet and we need to put this game behind us and prepare for our next game against Lincolnshire. We still have a chance to make the playoffs and certainly won’t be taking anything for granted.”
The Blue Raiders move to a 7-2 record and could clinch a playoff spot with a win in their final regular season game against the Lincolnshire Bombers this Sunday, the 9th August 2009. The game will take place at the Bedfordshire International Athletics Stadium, Barkers Lane, Bedford. Kickoff is at 1430.
Photo provided by John Singer, with thanks from the Blue Raiders.
Picture courtesy of Kevin Gedny, Official Photographer of the Bedfordshire Blue Raiders. This photo and many others available for purchase - visit Kevin's site: www.kevingednyphotography.co.uk
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