Past seasons

*W/O - Walkover due to inadequate medical cover, first responders with ambulance did not meet criteria.

Match reports

Nottingham Outlaws 2 – 13 Sheffield Sabres

The University of Sheffield Sabres took on last season’s playoff contenders, the Nottingham Outlaws in their first match of the 08/09 season, under the floodlights at a cold Bawtry Road on Sunday.

The Sabres started solidly, with an 80 yard drive on their first possession, rounded off with runningback Colin Williams storming into the endzone, putting the home side up 7-0 after just four minutes.

The rest of the game became a war of attrition between two solid defences, neither willing to budge an inch. After a fine Nottingham punt in the second quarter, Sheffield started a drive on their one yard line, and a strong blitz through the hole sent Sheffield runningback Jamie Mordue back into his own endzone, conceding a safety for two points, making the score at the half 7-2.

The third quarter started brightly for the home team, with linebacker Luke Shackleton recovering a fumble and safety Ali Veitch picking a Nottingham pass to give the Sheffield offence fine field position. The offence duly accepted their task, and runningback Colin Williams ploughed into the endzone for his second score, making it 13-2 to Sheffield.

The game once again deteriorated, but it was always comfortable for the Sabres defence, with strong tackles up the middle from rookie nosetackle Phill Rowbottom and veteran linebacker George Pollard. Safety Ali Veitch ended his day with three interceptions for a total of 65 yards, and Colin Williams leads the team with 85 rushing yards.

Sheffield Sabres 14 – 0 Derby Braves

The Sheffield Sabres travelled to Derby, to take on the 1-2 Braves. With a blizzard forecast, a dry, windless day pleased both offenses, as they looked forward to the Barti-Bowl.

Derby started on offense, and started confidently with three completions from QB Josh Bartimus. However, an impressive stand and a turnover on downs allowed the Sheffield offense to take the field.

In the first drive, QB Andrew Cropper completed his first ever pass, a 50 yard bomb to WR Alessandro Sidoli, but eventually the drive stalled, and P Kieran Rieley gave the ball to Derby.

Unfortunately, this would prove to be a regular occurrence for the Sheffield offence, which would regularly gain significant yards through RBs Mark Maguire and Colin Williams, before stalling and finding themselves in a third and long situation against a strong and aggressive defence.

The Derby offense was experiencing much of the same treatment, with both defences coming out on top. However, the Sheffield D managed to trump their East Midlands opponents forcing five turnovers on the day, including three more picks for S Ali Veitch and one for CB Stuart Boor.

The play of the day however was a sack and forced fumble from LB Kieran Reiley, with DE Jon Gladwin recovering the ball in the endzone for a touchdown. The extra point was missed by Ale Sidoli.

In the second half, the Sabres offense started to roll a little more, and through Mark Maguire, secured a 14 point win, racking up a touchdown, and running in the two point conversion to complete the days scoring.

Match reports

Hull Hornets 20-12 Sheffield Sabres (Pre season)

Sheffield Sabres eventually played their first preseason match of the season yesterday at their new Hillsborough home. The match against BAFL new boys Hull Hornets, had to be downgraded to a controlled scrimmage, but rookies and vets alike gained valuable experience against a strong Hornets side.

In driving rain, a rock-solid performance from the defence was complimented with a very positive offensive showing, especially considering the match was played in driving rain! The Sabres would also like to thank Hull Hornets for the outstanding patience shown, and we wish them all the best with their application to join BAFL.

Sheffield Sabres 6-0 Nottingham Outlaws (Pre season)

Sheffield Sabres showed much promise in beating a strong Outlaws side in a controlled scrimmage. Given five series each, the Sabres D, known as the Steel Curtain, held Nottingham to negative yards on offense, including multiple sacks from ends Jay Stec and Chris Lakin, and linebacker Tom Murphy. The offense stepped up to the plate on the final drive and a fine catch from sweepstake leader Sam Manger, gave the Sabres the win!

Sheffield Sabres 1-0 Stirling Clansmen

Sheffield Sabres are now 1-0 despite not playing an official match. No referees or pitch markings meant that a match couldn’t go ahead, but a controlled scrimmage still took place.

Stirling won this 3-0 with a first half field goal, but the game was marred by a broken leg to Sabres defensive captain Simon Vardy. Everyone with the Sabres wishes Fat Man the best and we’ll be seeing you up and about in no time.

Rookie of the Week: Sam Brzeski (LB)
MVP: George Pollard (LB)
Lineman of the Week: Jay Stec (DE, LT, K, P)

Lancaster Bombers 0-26 Sheffield Sabres

The Sabres offence led by veteran QB Paul Musker started the game strongly, scoring three touchdowns in twenty minutes. Musker found the hands of WR Matthew Paul for his first ever Sabres touchdown shortly before RB Colin “Cadillac” Williams ran in from seven yards.

After the change of ends, WR Sam Manger was the next to receive the ball, running it in at the corner for a touchdown. The defence then took their turn, by stopping dead a strong Bombers offense. Leading the tackles were LB Iain Adams, LB George Pollard and DE Jay Stec. The Sabres D racked up five turnovers through three fumble recoveries and two interceptions and even managed points of their own through Tom Murphy’s sacking of the Bombers QB in their endzone. The offense then secured the game with a touchdown to WR Henry Geen.

Rookie of the Week: George Pollard (LB)
D-MVP: Iain Adams(LB)
O-MVP: Paul Musker(QB)
Lineman of the Week: Colin Hatton(TE)

Hull Sharks 0-20 Sheffield Sabres

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Sheffield Sabres 3-6 Loughborough Aces

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Sheffield Hallam Warriors 0-12 Sheffield Sabres

The Sheffield Sabres took an important step towards clinching the North Western Division, by beating divisional arch-rivals Sheffield Hallam 12-0 on a sunny Sabre Field. The Sabres started well in front of a buoyant home support, and the first drive of the game ended up under the posts with WR Phil Hindes breaking his 06-07 duck, from a pass from QB Paul Musker. Unfortunately the two point conversion was missed.

The “Steel Curtain” then took the field, and kept the Hallam offense to a three-and-out, giving the Sabres the ball back on their 20. Paul Musker led his team to an 80 yard, 14 minute energy sapping march, ending with the diminutive signal caller high stepping into the end-zone untouched, behind his dominating line, from 7 yards, making it 12-0 after 20 minutes.

The Sabres D then shutout the game regularly keeping Hallam in their own half. Sacks from LB Will Hunting, DE Jay Stec and various others, and an interception from LB George Pollard, made sure of the shutout. Next weekend sees The Sabres travel to Lincoln to face HC Wilson’s new outfit.

Sheffield Sabres 36-0 Lincoln Colonials

The Sabres travelled to Lincoln to face former OC Al Wilson, and his new team, the Colonials. The Sabres started brightly, when the offence, led by QB Paul Musker, marched the length of the field, culminating in a WR Henry Geen touchdown, with the extra point converted. Lincoln’s offence had a torrid time with injuries and throughout the first half, struggled even to three-and-out, fumbling regularly.

Meanwhile, the Sabres offence had another drive, once again finished off by Geen. RB Tom Guy also ran in for the Sabres to cap off a high scoring first quarter. The Sabres defence got in on the act too, by gang tackling the Lincoln RB in his own endzone, to force a safety, and then from the ensuing free punt, KR Sam Broughton ran the length of the field to end up under the posts. The Sabres had a slight wobble as Lincoln continued to put up a fight with their strong defence. This was caused partly by LT Tim Mullinar fumbling downfield after receiving a lateral from Musker.

Sabres offence had one final score, when American WR Jerry Ushakov received a pass, in his first match, to round off a successful day at the office. There were outstanding performances from Paul Musker and Henry Geen on the offence, and Chris Lakin, Iain Adams and George Pollard on the defence.

Sheffield Sabres 39-12 Lancaster Bombers

The Sheffield Sabres clinched their first ever Divisional Title, whilst beating rivals Lancaster Bombers. Lancaster started strongly on offense, scoring with two of their first three drives, running the ball well, but the Sabres offense matched their counterparts, scoring on all but two possessions in the entire game. QB Paul Musker led the offense, throwing four TD passes, two to WR Henry Geen, one to WR Phil Hindes and one to rookie RB Cadillac Williams.

Cadillac also racked up yards rushing the ball, with some fine breakaway runs, one of which ended on the Lancaster one yard line. Sheffield also managed to convert three of the scores off the boot of K Matt Paul.

On defence, the Sabres managed to shutout Lancaster in the second half, with fine performances from DE Jay Stec, DE Chris Lakin, who earned a forced fumble from QB Woo Kim, and from LB Rob Oxley. A commendable performance from rookie LB Karl Hoddell who stepped up to the plate well. In winning this game, and Staffordshire beating Hallam, the Sabres won the North West Division for the first time in club history.

UT Cougars 1-1 Sheffield Sabres

This game was tied due to an unplayable pitch and inability to play the game before the playoffs.

Sheffield Sabres 0-13 Leeds Celtics (Playoffs)

The North West Division Champions Sheffield Sabres went to Leeds to take on the 6-2 Celtics. In torrential rain and high winds, the Sheffield passing offense was grounded, particularly when veteran QB Paul Musker left the game with double vision.

Leeds scored both of their touchdowns after blocked punts, and a very strong Leeds defence kept the Sabres offense static for most of the afternoon. The offense, led by QB Henry Geen dug in at the whistle, starting their last three drives on the 4, 2 and 1/2 yard lines, and desperate to maintain the offense’s nil points conceded this season. Best of Yorkshire luck to Leeds for their clash against Loughborough.

Sheffield Sabres 21-6 Sheffield Hallam Warriors (Varsity)

The Sheffield Sabres travelled to Bawtry Road to take on their cross-city rivals Hallam, with The Steelbowl, and the pride of their University at stake. The Hallam defence started strongly, causing the Sabres offense to struggle to move the ball in dreadful high winds and horizontal hail. Eventually in a stalemate game, a botched punt return gave Hallam good field position, and they managed to ground in a score, failing to add the sundries.

DB Chris Shaw then provided a moment of brilliance, and comedy, in stripping the Hallam ball carrier, and returning the ball, eventually to be tackled by thin air on the six yard line. After just two sneaks, the all-too familiar Lambeau Lay-Up was demonstrated as QB Paul Musker added to his season’s tally.

The Sabres defence as usual then managed to keep their opposition to minimal yards, capping off a very impressive season from a number of players.

WR Jerry Ushakov finished his Sabres career with style, strolling in at the corner after a well times reverse. Once again, the extra point was converted. Rookie RB Sam Broughton scored his first points from scrimmage, running over LG Kirk Mavraki for a 12 yard rushing TD.

The Sabres would like to thank everyone who has contributed this season, particularly to those who are leaving us for pastures new:

LB Will Hunting, LB Iain Adams, LT Tim Mullinar, WR Phil Hindes, TE Colin Hatton, K/WR Matt Paul, TE Michal Whitty, CB Simon Vardy, S Scott Davies, S Nick Jephson, WR Jerry Ushakov, S James Gizzo, TE Dan Zehner

Match reports

Sheffield Sabres 20 – 31 Staffordshire Stallions

The match opened up with both teams being forced to punt as defences were on top. The Sabres D stopped the heralded running back duo of Prince and Allen with some hard tackles, and this gave the Sabres territorial advantage as a result of the Stallions poor kicking. The Sabres asserted themselves on proceedings as the period wore on with a salmon like interception by #99 Will Scarlet Hunting and some big receptions for wide receiver Phil Hindes.

As the second quarter began, Sheffield broke the deadlock. QB Paul Musker linking up with #19 Hindes yet again for the touchdown. Scores flooded in now, with the Stallions responding on the very next drive with #17 Prince rushing in for the touchdown. With the point added it was now 7-6 to Staffordshire. The Sabres hit back though with yet more pinpoint passing from Musker linking up with WR Sam Manger, maintaining his record of scoring in every game he has played for the Sabres.

Celebrations were cut short though as #1 Allen returned the kick-off and restored the Stallions advantage at 13-12. The scoring wasn't over though and the Sabres finished the half strongly with the O Line dominating and proving that they could run block as well as pass protect on a 50 yard drive finished by #14 Ian Clark with a six yard rush. Points machine Manger added the two points.

The plan for the Sabres was obviously now to keep the ball away from the Stallions running back duo, resulting in some accurate rugby league style grubber kicks from Tom Murphy on kick off. This combined with some solid defence meant the Sabres went in at half time 20-13. A scoreline which didn't really reflect how good the Sheffield team had played in a fixture Staffordshire were expected to win comfortably.

The second half saw the Stallions fight back with Prince moving to QB, and Allen in the backfield. The Sabres defence struggled against the NFL Europe running backs and Allen scored a rushing TD to bring the scores to 20-19. It wasn't quite a two man performance for the Stallions and their defence notably improved after the break with an interception, which the Sabres centre Harry Fellowes saw as a chance to nail someone slightly smaller than a D lineman for a change, which he took with glee with a monster tackle on the interceptor.

Despite some resolute defending to stop the rushes up the middle, with lineman Bones being particularly impressive, the QB option was the route for the Stallions with Allen again rushing home to give Staffordshire a 25-20 advantage. In the final quarter, the Stallions defence forced a punt from which the Stallions controlled the clock and finished the game with QB Prince rushing for the score.

The final score of 20-31 was harsh on the Sabres who had outplayed the Stallions for large parts of the match but were punished by two outstanding individuals. Special praise goes out to the secondary who shut down the Stallions passing game completely and the O line, especially Tim Mullinar, winner of the Lineman Pie, who dominated the Stallions D line.

Sheffield Hallam Warriors 18 – 12 Sheffield Sabres

The Sheffield Hallam Warriors won the Steel City derby over their neighbours the Sheffield Sabres, 18-12 in a match of contrasts. The first half finished with a dull score line of 0-0 as both offences struggled to move the ball. The warriors had some success running to the outside but it was the Sabres who were the better team as #30 Simon Vardy got an interception and the offence drove the ball twice within five yards of the score and failed to convert on both occasions.

Unfortunately the Sabres couldn't convert their superior first half play into points and were punished instantly after half time as Hallam scored on the first play, again using the sweep for a 70 yard touchdown. This sparked the Warriors into life and they profited off two turnovers, first an interception then a fumble recovery, scoring off both to take the game to 18-0.

The fourth quarter saw the Sabres fight back and in a period they dominated, almost clawing back the game after the disastrous third quarter. Two quick fire touchdowns pulled the Sabres within a score. First QB Musker linked up with RB Tom Guy then WR Phil Hindes to give the Sabres hope as they pulled the score back to 18-12. The fight back was left too late though as the Warriors saw out time, taking a knee, to win the match. Yet again in a match the Sabres were much better than their opponents for large sections, the opposition had caught the Sabres out straight after half time and more concentration is going to be needed to turn around the season for a team with so much potential.

Sheffield Sabres 8 – 0 Hull Sharks (OT)

The Sabres finally got the win their encouraging start to the season has deserved, with a tough 8-0 victory. A Phil Hindes touchdown in the second period of overtime proved decisive in an exciting contest against Hull Sharks. A bruising defensive encounter saw the score after 60 minutes remaining at 0-0.

The Sheffield defence was particularly impressive forcing numerous turnovers and catching numerous Shark plays in the backfield. Linebacker Rob Oxley was a standout with countless tackles including stopping two reverses for a loss, proving that he is truly a player who is good at running at things. Lineman Jasper Chandel also impressed as he sprung over an attempted cut block to sack the Sharks QB and force him into a fumble.

The Sabres D kept Hull away from the red zone for the most part with the D-Line corp of Chandel, Lakin, Wetton and Bones learning to cope well with an offense focusing on its interior running game. The D were however outfoxed by a Hull punt fake bootleg with punt returner Ian Clark called into emergency action to stop the touchdown.

The offence enjoyed a day of mixed fortunes, employing both ground and aerial attacks for big gains only to be stopped by a dropped catch or unlucky call. However, in the fourth quarter the Sabres offence finally clicked, driving the length of the field but ultimately being held by a solid Sharks goal line stand, failing to convert from a yard out with seconds to go. Looking to carry this momentum into overtime, the Sabres felt they had taken the ascendancy as linebacker Shaun Birch instantly grabbed the loose ball after a fumble. Not to be outdone, the Sharks defence matched that with an interception, taking the game into a second period of overtime.

The Sabres O were still confident of victory, choosing to stay on the field, safe in the knowledge that WR Phil Hindes hadn’t scored his customary touchdown yet. That confidence looked justified when QB Musker linked up with WR Sam Manger, only to be judged over the line of scrimmage as he passed. The Sabres, however, would not be denied and Phil Hindes came through on the very next play. He outleapt his cornerback to claim his third touchdown of the season. WR Henry Geen got the two points afterwards with another good reception. With the pressure now on, the Sharks couldn’t respond as the Sheffield defence kept their heads for the shut out and a 8-0 Sabres victory. The MVPs for the day were QB Paul Musker and LB Rob Oxley.

Sheffield Sabres 66-16 Paisley Pyros

The Sheffield Sabres produced a good performance to run out comfortable winners over Paisley 66-16. The sabres were expected to win and got off to a great start with Ian Clark rushing for a 60 yard touchdown on the very first play and Henry Geen adding the two points. However, the Pyros responded well and pulled the game back to 8-8 with a good reception after making 30 yards on a punt play. It is doubtful whether Phil Russ will ever go near a punt again.

Sheffield were not affected and pressed forward with Sam Manger receiving from 40 yards, and Gareth Rees got on the scoresheet for the first time this season with the two point conversion. The defence now started to shut down the Pyros O and immediately turned the ball over. Clark again ran for the score, this time from 30 yards, somehow ending up on the right side of the end zone again despite the run being to the left, and Neil Jefferson scored his first ever Sabres points rumbling over for two.

Suki Sharma was next to score with a 30 yd run, as the Pyros players began to tire as most of them were playing both ways. A fine half of rushing from the Sabres was completed with Tom Guy getting his second TD of the season with a reverse and Phil Hindes making sure of the two, making the half time score 36-8.

The Sabres carried on in the same fashion in the second half with a good kick off team making sure the Pyros never got good field position. In no time, Manger again received for the touchdown and in the process smashed his previous best of two catches in one game. Jefferson added another touchdown with a bruising run after the catch and his fellow tight end Chris Hughes got his first of the season with a spectacular (and unnecessary) dive into the end zone. Gavin Bones added the two from the tail back position (to add to his lineman pie award) as the O line continued to make holes.

The defence had been strong throughout and forced a fumble turnover and Russ showed he can catch with an interception. Paul Musker completed a good performance from QB linking up with Phil Hindes to record his first ever match throwing for 5 TDs, and Martin Lewis completed the scoring making sure of the two from running back despite playing most of the game for the defence.

The Pyros didn't drop their heads though, and scored a 60 yard receiving touchdown in the second half, as they battled throughout. They then went for the onside kick, but veteran lineman Harry Fellowes spotted this and leapt into the air to snare the football, he then proceeded to return the ball a good 10 yards. Sheffield produced their best performance of the season and the MVPs were Ian Clark and Iain Adams but it was a fine all round team performance.

Sheffield Sabres 22 – 6 Leicester Lightning

The Sheffield Sabres continued their impressive recent form with a 22-6 victory over the Leicester Lightning. It was a hard fought match, especially considering the conditions it was played in. The pitch was so muddy it made the running game difficult for both sides, as grip was almost non existent making quick cuts tricky, and many players slipped with no one around. However, Phil Hindes scored on the first drive to give the Sabres the lead. Henry Geen got the two points.

The Lightning hit back on the next drive though and charged over from a yard to make the game 8-6. Just before half time though the Sabres special teams charged to block the punt and gave the offence excellent field position and Chris Hughes converted to give the Sabres a 14-6 half time lead.

The second half was a struggle against the conditions, but the Sabres pulled clear when Sam Manger scored the touchdown and Henry Geen converted the two points. With such a lead the Sabres seemed destined for victory and the defence stepped up with some big hits from Will Hunting, Tom Murphy and Chris Lakin, with good pass coverage from Nick Jephson, to make sure the Sabres had the ball for most of what remained of the match. The offence toiled for some hard yards but the worsening pitch and some good Leicester defence meant the game stayed at 22-6.

The MVPs for the Sabres were Paul Musker for offence, and Tom Murphy for an impressive performance for defence and as kicker.

Leicester Lightning 0 – 66 Sheffield Sabres

The Sheffield Sabres emerged victorious for the second time in as many weeks against the Leicester Lightning. This match was more comfortable for the Sabres who won 62-0. Martin Lewis was the offensive MVP, scoring three touchdowns, and Chris Lakin was MVP for the defence after an impressive game on the D-line.

Sheffield started strongly and Jasper Chandel, Matt Wetton and Neil Tuckwood all recovered fumbles and Simon Vardy and Shaun Birch turned over with interceptions, to make sure the Sabres offence had the ball for the majority of the game.

The Sabres stormed into a 40-0 half time lead with Martin Lewis getting the first two of his touchdowns, including an impressive 45 yard run breaking five tackles, Phil Hindes getting two touchdowns and Henry Geen and Paul Musker each getting on the score sheet. Musker also converted two two point attempts. After the break the Sabres kept up the pressure, with Neil Jefferson, Sam Manger and Lewis again getting on the score sheet, and Ian Clark and Sam Manger getting two points each.

Staffordshire Stallions 23 – 14 Sheffield Sabres

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Lancaster Bombers 4 – 18 Sheffield Sabres

Sheffield Sabres ensured a playoff spot for the second time in club history. In a victory over division rivals Lancaster Bombers, the Sabres ensured the sixth place berth in the Northern Playoffs. Sheffield got off to a flying start with a good kick return from Tom Wyke giving the Sabres offence excellent field position. Although failing to score in the first quarter, the Sabres defence stopped the Bombers offence gaining any yards, giving Sheffield territorial advantage.

Tom Murphy and Gavin Bones each got interceptions. Sheffield's pressure paid off at the beginning of the second quarter with QB Paul Musker rushing for the score. An intercepted two point attempt made the score 6-2. The Sabres still had the momentum, however, and drove the ball upfield. Martin Lewis rushed in for the touchdown just before half time to give Sheffield a 10 point advantage.

After the break, the Lancaster offence began to move the ball with more success, having a field goal attempt blocked and failing to convert a fourth down deep inside Sabres territory. Sheffield's defence held firm, marshalled by defensive MVP Bones, allowing the offence to wear down the clock on a long fourth quarter drive.

Offensive MVP Ian Clark made big gains rushing and FB Neil Jefferson finished the drive from close range to put the game out of Lancaster's reach. A failed two point attempt made the final score 18-4.

Sheffield Sabres 12 – 46 UT Cougars (Playoffs)

UT Cougars ran out comfortable winners against the Sheffield Sabres. Despite being favourites the Cougars struggled in the first quarter with Sheffield looking the better team driving the ball upfield twice only for a fumble and interception to stop progress. With a tight first quarter coming to an end, Teeside made the breakthrough to make the score 8-0. This seemed to stop their early nerves and the team started the second quarter brightly, scoring quickly.

Simon Vardy got the Sabres back in the contest, however, with a 60 yard interception TD to make the game 16-6. However Teeside did not falter and an impressive second quarter brought another two TDs and a safety. With the half time score 32-6 Teeside looked to have the game in the bag but a spirited second half performance from Sheffield kept the game interesting. Martin Lewis dived over from close range before the Teeside QB threw some long bombs to his receivers to make the score 46-12.

Match reports

Lancaster Bombers 43 – 24 Sheffield Sabres

A shoot-out of a first quarter began with Kick-Return O.J Isiavwe giving the Sabres great field position after a 35 yard return. However a series of penalties pushed the Sabres back into their own red zone and an error on the punt team saw Bombers‚ Andy Doran recover a fumble to put Lancaster up by 6. Jack Turner ran in the 2 PAT. The Sabres bounced straight back when QB Paul Musker found WR Guy Lawrenson for the TD pass.

Some good rushing from the Bombers saw them increase their lead soon after when RB Turner ran in to put the Bombers up by 14 to 6. Sabres hit back again when Musker connected with WR Matt Harding for the score, after four straight completed passes helped the Sabres drive half the field. A 10 yard field goal from Bombers‚ Chris Mayne saw the Bombers increase their lead at the end of the first.

Caledonian Roughriders 2-18 Sheffield Sabres

The Sabres moved to 2-0 with a win against league newcomers the Caledonian Roughriders. The Sabres forced a turnover from the first play from scrimmage when Roughriders QB Graham Porterfield was intercepted by DB Daniel Smyth. The Sabres quickly turned this into points with a 31-yard pass from QB Paul Musker to Ryan Spokas. The Sabres scored again when Musker broke free on a QB sneak to scamper away for a 35-yard TD run. The Sabres closed out the first half with a 14-yard TD run by Robert Levy.

The second half turned into a defensive stalemate and eventually lead to the Roughrider first ever BCAFL points when James McIntosh tackled the Sabres punter in his own end zone. Forced to go to the air, the game was sealed when Scott Davies picked off Porterfield, leaving the Sabres Offence able to take a knee. The Roughriders started nervously in their first League game but settled to hold Sheffield out in the second half and with a good squad size look to have a promising future. An early Sabres Punt in the 2nd gave the Bombers possession that they took full advantage of as QB Mayne connected with WR Adam Saul for the TD. The teams exchanged Punts before a huge 40 Yard TD Run from Lancaster RB Turner at the end of the half sent the Bombers in up by 17.

The second half started as relentless as the first as Bombers QB Mayne found WR Mark Sorroso for a huge 35 Yard TD pass, which was converted with the 2 PAT by RB Turner. The rest of the quarter was all about defence as the Sabres calmed things with some good stops from DT Chris Lakin and LB Will Hunting, before DT Robert Oxley blocked a field goal attempt by the Bombers.

The Sabres fought back with 2 TDs in the fourth. The first saw an excellent pass from Sabres relief QB Jonathan Weller reeled in by WR Jan Moll. Lancaster replied with a howitzer 32 Yard TD pass to WR Joe Black, before a superb trick play from the Sabres saw TE Chris Hughes lateral a pass to QB Weller who ran in for the score, ending an exciting game at 43-24.

Sheffield Sabres 8 – 26 Sheffield Hallam Warriors

Don Valley Stadium was the venue for the clash of the season for both Sheffield teams as the Warriors and Sabres squared up for the first time in the 2004/2005 season. In a passionate and tense affair, the first quarter saw strong defences stamp their mark on proceedings leaving little in the way of a running game for either team. It wasn’t until the second quarter when clever play calling by Warriors Offensive Co-ordinator, Matt Harvey got Jon Bartley in to the end zone on a 69 yard run. As the quarter wore on the Warriors began to become more dominant. This was converted in to six more points when QB Paul MacIntosh hit Jon Barley for a 12 yard touchdown pass which closed out the half.

Almost immediately after the restart the Sabres fumbled on their first possession, the ball was scooped up by LB Charlie Bradley who went in for the core from 15 yards. The Sabres tried to fight back with good running by the speedy half back OJ Isiavwe, however it was the running game of the Warriors that produced the points as Matt Lambert went in from 25 yards.

The Sabres got some small reward for their hard efforts driving well in the forth quarter and eventually breaking through the Warriors defence thanks to a four yard fullback dive. QB Paul Musker added the two point conversion to end the game 26 – 8 in the Warriors favour and signal huge celebrations across the Hallam University side of Sheffield.

Sheffield Sabres 0 – 28 Lancaster Bombers

The return fixture of the game two weeks ago started similarly as before. The first quarter was dominated by defence. Both teams were forced to punt as the sides struggled to drive the ball down field. The Sabres forced the first turnover of the game as FS Scott Davies leapt for the interception, and a monster block from LB Gavin Bones allowed him to return it 15 yards. Sabres RB OJ Isiavwe helped drive the Sabres into the red zone but the O found themselves unable to get in for the score.

The start of the second quarter saw another interception for FS Scott Davies, returning the ball into Bombers territory. Sheffield were again unable to capitalise, but the pattern continued as on the Bombers’ next possession, they threw another interception. This time it went to LB Rob Oxley, who again gave the Sabres good field position. A series of penalties cost the Sabres the scoring opportunity, and the only points of the half fell to the Bombers as LB Adam Robertson picked off QB Paul Musker, returning it the short distance for the score.

Lancaster quickly doubled their lead in the second half. RB Jack Turner sweeping in for the 10 yard TD Run. The two PAT was this time good, reeled in by WR Patrick Gorril. the Sabres gained momentum in the fourth, and two fantastic WR reverses by Morton Olsen saw the Sabres drive the length of the field twice, but both times failed to produce in the red zone.

The Sabres D came up with some good stops the following series as the Bombers found themselves on the Sabres goal line. Tackles from LB Rob Oxley, DE Noel Garcia Garcia and FS Scott Davies forced the Bombers to forth down, but the final attempt was just crept in by QB Chris Mayne.

Sheffield seemed to gain a score of their own after a great HB counter saw Terry Burke run in 25 yards for the TD, only to be called back for a holding penalty on the line. In the dying minutes, Lancaster completed their win with a short pass to WR Joe Black, who broke through two tackles before running in the extra 50 yards for the score. Black got the two PAT aswell as the game ended in horrific weather, 28 points to nil.

Loughborough Aces 40 – 0 Sheffield Sabres

With mist rolling in from the peaks, the game got off to a very quick start, with Loughborough gaining great field position on the kick return, and RB Craig Flower running in the TD on the third play of the game. The Sabres were forced three and out and Flower soon doubled his tally with a carbon copy of his first score. K Andy Studer this time tagged on the extra point.

The first turnover of the game fell against the Aces as QB Storey was picked off by FS Scott Davies. But the Aces completed their dominance of the first quarter with RB Matt Pulsford running in for the score from 10 yards. The PAT was good from Studer and the Sabres O and D were still looking to get it together.

Still not at their full potential, the Sabres D improved in the second, but it wasn’t enough to keep out Flower for his third TD, and Loughborough’s fourth. Studer tagged on the PAT and the Sabres looked demoralised. But Sheffield’s offence began to turn it on. An awesome pass from QB Jonathan Weller was superbly caught by WR Morton Olsen for 30 yards, right in the thick of double coverage from the Aces’ secondary. But the Sabres were unfortunate not to be able to move the football in the red zone. Aces’ QB Dan Storey threw a bomb of his own late in the half which saw WR Rich Cole grab the 40 Yard TD Reception.

Half time proved a turning point for the Sabres’ mentality, as the O came out in the third to play with the kind of heart that deserves to win ball games. RBs Terry Burke and Morton Olsen tore through the Aces’ D as Sheffield charged the length of the field, setting up a first and goal on the three yard line. Despite the efforts of FB Tom Onyeador, the Aces’ D held it together brilliantly to keep out Sheffield from the score. Loughborough scored their final points with another run, this time from Rich Cole, and Studer again tagged on the PAT.

The fourth quarter proved frustrating for the Sabres as they struggled to get into the end zone, after twice driving the length of the field. The Aces’ final push was halted by tackles behind the line of scrimmage by SS James Smith and sacks for LB Chidi Edordu and DT Noel Garcia-Garcia, who is so good they named him twice.

Proving to be a game of two halves, the match ended at 40 – 0.

Sheffield Hallam Warriors 34 – 22 Sheffield Sabres

The Sheffield derby match saw the Sabres wanting to take revenge for the defeat last time round, but it was the Warriors who had the first word. A frustrating first period for both sides saw the exchanging of punts, and just the one score, as Warriors RB Matt Lambert broke tackles to run in the TD from nine yards. Lambert also kicked the PAT.

A mistake by the Sabres punt return team saw Hallam regain possession inside the Sabres five yard line. But the Sabres D put up a good stop and LB Gavin Bones recovered a fumble to give the Sabres possession as the quarter drew to a close. Hallam soon had the ball back and were able to increase their lead after a double move caught the Sabres Secondary flat footed as WR John Gilmartin reeled in the pass from QB Paul McIntosh for the TD.

The next Hallam possession saw a carbon copy TD but this time the pass went to WR Andrew Bullock. Lambert tagged on the extra point. The momentum seemed to shift towards the Sabres as FS Scott Davies grabbed his fifth interception of the year, but the play was called back for a late hit on the Warriors’ QB.

The Sabres O was still struggling but the half ended only after a fantastic special teams TD. Hallam punted and returner Morten Olsen set out on a run that saw him go 40 yards and into the end zone for the score, after some great blocking on the return team. The Sabres edged back slightly further with the two PAT that was caught superbly by the diving, outstretched arms of TE Chris Hughes.

The start of the second half came with bad news for the Sabres as RB Lambert ran a 20 yard sweep into the end zone, and the Sabres lost LB Will Hunting through injury, and DT Eddy Mellor through ejection. The extra point was good and the Sabres O looked increasingly confident. QB Jonathan Weller hit TE Hughes and RB Terry Burke made some good rushes to set up great field position at the end of the third.

The Sabres O were able rid themselves of the Red Zone impotency they’d shown previously as RB Morton Olsen ran in a 10 yard sweep to decrease Hallam’s lead. But the Warriors bounced back with a TD Run from QB McIntosh, after the Sabres had made nine stops inside their own 10. Lambert kicked for their final points of the game. The Sabres had another score in them though, and after setting himself up on a 40 yard run, RB Gershom Kulaba ran in a sweep for the Sabres third TD. Kulaba grabbed the two PAT as well. Hallam recovered the onside kick as the clock ran down in Sheffield with the score 22 – 34.

Sheffield Sabres 0 – 49 Staffordshire Stallions

With the holiday season over, the Sabres travelled to Stoke to take on divisional rivals the Stallions. With the Sabres O taking to the field their running game looked effective with an immediate first down. Forced to punt, the Sabres D made the Stallions work ultra hard for their first TD, which was ran in by Jason Prince. Stewart Wren kicked for the PAT. The Sabres O began to struggle and the Stallions soon doubled their lead. This time through the air with a Lee Treays TD reception. Wren kicked the PAT.

The Sabres D stepped up in the second quarter and good coverage in the end zone forced QB Chris Richards to just creep in for the score on foot. LB James Smith Blocked the PAT, as the half drew to a close.

Prince scored his second early on in the third quarter, and with Staffs needing extra points for their playoff hopes, the two PAT was good. The Sabres O put together a good looking drive with QB Jonathan Weller finding WR Guy Lawrenson and TE Chris Hughes through the air, and RB Ben Palin added the yardage that gave the Sabres good field position. But Stallions LB Oliver Darne picked off Weller and returned all the way for the score. The following series saw Sheffield pushed back towards their own end zone and Stallions LB Bret Rosenbaum made the tackle that gave them a safety.

The Stallions grabbed two more scores in the fourth. But only after some good rushing from the Sabres, with Gersom Kulaba on the reverse and Ian Clark through the middle. Gurjeet Singh Sanghera grabbed the final TD reception for the Stallions and Wren again kicked the PAT. The very end of the game saw Staffs RB Jermaine Allen grab a deserved TD on the ground, and the game finished 49-0, with a depleted Sabres squad down but not disheartened at a display that showed great team spirit and camaraderie.

Sheffield Sabres 0 – 20 Nottingham Outlaws

The small matter of Super Bowl XXXIX may have been in the back of some minds but first there was another game to be played this side of the pond. The Sabres’ final road trip of the season saw them travel to nearby Nottingham, to face the evenly matched Outlaws.

The opening quarter was a battle of the defences as both sides struggled to churn up any yardage. Sabres LB James Smith forced a fumble on the second play of the game, and the Outlaws were forced to punt on fourth down. QB Jonathan Weller led the Sabres O onto the field and immediately they established their ground attack with RBs Terry Burke and Ben Palin.

Forced to punt though, the D found themselves in midfield, and when LB Iain Adams blocked the following punt, the Sabres O received great field position inside the Nottingham 10. But they were unable to take advantage and the Outlaws soon came back with the football. It took until the very end of the half for the first score. The Sabres D bit on the Play Action leaving WR Tomos Longworth wide open for the 18 Yard TD Rec. Adam O Keefe tagged on the extra point.

But the with the Sabres D looking tired and looking for the half time whistle, they were dealt a crushing blow, as Ginger Pain Train Anal Will Hunting was forced to come off with an injury. Nottingham were able to sneak another score before the break, as QB John Cuthbert Brown broke out from the option and some superb blocking allowed him to go 50 yards for the score. Keefe grabbed the PAT.

The Sabres found themselves in an all-too-familiar position at halftime, being two scores down and yet to make a mark on the scoreboard themselves. But the team knew that this time, they deserved better. A fourteen-point lead did not really do justice to the new 3-5 defence that HC Jake Treen had masterminded. And as if in realisation of their unmerited position, the Sabres O came out in the third period and immediately stepped up their game.

The dynamic duo of Terry Burke and Ben Palin churned out some hard yardage on the ground, while QB Jonathan Weller connected with veteran WR Guy Lawrenson through the air, picking up first downs on the way. As with much of the season, the red zone proved to be the falling point for the Sabres. Desperately unlucky not to grab the TD, Weller’s pass proved too high for WR Jan ‘Hoff’ Moll, and an interception brought to an end the best looking drive of the game.

Sabres LB Chidi Edordu continued his brilliant return to the Sabres side in the following series, while Iain Adams and Peter Curteis continued to allow the Outlaws nothing on the ground. O Lineman Harry Fellowes played another standout performance as a replacement on the defensive line, alongside the brilliant rookie Chris Lakin, and of course fan favourite Big Fat Big Fat Gav. Rob Oxley proved why he is D vice-captain, while the secondary of Davies, Vardy, Waller and Palin ensured the Outlaws has little success through the air. The war of attrition did however ware down the D eventually, allowing the final score for the Outlaws, with RB Yamoah Berchie breaking tackles and following some good blocks, going 35 yards for the score.

The final series however, belonged to the spirited offence. Set up by a James Smith interception, the O Line sat at the heart of a good-looking drive that was undeservedly shut out. A fine performance from rookie Tom Guy went hand in hand with the hard work of Wetton, Fellowes, Jefferson, Hughes, and future hall of famer Griffiths. RB Gershom Kulaba made full use of his superb pace to gain yardage on the sweep, and the sheer power of Tom ‘the Bus’ Onyeador helped the Sabres edge closer to that elusive score.

But in the end it wasn’t to be, as Nottingham ensured another shutout. An enthralling and exhausting game ended 20 – 0. The Sabres have now only one game of the regular season left, and hope to use the match as a building block towards the very winnable Varsity game. With the refreshers fair and the unveiling of the new committee just days away, the Sabres have good times to look forward to. This reporter for one, is sure that extra-hard work in training can combine with the brilliant team spirit that the Sabres have shown, and thus making a the Varsity game a very interesting match-up indeed.

Staffordshire Stallions 25 – 0 Sheffield Sabres

On a blustery Sabre Field, the Stallions found themselves a score up before you could say ‘red zone defence’. RB Graham Roberts charged through the middle for the TD and Stewart Wren tagged on the extra point. Up stepped the Sabres O. With their ground attack halted, they took to the air and QB Jonathan Weller hit WR Guy Lawrenson for the first down. RBs Terry Burke and Ben Palin gained the yardage that took them into the red zone, but a fumble in the backfield gave Staffs possession.

For the rest of the half, defence was the key. Sheffield twice stopped the Stallions inside their own ten, and DT Harry Fellowes blocked a field goal. Out of almost nothing, the Sabres found themselves two scores down, after Stallions QB Chris Richards ran a sneak that sent him 30 yards for the score. Again the kick was blocked, making the half time score 13 – 0.

In a ‘start of the half’ rerun, the Stallions hit the end zone almost immediately, with QB Richards running out on the option, and just creeping into the corner. LBs Rob Oxley and Will Arran stopped the two PAT. The Sabres O again struggled once in the red zone, but they did put together some good-looking drives that went the length of the field. RB Burke churned out the yards on the ground while TE Chris Hughes made the possible catch of the season, diving between two defenders and reeling in with outstretched arms.

The Stallions sealed victory with their fourth TD. Forced to go in on the ground due to extremely tight coverage from the Sabres defensive backs, RB Brett Stabler crept in from the five yard line with defenders clinging on from all sides. Again the two PAT was stopped, but with the score at 25 – 0, the gap was too large for the Sabres, who saw their season end on a losing note.

Sheffield Sabres 46 – 8 Sheffield Hallam Warriors

Having successfully avoided qualification for the national playoffs in order to focus on the Varsity match, the Sheffield Sabres were comfortable victors against the Hallam Warriors by a score of 46 – 8, scoring 7 touchdowns in the process.

Varsity 2005 was perhaps the most anticipated game of the Sabres season. This game could determine the outcome of the whole series, bringing the trophy back to its rightful home at the University of Sheffield. It was a game also for bragging rights. Sheffield’s football history saw the Sabres and the Warriors tied at three victories each. What better way then to determine the greatest team in Sheffield? Of course there were other statistics that spoke for themselves. The Sabres had gone zero and eight for the season. Hallam had made it to the playoffs.

Varsity 2005; a David and Goliath story, truer than the Bible itself.

Records aside, it was the Sabres that started stronger. Receiving the kick off, the opening drive immediately established the running game, as RB Ben Palin tore up the middle thanks to some fine O-Line work. QB Jonathan Weller hit WR Matt Harding for a first down on the following play. Despite the penalty, it was clear that OC Matt Court had eradicated a lot of the nonsense and silliness that has affected some previous Sabres coaches, and was the epitome of a restrained coach – a marked contrast to certain others also present. And it came to pass that the Sabres found themselves a score up within five minutes, as Debutant RB James Lapworth charged in the TD run from eight yards. The Sabres D ensured that this was the only score of the quarter, starting LBs Hunting, Arran, Edordu, Oxley and Smith stopped the running game as the Warriors struggled and were forced to punt.

The start of the second period saw the Sabres double their lead. Ben Palin scored on another awesome ground attack, as the side lines began to think that maybe, just maybe, the unachievable was about to unfold. The Hallam Warriors showed resilience as they bounced back with a score of their own, RB Lambert somehow broke through Coach Treen’s stern defence, to grab a 40-yard TD run. The two PAT was run in and at 12 points to 8, the teams knew they were in a game and the crowd sensed that they were in for a thriller.

As the period wore on, the Sabres kept their lead as the Warriors O struggled to make their only first down of the half. Tight coverage from the secondary forced the Warriors to work on their running game but the roving LB team allowed no yards on the ground, as Linemen Mellor, Garcia-Garcia and Bones continued to hammer the O Line into submission.

Perhaps the Sabres began to know it was their day when Veteran Centre and Club President Ben Griffiths made a reception. The pass came over from QB Jonathan Weller and WR Matt Harding cleverly pushed the football firstly into the shoulder of Rookie WR Phil Hindes, who knocked it back against a Hallam Defender’s chest, knowing that the ever-reliable man Griffiths would be there to make the catch and surprise the D by gaining an extra few yards (skill players everywhere held their breath, but secretly all had faith in his ability to first catch and then hold the football), but the excitement did not end there.

Court’s offense dealt a devastating blow right at the end of the half. QB Weller found Phil Hindes out of the tight-end position, one of a series of very complex formations that were called as the Warriors found themselves using up their timeouts in an attempt to give themselves time to work out who was supposed to be standing where. A monster block from Lineman Harry Fellowes helped Hindes as he ran the extra 10 yards for the score. Half time came as the Sabres found themselves 18-8 up, and the confidence oozed from the side line.

The half time show saw the Warriors’ Cheerleading squad take to the field. It turned out this was merely to perform their dance routine, although the girls appeared to provide the obvious substitutes to replace the flailing Warriors defence.

The start of the second half brought with it another score, again to the Sabres. It was Weller again who was the catalyst; only this time he ran it in himself. Rolling out of the pocket, he darted into the corner for the Sabres’ fourth score, the stranded corner struggling to compete with his pace. The red zone jinx that seemed to have lingered over the O for so long had well and truly been blown away. This time, the two PAT was successful, as RB Tom ‘The Bus’ Onyeador powered his way through the middle. At 26-8, it was a three score game, and with both the O and D buzzing, that elusive victory was beginning to crawl towards the University of Sheffield.

Any fears of Hallam performing a comeback were kept well and truly under raps as the remainder of the quarter brought about a series of turnovers that perfectly displayed the defence’s domination over this Warriors O. The first was an interception, as CB Simon Vardy reeled in a diving catch. LB James Smith also grabbed a pick, and headed for the end zone, but was stopped short for a 35-yard return. Littered about the quarter was a series of fumble recoveries. LBs Edordu and Arran both dived on loose footballs, whilst Lineman Gavin Bones dived onto the Warriors QB (nearly breaking his back due to the sudden addition of weight) as the Hallam RBs continued to cough up the ball in submission. Lineman Eddy Mellor also picked up a fumble, helping to secure a dominant quarter for the Sabres D.

The start of the final quarter saw the Sabres hammer the final nails in the already buried coffin. LB Chidi Edordu powered through the line to get a solid block on the Hallam punter’s personal protector, the punt hitting the aforementioned Hallam player squarely in his back. LB Rob Oxley was the first to react, and finally manage to shepherd the ball into the end zone after much ado about nothing before diving on it to grab the special teams TD (England Rugby Union Fullback Iain Balshaw could take lessons from that man!) This time it was RB Gershom Kulaba’s turn to get in on the action, as he received an option toss from an apparently tackled QB Weller to reel in the two PAT and put the Sabres 26 points clear.

The fourth quarter though, belong to the Sabres O, who turned up the heat on the Warriors with some exhibition plays that truly astounded spectators and players alike. The first was a monster reverse that sent Ian Clarke 80 yards for the score, truly the touch of an “impact player”. Prior to the snap QB Weller and RB Burke were spotted talking to Clark, when asked after the game what he had been saying, Weller replied “All I asked was how far he thought he could go with one play – then I bet him he couldn’t take it all the way!” Hallam’s defence chased first RB Burke and then QB Weller only to find that Clarke eventually received the hand off and had disappeared up the field through a sea of defenders.

But the Sabres weren’t through yet. RBs Palin, Burke and Lapworth churned out the hard fought yardage on the ground, and the Sabres’ O line continued to shine in what can only have been their best game all year. Another reverse rounded up the scoring, this time it was Hindes. The brilliant tactic of doing the exact same play as last time, only going the other side, absolutely baffled the former Poly team (‘Coach Court must be some sort of genius!!’ The Telegraph). Hindes grabbed his second and the Sabres’ seventh in a play that ended the proceedings. Univeristy of Sheffield had won, and deservedly too.

Offensively every player on the pitch made a huge contribution, especially in the score, but a special mention must go to Terry Burke, who has shone in his ability to fail to trouble the scorers (a superbly consistent approach that has lasted all season). Despite the best efforts of everyone else on the team, he failed to take the ball to the end zone, although he was given soup by a Hallam Cheerleader at half-time, so at least that’s something!

The team went into rapture as Court was soaked with Gatorade, (actually high quality H20) and paid tribute to those Sabres heroes that are leaving next year. The news spread quickly to Bar One as Sky Sports informed fans at the bar of the victory. It’s a long post-season, but next year’s campaign is already hugely anticipated. Let the celebrations go on, and cry from the highest hilltop.

Match reports

Sheffield Sabres 22-14 Sheffield Hallam Warriors

Divisional rivalry saw Sheffield teams the Sabres and new boys the Warriors clash in League action. Sabres DT Eddy Mellor recovering a fumble on the Warriors two-yard line set up the first score of the game. Robert Levy ran the ball in and Jon Cuthbert scored the two PAT on a reception from QB Paul Musker.

After an exchange of punts, the Warriors scored their first league points with Chris Jones catching a 23-yard pass from QB Phil Wood. Gareth Pattinson’s reception for the two PAT tied the game. The half ended with the Sabres up 14-8 after Robert Levy hauled in a five-yard pass from Musker.

Neither team were able to break the deadlock until the fourth when Pattinson scored on an 11-yard reception to again tie the game with 6:51 left. The Sabres left it late to take the lead again, with 30 seconds left Musker connected with WR Will Abbott for an eight-yard score, and then David Leslie ran in the two PAT. The Warriors tried but after three long pass attempts a sack by DT Oscar Hugus on fourth down allowed the Sabres O to take a knee and finish the game.

Caledonian Roughriders 2-18 Sheffield Sabres

The Sabres moved to 2-0 with a win against league newcomers the Caledonian Roughriders. The Sabres forced a turnover from the first play from scrimmage when Roughriders QB Graham Porterfield was intercepted by DB Daniel Smyth. The Sabres quickly turned this into points with a 31-yard pass from QB Paul Musker to Ryan Spokas. The Sabres scored again when Musker broke free on a QB sneak to scamper away for a 35-yard TD run. The Sabres closed out the first half with a 14-yard TD run by Robert Levy.

The second half turned into a defensive stalemate and eventually lead to the Roughrider first ever BCAFL points when James McIntosh tackled the Sabres punter in his own end zone. Forced to go to the air, the game was sealed when Scott Davies picked off Porterfield, leaving the Sabres offence able to take a knee. The Roughriders started nervously in their first league game but settled to hold Sheffield out in the second half and with a good squad size look to have a promising future.

Sheffield Sabres 14-20 UCH Sharks

The Sheffield Sabres travelled to the UCH Sharks and played a see-saw match which saw four lead changes. The Sabres scored first when WR Ryan Spokas took a Paul Musker pass 60 yards for an early touchdown, Spokas also caught the two PAT.

Hull fought back with some strong rushing and scored early in the second quarter with a 12-yard run from Yacine Salmi. WR Richard Cochrane broke through the Sabres secondary on a five yard pass reception to put the Sharks up 12-8 at the half.

In the third quarter LB David Leslie stepped up and returned an interception 40 yards for the TD to swing the advantage back to Sheffield. In the fourth quarter and needing a score the Sharks mounted a long drive which culminated in a 10-yard TD catch from Mike Barrett, Jason Hague ran in the two PAT.

Sheffield Sabres 14-24 Leeds Celtics

The battle for South Yorkshire bragging rights was won by the Leeds Celtics after a hard fought match against the Sheffield Sabres. The Celtics started the scoring early when they capitalised on a fumbled punt return to set up a seven yard sweep for RB Jack Watkinson. The Sabres responded with an 85 yard drive which was capped of with a one yard QB sneak from Paul Musker. Ryan Spokas hauled in the two PAT on a pass from Musker. The Celtics re-took the lead before the half when Watkinson scored his second TD of the day on a 10-yard run.

On the opening drive of the second half the Sabres re-took the lead on 70 yard drive which culminated in a TD pass from Musker to Spokas. The advantage was tipped in favour of the Celtics when WR Chris Kuc caught a 10 yard pass from QB Alex Fisher. On a third and long Fisher threw a short screen pass to FB Joe Coultate, who broke several tackles on the way to a 17 yard score in the fourth.

UCH Sharks 12-18 Sheffield Sabres

This hotly contested grudge match produced another exciting game which saw the Sabres emerge victorious. After forcing the Sheffield offence into a three and out on their first drive, the Sharks Yacine Salmi took the ensuing punt 50 yards for a TD. The rest of the first half turned into a defensive battle.

The Sabres started brightly in the second half when QB Paul Musker threw 15-yard pass to RB David Leslie. Opting for an onside kick Eddie Mellor recovered the ball for the Sabres and set up a 20-yard strike from Musker to WR Ryan Spokas. After recovering a Sharks fumble, the Sabres marched downfield and Musker scored with his third TD pass this time going to RB Rob Levy.

After being shutdown for most of the second half Hull managed to gain momentum in the fourth quarter on a drive which was capped off by a three yard run from RB Markus Mueller with only a minute remaining. With mist rolling in from the peaks, the Sharks were forced to attempt the onside kick, Eddie Mellor rose to the occasion to make his second recovery giving possession and victory to the Sheffield Sabres.

Sheffield Sabres 26-50 UT Cougars

The Strong Winds that were sweeping the country did nothing to dampen the high scoring match between the Sabres and Cougars. The Sabres opened the scoring first when QB Paul Musker ran in from 20 yards out behind some strong O-Line blocking. The Cougars responded immediately when they drove the length of the field for QB Pete Rogers to sneak in from one yard out. The Cougars soon took the lead when Cheyne McDonald swept into the corner of the end zone from 20 yards out.

McDonald added to the Cougars early in the second quarter when he caught an 87 yard bomb from Rogers, the two PAT was run in by FB Rich Marshall. Forcing the Sabres to punt McDonald broke through the coverage only to have the ball stripped by C Ben Griffiths at the goal line, however it was ruled that the ball had already crossed the line, the two PAT was run in by Rogers. McDonald was on the score sheet again when this time he hauled in a 64 yard TD.

Needing a response the Sabres went to the air and Musker found an opening QR Ryan Spokas took the pass in for the TD, RB Rob Levy added the two PAT. The Cougars defence stepped in the third quarter and LB Dave Fillingham picked off a Musker pass and returned it 15 yards for the score. WR Ben McQueeny caught the two PAT from Rogers. Musker and Spokas hooked up twice for two quick TDs. However the last word would go to the Cougars when Cheyne McDonald ran in from 10 yards out, to seal a five TD day and a good win for the Cougars.

Leicester Lightning 0-46 Sheffield Sabres

The Leicester Lightning opened this game with some strong running by QB Scott Summers but were forced to punt, the Sabres then took their first possession, 65 yards in seven plays for the opening points which came on a Paul Musker pass to Robert Levy. WR Nick East caught the two PAT.

In the second quarter, Levy added to Sheffield’s lead when he took an option pass in from 20 yards, WR Ryan Spokas added the two PAT. Levy then took another option pass in from 25 yards out and Spokas again hauled in the two PAT. As the half neared an end, Musker found Spokas open in the corner of the end zone for a 15 yard TD. Sabres CB James Lomas picked off Summers which set up Levy for his fourth TD which came on a 30 yard scamper. TE Chris Hughes grabbed the two PAT.

Sabres CB Scott Davies then picked off another Summers pass giving the Sabres good field position. TE Chris Hughes set up the games final points with a 30 yard reception. QB Paul Musker then sneaked in from one yard out and Levy was on hand to catch the two PAT.

Sheffield Sabres 16-14 Sheffield Hallam Warriors

Thick Snowfall greeted the teams at the kick off for the second battle for Sheffield bragging rights. The Sabres started quickly when on the first play from scrimmage QB Paul Musker went long and hooked up with WR Ryan Spokas for a 40yd TD. RB Rob Levy ploughed into the end zone to add the two PAT.

Not to be outdone, the Warriors took the ensuing kick off and marched downfield on a long drive which was capped off with a 15 yard run from RB Sean Heywood. FB Tom Shearn ran in the two PAT to tie the scores. With the heavy winds making passing difficult the Sabres used their ground game to good effect and Levy was able to set up a first and goal at the Warriors two yard line.

After a fumble in the back field the Sabres seemed to have lost their good field position, however OT Andrew Rose recovered the ball and advanced the ball to the Warriors 1, from here Musker was able to sneak the ball into the end zone. Levy was on hand again to score the two PAT. After and exchange of punts the Warriors got good field position and were able to close the gap when Ric Hennessy through a 14 yard strike to WR Sean Rodgers. The two PAT was stopped short by Noel Garcia and Eddy Mellor which meant, after a scoreless second half, the Sabres emerged victorious.

Match reports

Sheffield Sabres 0-20 Warwick Wolves (Friendly)

This pre-season friendly was dubbed as the “Eyles-Monteith Memorial Bowl”. A close encounter was expected, two early turnovers saw two early touchdowns for the Wolves. As this was a friendly, the Sabres rotate their players in and out to ensure everyone got game time, as a result the Sabres never settled into a rhythm.

Sheffield’s match at Warwick didn’t manage to escape the rain that has been battering most of the country over the weekend. This made ball handling difficult and on the Sabres’ first possession and dropped right pitch saw Warwick Corner James Michael pick up the ball in the end zone for the games opening touchdown. Wolves receiver Findley Umbrella caught the two point conversion.

The Sabres’ offence came back onto the field and began a promising drive which ended prematurely when Sheffield quarterback Paul Musker was picked off when looking deep. Despite some outstanding play from the Sheffield defence, the Wolves had too short a field to be stopped and they made the score 14-0 when tail back Peregrine Carter ran in the ball from 12 yards out on a sweep right.

Sheffield’s next drive saw them move the ball 70 yards, including an amazing 30 yard catch under incredible pressure by receiver Nick East. The drive came up short when a 25 yard field goal by Will Abbot was kicked wide left.

The Sheffield defence dominated the rest of the first half, stopping the Wolves from gaining any momentum. A fumble recovered by Defensive Tackle Matthew Court was returned to the five yard line but the Sabres were unable to put the ball in the end zone. The halftime score was 14-0.

The Sabres offence came out at half time but failed to gain any momentum due to the rotation system which enable all Sabres to take part in the game. A further Wolves score was added when corner James Kingston got underneath a high bomb from Sabres Quarterback Jonathon Weller.

Leeds Celtics 18-0 Sheffield Sabres

With winds gusting up to gale-force and torrential rain, this game was not the best conditions to start a season. Leeds send out a message to the whole of BCAFL showing that they would go on to bounce back from an 0-8 record in the previous game to finish this campaign 8-0. The Sabres offence was still trying to rebuild, they were not strong enough to overcome Leeds.

High winds and sweeping rain were the order of the day, as Leeds Celtics travelled to Sheffield Sabres on the opening weekend of the BCAFL 2002/2003. Sabre Field of Norton however stood up to the onslaught; its unique drainage facilities allowing for the use of pads and cleats, rather than the much anticipated pedalos.

The passing game was largely non-existent in the first half, aside from HB Screens which provided good early field position for Leeds. Stalwart defending however by the Sheffield defence kept the Leeds offence from scoring early, so it was up to the Leeds defence to put the first points on the board. Unable to punt due to high winds, Sheffield found themselves at fourth and long deep into their own territory. This allowed Leeds’ Dan Delvechio to break through the Sheffield line, forcing a tackle in the end zone and racking up a two point lead in the first quarter. With Sheffield disheartened, this lead to a quick returning drive by Leeds, and a touchdown run by FB Dan Prewitt through the heart of the defence.

Despite good running by Sheffield RB Dave Leslie, whose speed and strength allowed for a variety of plays, Sheffield found it difficult to triumph over the conditions, and their much anticipated passing game did not really surface in the first half. A further Leeds score and two point conversion (both run-in by QB Tom Lockard) left Sheffield trailing 16-0 at half-time.

Loss of key players due to injury, Sheffield returned in the second half as a changed but resilient side. A marginal drop in the ferocity of the wind allowed for Sheffield QB Paul Musker to show off his arm, notably with a long completion to WR Tom Beaumont. Sheffield’s defence looked stronger than ever, sealing up the outside and tackling with vigour, with good penetration from the defensive line breaking up plays in the Leeds backfield. However, Sheffield were unable to notch up the points, and Leeds sealed the game in the fourth quarter, with a safety by DT Rob Taylor. Week one over, and the first round of the Yorkshire Bragging Rights goes to Leeds, with an 18-0 victory over a valiant Sheffield Sabres.

Lancaster Bombers 12-6 Sheffield Sabres

A match of two halves, the first half saw Sheffield's offence move the ball with confidence and capped off the half with a long run from debutant Jonanthan Weller. In stark contrast the second half was an error strewn performance by the offence with three interceptions and a lost fumble.

Lancaster’s trip to Sabre Field was blessed with little wind or rain, and even brief appearances by the sun; a rare occurrence in the Peak District this late in the year. Such good conditions on a pitch which had stood up well to recent storms and rain set up an exciting game, with both offences using a varied playbook to test the opposition defences to the extreme.

Sheffield’s defence stood firmest of the two, and a forced fumble at around mid-field set up a good Sheffield drive, culminating in a field goal attempt, blocked at the 18 yard line. The game remained scoreless, with both defences dominating the field until late in the second quarter when a perfectly executed sweep put Sheffield RB Jonathan Weller beyond the despairing Linebackers grasp. Even with two safeties in the backfield, Lancaster were unable to compete with his speed and agility, and the 40 yard touchdown run gave Sheffield its first points in the BCAFL 2002/2003 season. The extra point attempt was missed, following good pressure from the Lancaster defensive line. Tough defence kept the score at 6-0 in Sheffield’s favour until half time.

High spirits throughout the half-time talk was possibly responsible for allowing the Bomber’s to blast back into the game. Despite a deep kick-off by Sheffield’s Will Abbott, the Lancaster KR Bob Stanges picked through the marauding Sabres and returned the kick, untouched, into the Sheffield end zone. Sheffield’s defence stood firm to the two point conversion attempt, and blocked the middle run inches short of the end zone. The score stood at 6-6 just moments into the second half.

The game shortly turned into a defensive battle, with excellent performances by Sheffield DT Steve Parry and LB Chidi Edordu, who’s tackling and forced fumbles helped inspire the Sheffield defence to a shut out for the game. Even an interception by the Sheffield FS (and FB!) Tom Whiting in good field position could not help the Sabres regain the lead. It was left to good D-Line pressure by Lancaster, and awareness by DE Andrew Doran to pick off the wayward pass and return it for Lancaster’s second touchdown of the game. The two point conversion attempt failed, as a sweep to the outside was easily read and dealt with by the Sheffield Linebackers.

This however left Sheffield six points down, with time running out in the fourth quarter. To make matters worse, the battle was taking its toll on players from both sides; the medics’ skateboard-like trolley in frequent use, leaving Sheffield with a much depleted squad. Even Sheffield could not overcome these odds, and a final interception by Lancaster on a long pass by Sheffield meant that the Bombers could take a knee and run out the clock.

Sheffield Sabres 12-30 UT Cougars

A tough game saw the Sabres overpowered by the Teeside Cougars. An injury to Mat Court saw the Sabres defence lose concentration and let in three quick scores. The Sabres passing game spluttered into attack with its first and only airborne touchdown of the regular season. The unusual luxury of sunshine greeted Sheffield’s visit to Teesside. An early lapse in concentration lead to Teesside returning the opining kick off to Sheffield’s two yard line. Despite a valiant goal line stand by the Sabres, Teesside finally punched the ball into the end zone when with Ben McQueeny. The ensuing two point conversion failed.

After Sheffield were forced to punt on the next possession, Teesside looked to build on their lead. However a fumbled handoff in the backfield lead to Sheffield Linebacker Adam Sawyer returning the football for a 20 yard touchdown to level the scores. Teesside were quick to respond when defensive tackle, Rich Marshall, sacked the Sheffield Quarterback in the end zone for a safety.

As the first quarter neared an end, Teesside Quarterback Pete Rogers found a wide-open Gaz Eastwood for a 47-yard touchdown pass. Rich Marshall ran in the two-point conversion.

The second quarter began on a low note as the Sabres lost Star defensive Tackle Matt Court to injury. The delay in the game lead to another lapse in Sheffield’s concentration as Gaz Eastwood beat Sheffield’s secondary to haul in a 19 yard catch for his second touchdown of the day.

On the way to the red zone Wide Receiver Nick East made several catches when he gained blimp like airtime showing that this could be the start of a good year for the Sabres. However Teesside’s defence stood firm. Closing out the first half as a one yard sneak by Pete Rogers and a Ben McQueeney Conversion to put the half time score to 30-6.

After halftime, Sheffield came out fired up, forcing Teesside to go three and out on almost every series. Going in to the fourth quarter the game looked to be simply a case of running down the clock, however Sheffield Safety Ian Briggs had other ideas, picking off Teesside’s Long Bomb and returning the ball 40 yards to the halfway line. Sheffield offence set up a good drive moving the ball to the Teesside 30 yard line, with powerful runs from half back Jonathon Weller.

A quick pass by Sheffield quarterback Paul Musker looked good for a first down. However wide receiver Will Abbott clearly had other ideas as he bounced of Teesside’s linebackers and outpaced the secondary to run the play in for a touchdown, to put the final score 30-12 in Teesside’s favour.

Sheffield Sabres 0-14 Lancaster Bombers

The Bombers defence produced a strong showing which resulted in a complete reverse of the previous season’s scoreline. Sunday 24 November heralded the season’s second meeting between conference rivals Sheffield Sabres and Lancaster Bombers. Lancaster had travelled to Sheffield in week two, and returned with a 12-6 victory, giving them the psychological edge in this week five match-up as Sheffield made the trip north. The game promised to be an exciting one; with the Sabres offence lining up in a three receiver set, but the Bomber’s living up to their name using a four receiver set as a target for the quarterback.

Neither offence could find its feet in the first half though, with a heavy blitzing Lancaster Defence rushing Sheffield QB Paul Musker, and aggressive tackling by Sheffield debutant DT Oscar Salas and second year Sabres LB Chidi Edordu broke down Lancaster’s running game forcing them to the air. Here Sheffield looked reasonably comfortable, with the Sheffield defensive backfield looking more than a match for any passing game.

However Lancaster fought on, and an impressive drive late in the second quarter put them in excellent scoring position, with a first down on the four yard line. Setting up in their preferred tricycle (trips) formation, with three receivers to the right, the QB rolled right to find an open receiver just inside the end zone. He made no mistake this time, and with no Sheffield DB nearby to break up the play the touchdown was scored. The two-point conversion attempt was successful, with a half-back dive just breaking the plane for a score.

Sheffield hit back immediately, with a determined offensive drive culminating in a swing pass to FB Tom Whiting which he broke into a huge gain by evading Lancaster’s linebackers. It was in fact just the slick Astroturf surface which brought him down; a slip whilst sidestepping the Bomber’s safeties ended the play and the half, with Sheffield trailing 8-0.

The second half went in much the same way as the first, with both teams being forced to punt by seemingly tireless defences. This immense pressure was getting to the offences and mistakes were beginning to be made. Sheffield’s defence were forcing fumbles with huge hits on running plays, with the alertness to recover the ball, and the swiftness of the defensive backs were breaking up the passing plays with numerous bat-downs and interceptions.

It was however the Bomber’s who struck the hardest blow, and as fate would have it, it was against the same play which had given Sheffield so much hope at the end of the first half. Pressure on the Sabres QB forced a slightly wayward swing pass to the full-back which was easily read and picked off by a Lancaster LB, and run back 30 yards, untouched, for the score. Sheffield were down 14-0, and despite spirited play in the fourth quarter, 14-0 is how the score remained.

Sheffield Sabres 6-6 Hull Sharks

With the Sabres struggling on offence, the defence stepped up and only an unfortunate interception stopped the Sabres from taking the win. For the third consecutive season, the Sheffield Sabres travelled to Hull to battle it out in what has fast become the most hotly contested grudge match in the North-Eastern division.

With Hull’s success in their previous season, it was clear their ‘old-school’ style of play would be on show; running the ball with three or often four tight ends and attempting to power up the middle of the pitch, tiring defences with a succession of short yardage gains. However, old-school football is not easy to play without old-school players, and the lack of leather helmets, penny-farthings, and handlebar moustaches proved fatal as Hull offence relentlessly failed to move the ball.

Sheffield however were playing with nothing to lose, and the inspired change of position for Tom Whiting from free safety to running back allowed Sheffield’s offence to tear up the field, being held only by numerous courageous stands by the Hull defence. It took until the second quarter for Sheffield to put up some points, when a perfectly executed screen pass to Whiting allowed him to crunch the ball into the corner of the end-zone for a touchdown. The extra-point attempt was blocked, as the Hull defence refused to lose heart, and the score remained 6-0 at half time.

The game turned into one of defensive domination in the second half, as conditions underfoot worsened. Good line pressure from the Sabres’ defence gave Hull no opportunities to drive forwards, with DT Oscar Salas and DT Eddy Mellor picking up MVP’s for their efforts. Only excellent punting and pressure from Hull’s gunners would improve field position enough so, such that Sheffield’s offence were struggling to string together enough first downs to drive the length of the pitch. It was after one such punt that Sheffield found themselves with the ball on their own four yard line, going into the final quarter.

Passing under good Sharks pressure allowed Hull’s LB Pekka Ketonen to step up and beat the Sheffield receivers to the ball, running it in untouched for a 10 yard interception return, and levelling the score. Hull’s offence came out looking for the two point conversion to take the lead, but the Sabres’ defence again thwarted their opposition with CB Daniel Eyles reading the option play and making the vital tackle at the two yard line. Strong final drives from both offences were not enough to put points on the board, and at 6 a-piece the game went to overtime.

With Sheffield losing the coin toss, Hull elected to receive, but were undone when Sheffield’s special teams captain Will Arran annihilated the kick returner forcing the ball loose, and Sheffield’s Mark Price dived on the fumble. Despite excellent field position, and a determined effort by the Sabres’ offence, Hull again stood firm and thus overtime continued in much the same way as the previous hours play. Arran again came up trumps on Sheffield’s special teams, forcing a fumble on a punt return, this time recovered by Sheffield’s Jake Treen.

With just ninety seconds remaining in overtime, Sabres took up the ball and began the final drive of the match. QB Paul Musker found his form, and two plays into the drive found WR Nick East on an out pattern, who turned upfield for a 40 yard gain. The touchdown saving tackle came inside the Hull 10 yard line, giving Sheffield one last chance to claim their first BCAFL victory 0f 2002/2003. Electing to pass, Musker hit WR Rafeal Escalante for a diving catch, which after much debating by the referees was ruled to be just inches short of the end-zone. With the pass completed, overtime expired, and both teams breathed a sigh of relief and regret at having neither lost nor won such a gruelling encounter. The result: A tie after overtime.

Sheffield Hallam Warriors 0-2 Sheffield Sabres

The Sheffield Hallam Warriors made the short trip up the road to play city rivals the Sheffield Sabres. The Sabres, a struggling team, and the Warriors a rookie team only managed to produce a 2-0 scoreline in the favour of the Sabres. After completing their 2002 regular season games the Sabres had just one more battle before they could go into their Christmas break. This game would be the cross city derby against Sheffield Hallam Warriors.

The Warriors, playing their first ever game, were clearly not overawed by the task ahead of them as they forced the Sabres to go three and out throughout the first quarter. Sheffield began the second quarter off to a good start by moving the ball to the Warriors three yard line. Kicker Will Abbott hooked the ball wide left on the attempted field goal.

Late in the second quarter the Sabres again moved the ball to the Warriors red zone when wide receiver Jon Cuthbert was tackled short of the first down on an attempted fourth down conversion the chance to score looked as if it had disappeared. However the Sabres’ defence clearly had other ideas. A high shotgun snap forced the Warriors running back to pick up the football, great pressure by the Sabres’ D-Line forced the runner to step out of bounds from the back of the end zone giving the first points of the day to the Sabres.

The third quarter began in dramatic style. Strong pressure from defensive tackle Steven Parry forced the Warriors QB to throw an interception to third year cornerback and club captain Dan Eyles. After some brilliant blocking by Free Safety Tom Whiting, Eyles ran the ball back for 35 yards only to be stopped short by an ankle tap from the Warriors offence.

With the game nearing an end, the Sabres marched relentlessly downfield only to be stopped short on another fourth down conversion. This gave the warriors one last chance to dive downfield and score a game winner. However the Sabres defence stood firm and forced the Warriors into a four and out. Leaving Sheffield QB to take a knee and seal the victory.

UT Cougars 14-2 Sheffield Sabres

Sheffield returned from the Christmas break and with the help of a Mellor safety lead up until the fourth quarter. UT Cougars travelled to Sheffield, hoping to repeat their early season victory and further their playoff chances, whilst Sheffield were still searching for the first victory. What Teesside found was a determined Sheffield side, whose first half passing game forced the Cougar’s defence into retreat. Unable to force the ball into the end zone however, Teesside’s offence would be given a chance to drive back into Sheffield territory. With the defences both standing firm, the only score of the half was a first quarter Safety, with Sabres’ DT Eddy Mellor bursting through the line of scrimmage like a tram, making the tackle on Teesside’s punter as he attempted to scramble out of the end zone.

Teesside returned from the half time break resolute on both sides of the football. Despite having no completed passes throughout the game, their running backs consistently picked up the short yardages required to convert to first downs, and a tiring Sheffield defence were gradually picked apart. It was in the fourth quarter that the break for Teesside finally came, with Rich Marshall and Ben McQueeny successful on red-zone offence, running in two Touchdowns to put the game beyond Sheffield’s reach. A two-point conversion was added by Teesside QB Pete Rogers, leaving the final score Teesside 14 – Sheffield 2.

Sheffield Sabres 6-43 Loughborough Aces

A strong second half from the previous seasons Northern Conference winners, gave Loughborough the win. In a day that started well for the Loughborough Aces, and got gradually poorer and poorer for the Sheffield Sabres, spectators were to witness a resounding 43 to 6 victory for the home side.

Both teams came out passing well in the first half, with several long completions from Sheffield QB #7 Paul Musker to wideout #27 Jon Cuthbert, but Loughborough were to cap off their passing with strong running from tail-back Mattar M’Boge, for whom Sheffield’s defence in a rather unusual state of affairs could not find an answer. Two rushing touchdowns for M’boge in the first half brought the two sides into half time with Loughborough comfortably ahead 12-0.

Hope was brought back to the Sheffield Sabres at the beginning of the second half, with the kick-off team’s pursuit of the ball forcing a fumble, picked up by Sheffield’s #28 Jake Treen and run in 30 yards for the touchdown. The play cost the Sabres perhaps more than the six points they had gained, losing two key defensive players to injury; the tackler #38 Tom Whiting and the scorer #28 Jake Treen, brought down as he crossed into the end zone.

With weaknesses in these key defensive positions, Loughborough found good space to attack Sheffield with a steady mix of pass and run plays, and before the third quarter was out Loughborough had picked up three more touchdowns, taking the lead 30-6. There seemed nothing Sheffield’s defence could do to hold up the onslaught from the Aces, despite numerous tackles and sacks from Sheffield’s MVP #69 Eddy Mellor, and Loughborough were to run up the score to 43-6 by the end of the game. Only the Sabres special teams had seemed successful against a strong Aces side, with one touchdown from kick-off, one field goal blocked and six out of seven PATs charged down.

Stirling Clansmen 32-0 Sheffield Sabres

The much depleted Sabres were only able to field 12 men for the season ending game and after injury dropped the Sabres to a ironman 11, the result seemed inevitable. The Sabres managed to keep the eventual National Champions to only 10 points in the first three quarters, until a fourth quarter onslaught from the National Champions.

Stirling Clansmen made the long haul down to Sheffield, determined to chalk up a victory to guarantee home field advantage in the playoffs. For the Sheffield Sabres, the game marked the final match up of the 2002/2003 BCAFL campaign, and possibly the final Sabres game for several of Sheffield’s more aged players. The much depleted Sheffield squad were not to be overawed with the challenge that faced them, and came out hard in the first quarter.

The aggressive Sabres defensive line, led by the games leading tackler DT #69 Eddy Mellor, and backed up by other stars such as #79 Ben Griffiths, #58 Steve Parry, and rookie lineman #56 Mat McDonagh, forced the Clansmen to turn the ball over on almost every possession, as they were unable to gain yardage against the fired-up Sheffield squad. The Sabres’ offence showed promise too, with good yardage through the air from QB #7 Paul Musker to WR #27 Jon Cuthbert, and hard fought yardage on the ground from Sheffield’s new monster RB #19 Adam Sawyer. However, Stirling’s defence proved too resilient, and the first quarter remained scoreless.

Playing downhill in the second quarter, Stirling were able to make good use of their dominant size, and began to break through the Sheffield front line. Were it not for excellent pursuit from linebackers #51 Chidi Edordu and #28 Jake Treen, the score line may have been quite different by half time. As it happened, the first score followed from a Sheffield defensive stand inside their own red zone, and from an inch perfect punt by Stirling’s #2 Gary McNey, pinning the Sheffield offence inside their own five yard line. An attempted swing pass right by the Sabres fell incomplete, but was deemed to have travelled laterally, and after much confusion Sheffield’s RB was tackled inside the end zone.

Stirling took the lead 2-0, and as their spirit grew, so did the power of their runners. Picking up five or six yard gains with every rush they attempted on their next drive put them quickly at the Sheffield two yard line, and from that distance even against Sheffield’s tough goal-line defence, Stirling were not to be stopped. It was Gary McNey, lined up as an H-Back, who eventually punched the ball through to the end zone, and Carlos Rocca who picked up the two point conversion. Sheffield went in at half time, losing 10-0, but a long way from being defeated.

The third quarter showed resilience from both sides, as the defences were to hold firm against strong offensive drives. Injury to Sheffield’s international WR #81 Raphael Quintinella Escobar put DB / LB #26 Daniel Eyles as the Sabres primary receiver, who made two catches despite serious hand injury in an effort to fight back against the Scottish invaders. Sheffield defensive backfield again proved its might, with DB #33 Chris Doneghan and QB turn Safety #7 Paul Musker helping to sweep up any mistakes and keep the quarter scoreless.

So the teams moved into the fourth at a score of ten to zero, but it was here that a breaking point was to be reached. Three touchdowns in this one quarter against a tiring Sheffield squad was the onslaught that Stirling had travelled down to give, and they started the scoring in style. A play-action fake inside the Sheffield red zone threw the Sabres line backers off the scent, and left the Clansmen’s Gary McNey wide open at the edge of the end zone to make the simple catch for the six points. Andreas Sommerseth made no mistake from short yardage to add the two point conversion, and the Sabres stepped forwards once again to receive a kick-off at eighteen points down.

The next drive was a frustrating one for Sheffield. Good yardage gains went to waste as McNey, now playing at Strong Safety for Stirling, made an excellent read on a slant pass, and plucked the ball away from the Sheffield receiver’s hands. Heading for the corner of the end zone, he powered into a crushing tackle but was able to clip the pylon with the ball, signifying a touchdown – McNey’s second of the game. Realising that Stirling’s DB’s were getting greedy, Sheffield QB #7 Musker made use of the pump fake to leave receivers wide open play after play in Stirling’s backfield.

However, the defensive backs were rescued on more than one occasion by a destructive Stirling defensive line, who would pressure the Sheffield quarterback with deflected passes and numerous tackles. Eventually, it was left to Stirling to finish the game with one more score, this time a receiving touchdown to WR James Thompson, with the two point conversion added again by Andreas Sommerseth, who ran through a hole so wide he could have scored whilst pulling a rickshaw.

Stirling left Sheffield with a resounding victory, moving into the playoffs with a score line of 32-0. However, they could not leave with the spirit and sheer guile of the 12 man Sabres team, who finished the season with their heads held high.

Sheffield Sabres 20-0 Sheffield Hallam Warriors

After a fruitless regular season the Sabres recovered and won and helped Sheffield University win the overall Varsity series. The Sheffield Hallam Warriors won the toss and elected to receive. The Warriors immediately showed that they were up for the game when their running attack gained a couple of first downs, until the Sabres’ defence forced a punt. An excellent punt put the Sabres within their own 10 yard line, and a fired up Warriors defence forced the Sabres into a three and out. However a roughing the kicker penalty gave the Sabres a fresh set of downs, and this time they managed to move the ball, through their running game, up to the Warriors 20 yard line, however another valiant stand by the Warriors defence forced Sheffield into a four and out.

The first half continued in this fashion until an injury to Sabres Guard Johnny lead to a long delay. The first half finished with the Warriors driving and being stopped as time ran out on fourth down.

The second half saw the Sabres receive the ball, from the kickoff, and immediately used their renowned passing game with wide out Nick East hauling in several quick passes. However when a bootleg by Sabres QB Paul Musker was stopped short the Warriors got the ball back from the ensuing punt. The Sheffield defence stood firm with first a deflected pass, a superb backfield tackle (by NT Oscar Salas) and then a forced fumble recovered by LB Jake Treen.

This time the Sabres offence weren’t to be denied. The first play on the drive, a sweep right by running back Dave Leslie went for only a one yard gain. However, on the next play, a sweep left, Dave went on a 55 yard scamper behind excellent lead blocking from FB Jonathan Weller and WR Will Abbot. This big play fired up the Sabres on the pitch and the fans on the side line. QB Paul Musker, seeing that the Warriors secondary was stepping up for the run, opted for the pass a 10 yard completion to Will Abbot was good for the first down, giving the Sabres first and goal with inches to go. A quick pass to WR Jon Cuthbert fell short and then a QB sneak which seemed to have broken the plane was called for no-gain. On third and goal a quick pitch caught the Warriors linebackers off guard and let Dave Leslie in for the first score of the game.

For the extra point the Sabres sent in their field goal unit. Holder Jonathan Weller took the long snap and instead of placing the ball for the kick dropped back to pass and found kicker Will Abbot wide open in the end zone, leaving the score at 8-0 going into the fourth quarter.

The Warriors responded by opening up their passing game with several short completions to former Sabres coach Mark Squire. The Uni defence picked up that Squire was the Warriors QB go-to guy and soon put double coverage on him. The next passing play saw this double coverage work perfectly as Strong Safety Ian Briggs picked off the pass and used his pace to race to the corner of the end zone. The ensuing two point conversion fell short.

After the kick off the Warriors QB decided to run the option however Sabres star line backer Chidi Edordu read the play and laid a hit that made many players and spectators wince, propelling the runner into his own crowded side line. This seemed to force the Warriors to the inside using many FB dives up the middle. While moving the ball, Hallam also ate up valuable playing time. When the Uni recovered the ball from the punt there was little over four minutes left. The Sabres reverted to their running game to eat up more time. With 1:26 left in the game the Warriors had used all their timeouts and the Sabres, on third down, needed only one yard to be able to take a knee. A quick pitch left to RB Dave Leslie was good for the first, Dave however had other ideas using his pace to get to the corner, and then his strength to knock over the covering Warriors cornerback, he was able to run the ball in for his second touchdown of the day. The two point conversion failed.

The Warriors, knowing they had to move the ball a distance and fast sent out five receivers. An underthrown pass from the Warriors QB was picked off by FS Tom Whiting. With only 26 seconds left on the clock the Sabres took a knee and sealed victory 20 – 0.

The win also gave Sheffield University the winning point to bring the varsity trophy back to Western Bank. After three successive years of Hallam victories, the University won this year’s competition by a single point.

Match reports

UT Cougars 51-12 Sheffield Sabres

Coming into the game the Cougars were strong favourites and showed why, overwhelming the inexperienced Sheffield side in all facets of the game. The Cougars, however, were surprised at Sheffield’s ability to pass against their defence, catching a glimpse of things to come for future Sabres opponents. The Sabres kicked off their 2001 season at home, hosting last year’s Northern Conference runners up, Teesside. The Cougars started well, forcing the Sabres to punt on their first possession, and scoring on their first drive with Richard Marshall’s rumbling 30 yard run. the PAT made it 7-0.

The Sabres came back strong as QB Damian Marshall hooked up with his receivers to drive downfield. The drive saw Will Davis catch three passes, including a three yard touchdown. The PAT was blocked and the score was 7-6.

From there, the Cougars running game took control of the game, punishing tacklers and helping Teesside to a 30-6 halftime lead. The Sabres opened the third quarter with a strong drive, culminating in a 20 yard pass from Marshall to Mark Squire, who made a diving catch in the corner of the end zone. Although Sheffield continued to move the ball throughout the game, they couldn’t find the end zone regularly enough to keep up.

The Cougars stayed with their strong running game and wound up as winners, 51-12, in a game which could easily have a had a much tighter score line. Encouraging signs from the Sabres that this year they could pull off some surprises.

Strathclyde Hawks 16-20 Sheffield Sabres

Coming off a big opening day win against divisional rivals Stirling, the Hawks made the long journey south to Sheffield hoping to extend their winning start. The Sabres had other ideas as Strathclyde QB Gary McNey was contained by the defence and the Sabres passing once again was the talk of the town.

Strathclyde’s long journey to Sheffield seemed to have no effect on the visitors as they drove down to the Sabres’ goal-line on their opening drive. Sheffield’s defence played big on the goal-line and stopped the Hawks on fourth down. After the turnover, a fumble by the Sabres gave the ball right back to Strathclyde who made no mistakes this time, opening the scoring with a two yard run by Simon Shankie.

The Sabres came back in the second quarter as QB Damian Marshall hit wide receiver Simon Gibson in stride for a 24 yard touchdown. When the Hawks got the ball back and eventually fumbled it, allowing SS Jake Treen to return it 35 yards for the score. The two-point conversion failed, leaving the Sabres up 12-8. Strathclyde, however, fought back, scoring again before half time and converting for two to take a 16-12 lead into the break.

Sheffield regained the lead in the third quarter as Marshall found WR Mark Squire, who turned the ball upfield to score a 14 yard touchdown. The conversion again went to Squire to make it 20-16 to the Sabres. Both defences held out in the fourth and in the last two minutes, Sheffield controlled the ball to win their first of the season against a much fancied Strathclyde team.

Leeds Celtics 8-18 Sheffield Sabres

The rivalry between the two Yorkshire cities of Leeds and Sheffield was brought onto the gridiron in the first divisional match up between these two teams. The Celtics gave Sheffield an early scare but three TD passes in the second quarter and strong defence in the second half sealed the win.

Three touchdowns in the second quarter was enough for Sheffield as they came back from 8-0 down to secure victory by 18 points to 8. A slow start by Sheffield’s defence allowed Leeds to drive into the Sabres’ red zone on their first drive. After being stopped on fourth down the Sabres took over the ball but went three-and-out on their first possession, forcing a punt. When the punter kneeled as he caught the ball a safety was called and two points awarded to Leeds. The Celtics extended their lead when Hytham Hamad ran the ball into the corner of the Sheffield end zone to make it 8-0 to Leeds. The extra point kick was blocked.

In the second quarter the Sabres offense came to life. QB Damian Marshall (pictured) found wide receiver Simon Gibson across the middle of the field, who took the ball into the end zone for a 45 yard touchdown. The Sabres next possession saw Marshall again hit Gibson, this time to convert on third down. Gibson, however, had more than a first down in mind, eluding defenders to score a sensational 40 yard touchdown. A fumble by Leeds on the ensuing kick off gave the ball back to Sheffield with less than a minute remaining in the half.

The Sabres took to the skies once more as wide out Will Davis hauled in a 28 yard fourth down pass from Marshall to score in the back corner of the end zone. That score gave the Sabres a lead they would hold on to, as a scoreless second half resulted in a Sheffield win. Sabres wide receiver Simon Gibson finished the match with six catches for 125 yards and two TDs.

Sheffield Sabres 8-19 Hull Sharks

In this game a new rivalry was forged as the Sabres were frustratingly denied by the eventual North Eastern division winners, the Sharks. On a cold and windy day in Hull, both the Sharks’ and Sabres’ defences frustrated the opposition offensive units with clutch plays to stop drives. Sheffield’s opening drive brought them to the Hull red zone where they were unable to come away with any points. Hull’s tough running game and Sheffield’s slick passing attack both continued to move the ball but couldn’t score any points.

With the game at 0-0 in the fourth quarter, a controversial call by the referees gave Hull the ball at the Sabres’ 10 yard line, after it was judged that the ball hit a Sheffield player after being punted, allowing Hull to recover possession. Sheffield’s defence, having just stopped the Sharks, had to retake the field and were unable to stop them again, as RB Ollie Tiainen scored on an eight yard run. Mike Barrat added the extra point to take the score to 7-0. After Sheffield’s next drive failed, Hull increased their lead, as Ollie Tiainen scored his second TD of the day to make it 13-0. A fumble by the Sabres on the ensuing kickoff gave the Sharks the ball deep in Sheffield territory again, where Victor Choi ran the ball in from 20 yards out, giving Hull a 19-0 lead. With less than 2 minutes remaining, QB Damian Marshall led Sheffield on an 80 yard touchdown drive culminating in Simon Gibson’s three yard TD catch as time expired. Will Davis caught the two point conversion to give Sheffield some consolation points. Marshall ended up with 256 yards passing in the game but was frustrated at losing a game which could have gone either way.

Sheffield Sabres 14-0 Newcastle Mariners

With Sabres QB Damian Marshall playing with an injured throwing shoulder, the rest of the Sheffield squad stepped up to beat the Mariners and bring Sheffield to 3-1. Victory, however was not assured until late in the game.

On a cold day in Newcastle, Sheffield’s running game exploded with a big performance by Ben King. Despite his running, the Sabres had trouble in the red zone and failed to score until just before halftime. From the three yard line, King broke a tackle and managed to sprint into the corner for the go ahead score. Tough defence from both teams continued in the second half, as neither team could force their way to a score. In the last two minutes, Sheffield punter Mike Cowdy pinned Newcastle down on their two-yard line with a kick into the corner. From there, a high snap sailed out of the back of the endzone to give Sheffield two points. The ensuing free kick was returned 50 yards by Will Davis to seal the win for the Sabres. King finished the day with 127 yards rushing and 20 yards receiving.

Sheffield Sabres 7-20 Nottingham Outlaws

Sheffield were sloppy after the Christmas break and lost a game they should have won because of poor preparation. After this game their playoff spot seemed in jeopardy.

Both teams started slowly in their return to action after the Christmas break but it was Nottingham who managed to get on the board first as Eric Puleio scored from five yards out in the second quarter. The Outlaws defence held firm again as the Sabres failed to make any significant offensive gains on their next drive. With possession of the ball once more Nottingham consumed time on the clock and managed to extend their lead as Dan Gistri scored from three yards out to give a halftime score line of 12-0.

After the break Sheffield looked much more lively, as their defence stopped Nottingham and allowed the Sabres offense to take the field. A 70 yard drive which included three catches by WR Will Davis and a 15 yard run by half back Ben King was culminated by Simon Gibson’s eight yard reception from Damian Marshall. Nottingham came back, however, and Dan Gistri’s 20 yard catch from Mark Fisher, converted by Puleio’s two-point run, made it 20-7 to the Outlaws. Chasing the game late in the fourth quarter, Marshall was intercepted going deep by Roland Verhaaf, and Nottingham ran out the clock to seal the win.

Sheffield Sabres 14-0 Lancaster Bombers

A constant downpour in bleak Lancaster made this a game where the team who made the fewest mistakes would win. Sheffield were the team, as RB Ben King continued his string of good performances on astro-turf. In driving rain and strong wind at Lancaster, the Sheffield Sabres were able to grind out a win to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Sheffield started strongly, driving down to the Bombers eight yard line where Damian Marshall hit Simon Gibson in the end zone with an eight yard pass. The two point conversion attempt failed. Lancaster struggled to move the ball and the Sabres defence were able to give the ball back to their offensive teammates to move the ball again. Behind strong running from fullback John Stack, Sheffield drove to the 12 yard line, where RB Ben King ran a sweep behind blocking from Stack and WR Will Davis into the corner of the end zone.

On the bombers’ next possession, they were pinned inside their 10 yard line and were forced to punt. The snap bounced at the feet of the punter, who was forced to run the ball but was unable to escape his own end zone as CB Dan Eyles laid a huge hit on him in the front corner. From then on, the weather took control, making any offensive success hard to come by.

It was Sheffield who controlled the ball and the clock, forcing offensive errors by Lancaster along the way, to seal a hard fought win in tough conditions.

Newcastle Mariners 6-37 Sheffield Sabres

An improved Mariners team were not improved enough as the playoff hungry Sheffield Sabres closed out the regular season with a win, sealing a playoff spot.

The Sabres clinched their first post season place with a strong team performance against the visiting Newcastle Mariners. WR Simon Gibson opened the scoring with a 25 yard touchdown catch which was converted by Ben King’s extra point kick. In the second quarter, with Sheffield moving the ball again, Newcastle CB Chris Bland stepped up took an interception 55 yards for the touchdown. The conversion attempt failed. With just over a minute remaining in the half the Sabres marched downfield to extend their lead as Damian Marshall found a wide open Will Davis in the end zone. The PAT gave Sheffield a 14 – 6 halftime lead.

In the third quarter with Newcastle attempting to punt, a Sheffield hand blocked the kick for DT Matt Court to rumble 10 yards into the end zone. A short time later the Sabres offense came back into the game, driving downfield but coming up short and settling for a 25 yard Ben King field goal. On their next drive, however, they weren’t to be stopped, as FB John Stack powered his way over the goal line from two yards out. The scoring didn’t stop there. With the Mariners pinned back inside their 10 yard line, a high snap sailed over the punter’s head and into the end zone where Clive Kelty recovered for the Sabres, sealing a 37-6 win over their division rivals.

Sheffield Sabres 13-18 Stirling Clansmen

A long trip north was fruitless for the Sabres as the lead was lost late in the game and an exciting season was ended in Stirling. Sheffield’s match at Stirling escaped the wintry conditions which had hit Scotland over the weekend and the Sabres first playoff encounter was an exciting one.

After a scoreless first quarter, Sheffield opened the scoring when QB Damian Marshall found Simon Gibson slanting across the field and Gibson eluded defenders to reach the end zone from 60 yards out. Stirling came back and methodically drove downfield for QB Andrew Macalla to run the ball into the corner of the end zone from seven yards out. Stirling weren’t finished there though. With the clock ticking toward the end of the first half they scored again as Jon Sutherland caught a pass from Macalla to give the Clansmen a 12-6 halftime lead.

In the third quarter, a fired up Sheffield defence came out and stopped Stirling’s offensive momentum. The Sabres offense then drove downfield, converting a crucial fourth down and 10 as Marshall found Gibson for a 12 yard gain. From there the Sabres went on to score through Gibson once more as he caught a pass from Marshall for an eight yard touchdown. Ben King’s PAT then gave Sheffield a 13-12 lead. From then Sheffield were moving the ball but couldn’t find a way to score and Stirling made them pay.

Driving down to the two yard line, aided by some key penalties, Andrew Macalla scored his second TD of the day to make the score 18-13. Sheffield found themselves with the ball at their own 13 yard line with five minutes left in the game.

An injury sustained by LT Eddie Mellor caused a stoppage in the game as the ambulance crew had to take him to a nearby hospital. Fortunately Mellor, who was named one of the game’s MVPs, had sustained a badly sprained neck and was able to walk later on and return home with Sheffield. After around an hour’s stoppage in the game play recommenced.

The Sabres were unable to advance from second and five and were forced to punt the ball downfield and hope to regain possession. The Clansmen, however, had other ideas and were able to convert key plays and get first downs to run out the clock.

Despite the loss, and the chances they had to win, Sheffield look forward to returning to playoff action next year, albeit without long-time Sabres legends Simon Gibson, Will Davis, Ben King and Damian Marshall.

Match reports

Derby Braves 26-0 Sheffield Sabres

The Sabres looked like a new team in this 26 – 0 loss to the derby Braves. The Sabres passing attack had several completions but were unable to punch the ball intro the end zone.

Sheffield Sabres 6-44 Hull Sharks

The Sabres travelled to Hull for their first every away game. Simon Gibson had the honour of the Sabres first ever points when he returned a punt 70 yards for a touchdown. Although this did little to offset the 44 points against.

Sheffield Sabres 18-12 Newcastle Mariners

The Sabres took their first ever win with an overtime touchdown from Club Founder Damian Marshall. The victory celebrations included a lap of honour of Gateshead International Stadium.

Sunday’s trip to Newcastle saw one of the BCAFL’s original teams from the 1985/86 season come up against the league’s newest team, the Sheffield Sabres. The difference in club age didn’t come into it as two young and enthusiastic squads both went out looking for their first win. Sheffield began confidently moving the ball on their first possession, only for a fumble to stop them near midfield, where Newcastle took over, giving the ball to Jon Stoddard to open the scoring with a 40 yard run. The extra point kick failed.

Undeterred, Sheffield continued to play hard, and some strong defence forced the Mariners to punt, only for Simon Gibson to return it 60 yards for the tying score. The Sabres’ two point conversion pass was stopped by Newcastle. Sheffield came back to score again on their next drive with an 18 yard touchdown pass from QB Damian Marshall to Gibson, for his second TD of the game, giving the Sabres a 12-6 halftime lead.

The Newcastle University team came out fired up after halftime and managed to tie the game with Stoddard’s second touchdown, this time a two yarder. Defence continued to rule for the rest of the game, with Sheffield stopped several times inside the Mariner 10 yard line. The game looked over with one minute to go when a Newcastle receiver was tackled on the Sheffield one yard line by rookie Nicolas Carignano after a huge pass completion. From here the Mariners were stopped twice by a spirited Sheffield goal line stand and the clock ran out, sending the game into overtime.

The extra period went much the same way as the fourth quarter with Sheffield moving the ball but unable to punch it in for the score. A big play came with two minutes to go as Will Davis outleaped a defender to haul in a 30 yard pass which brought the Sabres into the Newcastle red zone. From here, Ben King ran behind his blockers well to set up the Sabres inside the five on fourth down. King’s sweep to the end zone was stopped, but a facemask penalty gave the Sabres a second chance. Down on the one yard line now Sheffield weren’t to be stopped, and it was Marshall who won the game with a QB sneak with less than a minute to go before the game was declared a tie. The score sent the Sheffield squad wild in celebration as the Sabres won their first game in their BCAFL inaugural season.

The Sabres played their inaugural game against city rivals, the Lightning, in a nine-a-side flag game at Don Valley Bowl, Sheffield on 12 March. With the sun shining on a warm Sunday afternoon, both teams took the field and showed their first quarter nerves. With the ball deep in Sabres’ territory, neither offence could gain any yardage and the quarter ended scoreless.

In the second quarter, the Sabres offence came to life with sharp running from halfback Alun Roger who was following powerful blocks from the offensive line and fullback John Stack. The Sabres marched methodically downfield until QB Damian Marshall threw a screen pass to Roger who took the ball into the end zone from the 20 yard line. The two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful.

Defensive pressure by the Sabres led to a safety on the Lightning’s next drive, making the score 8-0 and giving the ball back to the University team. Again the Sabres offence drove down field, helped by a 30 yard pass from Marshall to WR Neil Whiffing. More impressive running from Roger and Stack put the ball on the Lightning 15 yard line. From there, Marshall hit a wide open Gary Lloyd coming from tight end, who jinked and weaved through defenders to score in the corner of the end zone. Neil Whiffing caught the two point conversion to make the halftime score 16-0.

Sheffield University’s defensive front, led by captain Jon Bertram and rookie Anthony Setiadi, continued the pressure in the second half, causing broken plays and poor throws by the Lightning’s veteran Quarterback. With Cam Keil in at QB, the Sabres continued to move the ball, helped by Keil’s intuitive running, although the endzone eluded them.

In the fourth quarter, the Sabres’ offence came back to life to capitalise on turnovers forced by the defence. Marshall threw to former Leicester Panther Hugh Mortimer, who went in from two yards out to make the score 22-0. John Stack scored the two point conversion. After another turnover, the Sabres moved the ball down to the Lightning eight yard line, from which Marshall ran a bootleg into the corner for the final score of the game, as the Sabres won their first ever, 30-0.

Offensive captain: John Stack (FB)
Offensive MVP : Alun Roger (HB)
Defensive captain : Jon Bertram (DE)
Defensive MVP : Jon Bertram (DE)
Special teams captain : Hugh Mortimer (WR/LB)
Special teams MVP : “Shaggy” (P/FS)