Battle of The Blues

Surrey Stingers vs Brighton Tsunami

24th February 2008 - Varsity Centre, Guildford

The Stingers ended their season on Sunday with a home game against Brighton. For several senior players this game was to be their last game in a Stinger uniform and they were hoping to leave on a high note by defeating the Tsunami for Surrey’s first win of the season.

The Stingers came out playing with the kind of intensity and passion that has been missing for most of the season. Following a big gain by Running Back Ant Copper, Rik Kilby was able to score his first rushing touchdown of the season from three yards out as the Stingers put points on the scoreboard early. The score was Surrey’s first offensive touchdown of the season. The defence was also playing up to high standard, shutting down the Tsunami offence for much of the first quarter.

As the second quarter began though, Brighton took the lead by scoring a touchdown and converting the extra point. Looking to take back the lead, the Stingers offence took the field. The offence put together a good drive, highlighted by a third and long deep ball connection between QB Anil Dodah and Wide Receiver Folley Ogundele. As the Stingers threatened to score again as they found themselves deep in Tsunami territory. The Stingers could not make any progress, however, and faced fourth down. QB Anil Dodah once again looked for Wide Receiver Folley Ogundele for the big play, this time in the end zone. Unfortunately, Ogundele could not haul in the pass under triple coverage meaning Surrey lost the chance to re-take the lead.

Seizing an opportunity to strengthen their lead, Brighton scored once more before halftime.

Even though the Stingers headed into halftime behind, they still knew that victory was within their reach.

It was Brighton that came out the sharper team, though, as the third quarter began. The visitors were able to score three touchdowns leaving the hosts with an almost insurmountable task on their hands.

The Stingers defence was able to keep Brighton off the scoreboard in the fourth quarter as the offence tried desperately to score quickly and perhaps make a final effort at a comeback. Time was against them, however, and the Stingers offence was unable to cut into Brighton’s lead as time expired to finish the fourth quarter.

Rookies Jared Norman (3 total tackles, 1 forced fumble) and Robbie Shaw (8 tackles) finished off their seasons with strong performances in Sunday’s game and Linebacker Jamal Graham was able to grab his first interception of the year. Veterans Mark Tomlinson and Chris Mantell also played well despite the loss. On offence Running Back Rik Kilby had his best game of the season (44 yards rushing, 1 touchdown).

Despite the 0 – 8 record, the campaign has given Stingers rookies a full seasons experience in the BUAFL. This experience will prove invaluable come next year, especially with many veterans departing the team. The future does look promising, though, as the Stingers rookies performed well all season long and, with an off season of hard work, can only improve.

Final Score: Brighton 35 - Surrey 6

- Match Report Provided by Jeremy Van Waveren

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Stingers Unable to Defeat Knights

Surrey Stingers vs Reading Knights

17th February 2008 - Bulmershe Court, Reading

The Reading Knights hosted the Surrey Stingers on Sunday in the second and final meeting of the two teams in the 2008 season.

The Stingers hoped to foil Reading’s playoff push with a victory away from home but with Surrey losing 12 – 0 in the first meeting of the two teams, the odds were stacked in the Knights favour.

The Knights offence started well by driving deep into Stingers territory but Surrey’s defence halted the attack as they were able to force Reading into a field goal attempt, which they missed, leaving both teams scoreless mid way through the first quarter.

The Surrey offence began to gain some momentum as they constructed productive drives in which they were able pick up several first downs. This momentum, however, was taken away as Reading were able to score three touchdowns before half – time. This left the Stingers having to produce a remarkable comeback if they were to win the game.

And that comeback looked even more unlikely as the Knights took back the second half kick off for a touchdown.

The Stingers did improve, however, after the shaky start to the second half. Surrey’s passing attack began to take shape for the first time all year. With the absence of GB Wide Receiver Folley Ogundele due to injury, the Stingers receiving corps had to step up which they did. Led by QB Anil Dodah, the rookie connected with veteran Wide Receiver Steve McCarthy for good gains, with McCarthy making a highlight reel one-handed catch for a first down. Unfortunately, these drives were halted by interceptions. Despite this, the Surrey QB looks to be growing in confidence as the Stingers offence improves from week to week.

The Stinger defence remained strong for the rest of the game, giving up only one more score the rest of the game as they were able to intercept the Reading QB twice in the second half.

Surrey now looks to next week’s home clash with Brighton to try and avoid a 0 – 8 season. If the Stingers can stay consistent with their good play on both offence and defence, the possibilities of Stingers picking up their first win against the Tsunami next week are very good. The Knights end their season with this win and now prepare for the playoffs.

Final Score: Reading 35 - Surrey 0

- Match Report Provided by Jeremy Van Waveren

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Southampton Supreme Again

Surrey Stingers vs Southampton Stags

10th February 2008 - Wide Lane, Southampton

The Stingers travelled south to face the Stags for the second meeting of the two teams this season. Surrey knew that a win against the unbeaten Stags would be a difficult task but this did not stop the Stingers playing with passion and intensity from the opening kick off right down to the last second of the fourth quarter.

Under the late afternoon sun, Southampton started brightly scoring three touchdowns in the opening quarter.

It was in the second quarter, though, when Surrey scored their first points of the season. Fittingly enough, it was the Stingers’ defence who were able to produce the highlight of the year for this young Surrey team. Game-time replacement Defensive End Sam O’Brien was able to recover a Stags’ fumble and run it back 50 yards for the score as the Stingers’ sideline exploded in celebration as Surrey were able to finally put points on the scoreboard. The fact that the score came against the top ranked team in the country (and fierce rivals) made the celebrations all the more sweet.

Southampton continued to play at the high standard that has made them favourites to win the College Bowl as they added score after score against a depleted Surrey squad. The Stingers continued to play on though, despite mounting injuries. This meant everybody from veterans to rookies had to play offence, defence and special teams for most of the game. Surrey showed their grit and determination as everybody on the roster stepped up to fill in the gaps made by the numerous absentees and injuries.

The Stags added two more touchdowns in the fourth as they went on to win their sixth game of the season while the loss sees Surrey still searching for their first.

In a season where consistency has been a problem for the Stingers’ offence, the problem persisted against the Stags. There were moments where the offensive unit looked completely in sync, picking up good yardage and momentum. Unfortunately, these flashes were frequently followed by three and outs, putting an end to promising drives.
 
Surrey’s leading tackler on Sunday was rookie Jared Norman (8 total tackles) who is continuing to emerge as a strong candidate for Rookie of the Year whilst Veteran Wide Receiver Folley Ogundele, who played most of the game with a dislocated shoulder as a Defensive Back, grabbed an interception. Linebacker and Running Back Anthony Copper (3 tackles, 1 for a loss) was one of the many strong performers on both offence and defence.

The Stingers will now travel to Reading to take on the Knights and Southampton will host the Portsmouth Destroyers.

Final Score: Southampton Stags 89 Surrey Stingers 6

- Match Report Provided by Jeremy Van Waveren

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The Surrey Showdown Ends In Vikings Victory

Surrey Stingers vs Royal Holloway Vikings

3rd February 2008 - Varsity Centre, Guildford

The Royal Holloway Vikings visited the Surrey Stingers on Sunday 3rd February in the Stingers’ first game back from the Christmas break. Surrey were looking to avenge their week two loss to the Vikings, as well as pick up their first victory of the season.

The Christmas break looked as if it had reinvigorated the Stingers’ offence as the first quarter started brightly for Surrey. Newly positioned Running back Ant Copper and  returning workhorse Sam O’Brien headed a strong rushing attack as Surrey began to pick up consecutive first downs at will, moving the ball down the field towards the Vikings’ goal line.

The Stingers’ defence also started well, making key tackles to slow down a potent Royal Holloway offence. The good production on offence was not converted into points however, as both teams headed into the second quarter scoreless.
That was soon to change as Royal Holloway were able to score through the air, and with the Vikings not able to add the extra point, the score was 6 – 0.

As the Stingers’ offence next took to the field, they were hoping to level the score but, despite their strong play, could only manage a punt on 4th down. This gave the Vikings possession of the ball, which they took advantage of by scoring another touchdown, this time on the ground, making the score 12 – 0, and that was how it remained until half time.

Even though the score was not in their favour, Surrey played well and looked to perform at an equally high level in the second half.

Unfortunately, it was the Vikings who came out of the half time break looking the sharper of the two teams as they scored twice in the third quarter to push their lead to 26 points.

As throughout the game, in the fourth quarter, Surrey’s defence stood tall as Safeties Robbie Shaw and Ed Day both intercepted errant passes made by Royal Holloway’s quarterback. This strong defensive stand and further turnovers, gave the Stingers offence a chance to make a last attempt at a consolation score. Stingers’ rookie QB Anil Dodah connected with Receiver Folley Ogundele and Half-Back Sam O’Brien as Surrey moved desperately down the field to try and cut the deficit. The clock was against the Stingers, however, and Surrey’s late drive fell short as time expired.

As well as grabbing an interception, Defensive Captain Ed Day added 9 total tackles and recovered a fumble whilst the Stingers rookies continued to play well with Robbie Shaw (8 total tackles, 1 Interception) and Jared Norman (4 total tackles) having strong games against a very good Royal Holloway offence.

Next week, Surrey head south to face a formidable Southampton Stags team whilst Royal Holloway take on the Reading Knights.

Final Score: Royal Holloway 26 Surrey Stingers 0

- Match Report Provided by Jeremy Van Waveren

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No Momentum In The Mud

Surrey Stingers vs Portsmouth Destroyers

2nd December 2007 - ROKO Complex, Portsmouth

The Surrey Stingers travelled to Portsmouth on Sunday to face the Destroyers in a game that wouldn't be decided until late into the fourth quarter.

Windy weather conditions meant it would be difficult for either team to pass so the running game featured heavily throughout the first half.

Running Back Rik Kilby gained some hard earned yards on the ground but for much of the first quarter both defenses dominanted, preventing either offense from picking up a first down.
After a number of impressive stops from the Stingers' defence, Portsmouth were forced to punt. The punt at first appeared to have landed in the endzone, but the officials spotted the ball at the two yard line, which meant that instead of having the ball at the 20 yard line, the Stingers were left deep inside their own territory. Following this strange and contentious call, Running Back Steve McCarthy was tackled in the endzone for a Safety giving the Destroyers a 2 - 0 lead midway through the second quarter.

As Portsmouth received the ball on the ensuing kick - off, the Stingers' defense remained strong and stopped any momentum that the Destroyers might have gained following the score. Surrey rookie DB and game MVP Luke Martin swatted down a pass attempt on third down to halt the drive as Portsmouth's field goal attempt on fourth down failed.
Before the half was over the Destroyers were again threatening to score. A vintage Stingers' defensive stand, however, kept the score at 2 - 0 going into halftime.

The Surrey offence began the third quarter by switching to a three running back formation, which proved to be a good move as Running Backs Ant Copper and Kailiaum Woodley gained some positive yards against the Destroyers defense. The momentum looked to be shifting in Surrey's favour, but a fumble put an end to what had been a promising start to the second half for the Stinger's.

The Destroyers took advantage of the turnover and managed to keep the Stingers' defense on the field for eight minutes as they once again found themselves near Surrey's goal line. Once again showing the resililence they have displayed all year, the Stinger's defense prevented the Destroyers from scoring as defensive lineman Chris Lackey forced a fumble, giving the Surrey offence another chance to score their first points of the season.

The Surrey offence, however, could not produce the much needed score.

Late in the fourth quarter the Destroyers got the ball back and drove down the field and found the endzone to make the score 8 - 0. Following the successful two point conversion by Portsmouth, the score was 10 - 0.

The Stingers' offence found themselves in a familiar position as they tried to drive down the field quickly, turning to WR Folley Ogundele to inject a spark in the backfield. Breaking off big gains, the attack was to be in vain however as penalties halted the progress of successive first downs.   The Stinger's are still looking for their first win of the season and the Destroyers now move to 2-2 with the win.

Even with the loss, the Stingers produced their finest team performance of the season. The defense was at its best on Sunday as Chris Mantell (13 total tackles) and Shane McCann (8 total tackles) provided their team with strong showings. Stingers rookies continued to play well and DBs Jared Norman (5 tackles) and Luke Martin (2 tackles, 2 passes defended) had their best games of the season.

Final Score: Portsmouth 10 - Surrey 0

- Match Report Provided by Jeremy Van Waveren

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Surrey Continue to Struggle

Surrey Stingers vs Reading Knights

18th November 2007 - Varsity Centre, Guildford

The Stingers lost their third game of the season on Sunday as they faced the Reading Knights on a day where the weather proved to be the biggest factor. The loss pushes Surrey to the bottom of the Southern division as Reading picked up their first win of the season.

Poor conditions lead to both offenses struggling for much of the first half with neither team unable to produce any kind of sustained offensive attack.  Surrey’s defence, though, was solid, once again playing up to the high level which it has sustained since week one. The half ended 0 – 0 with both teams knowing that one score would probably decide the game. Unfortunately, the first score of the game went to the Knights as the Reading offense converted a Stinger’s turnover into six points to start the third quarter.

The heavy rain and windy conditions meant that both teams continually fumbled, hindering any progress from either offenses. The Stinger’s did, however, find themselves in Reading territory mid way through the third, thanks to a 40 yard run by Kalaium Woodley. On the next play, though, Surrey fumbled the ball and it was recovered by Reading. The Knights took advantage of the turnover by driving into Stinger's territory and then into the endzone for a touchdown. The two point conversion failed leaving Reading up 12 - 0 with time running out for the Stingers.

Once again Surrey tried hard to make a comeback but it was not to be as the Knights came away victors on a rain soaked day in Guildford.
The Stingers were clearly missing the intensity which they showed against Southampton last week but now have a bye week to recuperate before they travel to face Portsmouth on 2nd December. Nothing less than a win is required if Surrey's season is to get under way. Reading now travel to the coast to face Brighton.

Final Score: Surrey 0 - Reading Knights 12

- Match Report Provided by Jeremy Van Waveren

- Picture Provided by picsbyvic.co.uk

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Southampton Too Strong

Surrey Stingers vs. Southampton Stags

11th November 2007 - Varsity Centre, Guildford

The Stinger's home opener saw them go up against the Southampton Stags in an intense battle between two old rivals. Surrey were looking to improve on last week's performance against Royal Holloway where their defence was stellar but the offence couldn't find the endzone.

The Stags soon opened the scoring as GB running back Tam Amachree sprinted in from 18 yards out, but with the extra point conversion failing, Southampton were only up 6 - 0. Disappointingly, 6 - 0 soon turned into 13 - 0 as the Stags defense forced a Surrey fumble in Stingers territory which lead to Southampton QB Nic Bee running in for the touchdown. Although the Stinger's were down by two scores, Surrey's offence looked more cohesive and comfortable than it had been last week as running back Rik Kilby managed to pick up some good yards on the ground against a tough Stag's defense.

Southampton added two more scores before the half to make the score 27 - 0 but the Surrey offence did manage to produce its longest gain of the season as QB Anil Dodah found running back Kaliaum Woodley for a 38 yard gain giving the team a confidence boost for the second half. Unfortunately, this was not to last, as the Stags started the second half strong with renewed energy as they proceeded to score 20 points in the third quarter and then another 13 in the fourth.

Despite the heavy loss there is cause for optimism in the Stinger's camp as next week's home game against the Reading Knights approaches. The Stingers played hard all game long with the sort of effort and intensity that is expected week in and week out in the BUAFL. Players such as Chris Mantell had to play on offense, defense and special teams but the Stingers' approach and improving organisation as a team overall, shows promise of better things to come for this young Surrey team.

Once again, Surrey's defence performed at a high level against one of the best offences in the country. Veteran DB Ed Day (4 tackles, 1 pass defended) and rookie DB Robbie Shaw (4 tackles and a sack) were just two of the stellar performances in Sunday's game by the Stinger's D.

Final Score Southampton Stags 60 - Surrey 0

- Match Report Provided by Jeremy Van Waveren

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Vikings Victorious

Surrey Stingers vs. Royal Holloway Vikings

4th November 2007 - Egham Rugby Club

The Surrey Stingers’ season got under way on Sunday 4th November against the Royal Holloway Vikings in a low scoring tight game.

The Stingers were looking to start off the 2007 campaign on a good note and rushed for 122 yards on the ground but could not find the end zone in an opening game where both defences played the more important roles.

The game began ominously with Royal Holloway taking the opening kickoff back for a touchdown only for it to be called back for an offside penalty.

Royal Holloway looked to jump in front early as they quickly found themselves down inside Surrey's ten yard line but a strong Stingers defensive stand resulted in the Vikings turning the ball over on downs. The Stingers offense, however, could not take advantage as running backs Kaliaum Woodley and Rik Kilby were stifled by the Viking's defensive line. Things didn't improve as the Stingers turned the ball over on their next three possessions, the first being the most costly as rookie QB Anil Doodah's pass was picked off and returned for a touchdown. After the converted extra point the Vikings were 7 – 0 by the end of the first.

Following a Stinger’s fumble, the Vikings improved their lead as QB Rob Collins found RB Rich Lewsley on a swing pass to put them up 13 – 0. Royal Holloway’s two point conversion was, however, thwarted by Surrey’s stout defence leaving the Vikings up by two scores. Going into the half, Surrey had only managed one first down, their longest gain being a 15 yard run by Kaliaum Woodley, but their defence had been stellar, managing to limit Royal Holloway to only one score despite their four trips into the Stinger’s red zone.

Having kept the score close, Surrey looked to start the second half with a renewed intensity but the Stinger's offense was shut down by strong defense. The Viking’s offense wasn’t fairing much better as consecutive drives were dismantled following sacks from veteran DL Mark ‘Klerf’ Chaffer and Chris Mantell. With the Stinger’s defence keeping them in the game, Surrey’s offense finally looked alive when WR Folley Ogundele was put in at running back and managed to break off runs of 29 and 27 yards only for both to be called back due to holding penalties.

The Stingers defence continued to perform strongly and gave the offense one last chance to cut into the Viking’s lead. In the final two minutes the Stingers frantically marched down the field, with Steve McCarthy and Kaliaum Woodley breaking off runs of 7 yards each and by the time QB Anil Dodah found Folley Ogundele for a 15 yard pick up, it was all a little too late as time expired.

Despite the loss, many positives can be taken from game as many rookies gained their first experience in the BUAFL. LB Jamal Graham recorded his first sack whilst DBs Robbie Shaw (5 tackles, 2 passes defended, 1 sack) and Jared Norman (2 tackles, 1 pass defended) were amongst the solid performances shown by Stingers rookies in Sunday’s game.

Final Score Royal Holloway 13 - Surrey 0

- Match Report Provided by Jeremy Van Waveren