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 Match Reports |
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Match Reports 2004-2005
Lancaster @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks @ Staffordshire
Leeds @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks @ Teeside
Sunderland @ UCH Sharks
UCH Whales @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks @ Newcastle
Newcastle @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks @ Sunderland
UCH Sharks @ Sunderland
Newcastle @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks @ Newcastle
UCH Whales @ UCH Sharks
Sunderland @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks @ Teeside
Leeds @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks @ Staffordshire
Lancaster @ UCH Sharks
Match Reports 2003-2004
Leeds Celtics 13-6 @ UCH Sharks
UT Cougars 6-8 @ UCH Sharks
Sheffield Sabres 14-20 @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks 19-2 @ Sheffield Hallam Warriors
UCH Sharks 12-18 @ Sheffield Sabres
UCH Sharks 0-13 @ Newcastle Raiders
UCH Whales 0-6 @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks 8-12 @ Leeds Celtics
Staffordshire Stallions 36-10 @ UCH Sharks
Plate Competition
UT Cougars @ UCH Sharks
UT Cougars vs. Newcastle Raiders (@ UCH Sharks)
Newcastle Raiders @ UCH Sharks
Plate Competition
The Northern Plate Competition 2004 was held by the UCH Sharks, who welcomed competition from the UT Cougars and the Newcastle Raiders.
UT Cougars @ UCH Sharks
A particularly clement day in the fine city of Hull brought together the first match of the BCAFL Northern Plate between heated rivals the UT Cougars and the UCH Sharks. Teeside, looking for revenge due to a controversial Sharks victory in the regular season, started strongly, an impressive running game culminating in a 6 yard run from veteran running back Rich Marshall. Teeside failed to convert the 2PAT, and the Sharks took over on offence. The Sharks bounced straight back with a mix of run and pass, and by converting on crucial 4th down situations. The drive finished with a 30 yard pass from QB Marc Gent to rookie receiver Mike Collins. The two point conversion was wasted on a fumbled snap, and the match became deadlocked at 6-6 for most of the third quarter. After some hard hitting by both defences, the deadlock was finally broken in the fourth quarter by Cheyne McDonald on a 5 yard run, who then also converted the 2PAT with a 3 yard run. The game ended 14-6, giving Teeside a hard fought victory.
UT Cougars vs. Newcastle Raiders (@ UCH Sharks)
A particularly clement day in the fine city of Hull had turned into a washout by the time the Newcastle Raiders kicked off against the UT Cougars in the second game of the BCAFL Northern Plate. A lot was riding on this game for all concerned as a win for Teeside would guarentee them a trophy, but a lose would make the final game the trophy decider. Both teams exchanged possessions for much of the match as an edgy defensive stalemate ensued, with neither team being able to get much positive yardage with the ball. This continued until the fourth quarter where the Cougars punted from the Raiders 30 yard line, the punt starting Newcastle on their own 4 yard line. What followed was a sublime 96 yard offensive drive, with some clever trick plays getting the Raiders out of trouble on fourth down. Hard running got the Raiders within striking distance, and with almost the last play of the game, Tom Bouch found Thomas Hennihen-Major for a 12yard reception. The 2PAT failed and the Raiders came out victorious to dash Teeside’s hopes of a trophy and to give the eagerly watching Sharks a lifeline in their search for silverwear.
Newcastle Raiders @ UCH Sharks
An extraordinarily clement afternoon beheld the fine city of Hull as the final game of the BCAFL Northern Plate was being played between the hosts, the UCH Sharks, and the Newcastle Raiders. The match started with a tense defensive struggle, with neither side being able to put an offensive drive together. Big hits were flying in from both sides, especially Sharks Mexican Linebacker Miguel Serrano and Raiders GB Tight End/Linebacker Jonathan Rooney. The stalemate was broken in the second quarter with a powerful run by Newcastle RB Rob Lochrie. The 2PAT was converted by Raiders QB Tom Bouch on a sneak. The game continued as a defensive struggle, with Hull struggling to get an effective running game going without their star running back and future Sharks hall of famer Richard Cochrane, sidelined through injury for the first time in his 4 year Sharks career. In the fourth quarter the Sharks tried to put pressure on a tiring Newcastle defence with a series of long passes, but it was all in vain as the score remained the same and Newcastle became the 2004 BCAFL Northern Plate champions.
Staffordshire Stallions 36-10 UCH Sharks
After a shakey start for the defence, coupled with bad field postion the Sharks found themselves trailing after touchdowns from Staffs RBs Jason Prince and Jermaine Allen. Things continued to look grim for the Sharks, as the O faltered and the D could do nothing to stop the Stallions on-slaught, with Prince adding another TD. Another turnover by the Sharks allowed Ellis good position to run in for the TD. The Sharks problems continued as Safety turned RB Gaz WIld was brought down in the endzone by DE Chris Ward. Staffs first half mauling was completed when Stallions Brett Rosenbaum went 30yards for the score. However, the 2PAT was intercepted by Sharks DB Mike Frazer, who ran the length of the field for the Safety.
The Sharks came into the second half much the better team, and started to put drives together on offence and stops on defence. This culminated on Gaz Wild running in for a magnificent 70yard TD. The 2PAT was added by Phil Fitzpatrick on a screen pass. The game ended with the Sharks optimistic for next season after their dominant second half display against a team who went on to become conference champions.
UCH Sharks 8-12 Leeds Celtics
The love of Valentines’ Day was nowhere to be seen as Hull travelled to Leeds to keep any hopes of play-offs alive. Leeds started the stronger, scoring in the first quarter. Dario Molea on a QB sneak after a good punt return. The attempted 2PAT, however, saw Leeds fumble and Isaac Rocha collect the ball and dash 95yds, leaving all in his wake, to gain 2 points for Hull. This seemed to inspire the Sharks, who commanded the rest of the half. In the 2nd Quarter, Hull’s offence drove the ball down the field, thanks to the running of Rich Cochrane, Yacine Salmi and Art Sandoval. The defence also put in a strong performance once again. Tackling from Steve Gullick, Neil ‘Bomber’ Harris, and the ‘Thunder and Lightning’ that are Gaz Wild and Michael Frazer, denied Leeds at every turn. After an impressive drive, Yacine Salmi scored, putting the Sharks 8-6 up with a fine 3yd run into the endzone. The 3rd quarter started as the 2nd finished, a defensive struggle, with little between the two sides. Nevertheless, it was the Shark’s defence that was most influential, denying Leeds on numerous occasions. Towards the end of the 4th quarter a good win was within Hull’s grasp. However, due to poor blocking by the punt team, leaving veteran Rob Taylor free to disrupt the punt, the Celtics were left 35yrds out with under ten seconds left. Once again, Hull denied Leeds, but with 2 seconds left, on the last play of the game, Leeds’ QB launched a pass into the endzone. Receiver Gary Armstrong appeared to catch the pass for the touchdown, much to the distress of the Hull team, who came so close to keeping their playoff dreams alive.
UCH Whales 0-6 UCH Sharks
The annual game between the Sharks and Whales kicked off as ever with a hard hitting performance from an all star Whales D containing several internationals, many Shark's Hall of Famers, and even a BCAFL Hall of Famer. The Sharks O couldn't move terribly well, and puntde away their first few possessions. However, the Whales O also couldn't move, the ball being fumbled on their first possession and recovered by Sharks DE Mark WIlson. Key injuries to both O's slowed progression down even further, until the second quarter, where QB Marc Gent threw a 30 yard bomb that went straight through the hands of CB Steve Chad and Safety Pekka Ketonen and into the arms of WR Mike Barrett, who ran it home for the score. Art Sandoval's 2PAT attempt failed, to leave the score at 6-0 to the Sharks at half time. The second half started where the first left off, with neither team being able to put drives together. This continued until the fourth quarter, when a desperate Whales O moved Sharks Hall of Famer John Osibote from Linebacker to Running Back. The effect was three successive 15yard runs, with the Sharks D barely managing to contain him. Eventually they did, and the game finished with the Sharks obtaining a hard fought victory.
UCH Sharks 0-13 Newcastle Raiders
On a sunny day in Gateshead, Newcastle welcomed the UCH Sharks for what was sure o be a hard-hitting affair. The Raiders scored on the very first play, with Rich Green catching a tremendous pass and running into the Endzone, the PAT, by Green, put the Sharks 0-7 down. A stalemate ensued for the rest of the half, with both offences making good drives. Most notabe was the running of Rich Cochrane, who along with Markus Mueller and Yacine Salmi, was one of the Sharks most effective weapons. The second half continued in much the same vein, with Hull coming close to scoring on a number of occasions. Towards the end of the 4th quarter, Newcastle scored again, Green catching in the endzone from a 20 yard pass to complete the win for the Raiders.
UCH Sharks 12-18 Sheffield Sabres
Looking to build on a promising start to the season, Hull travelled to Sheffield Sabres, to whom the Sharks have never lost. The 1st quarter began well for the Sharks, through Yacine Salmi returning the Sabre’s first punt 50yds to put the Sharks 0-6 up. Neither team made much progress for the rest of the half, with both Defences dominant. Superb performances from LB Kev Marshall and DB Simon Seed were instrumental in ensuring the Sharks kept the lead into half-time. Mistakes cost the Sharks dearly in the 3rd quarter, conceding 3 quick touchdowns to a reinvigorated Sabres team. Firstly, a 15yrd pass to RB Dave Leslie equaled the scores. Hull botched the ensuing onside kick allowing Eddie Mellor to recover. The Sabres then scored on an 20yrd pass to Ryan Spokas. The Sabres added to their lead by capitalising on a horrendous fumble by the Sharks O with QB Paul Musker passing to RB Rob Levy. However, coming into the 4th quarter, Hull refused to give up. Strong running from Richard Cochrane drove the ball powerfully at the Sabres, getting the Sharks out of trouble on fourth down several times. Hull’s Defence allowed the offence the chance to level the score, with Safeties Gaz Wild and Michael Frazer commanding, and splendid coverage from CB Isaac Rocha. The Offence capitalised on this, Markus Mueller scoring with a 3yd Run. However, Sheffield managed to hold on, taking a knee to run out the clock. A missed opportunity for the Sharks, who will seek a return to winning ways next week.
UCH Sharks 19-2 Sheffield Hallam Warriors
Looking to continue a good start to the season, Hull travelled to Sheffield to face expansion team SHU Warriors. Hull started the stronger, gaining possession from the kick off and coming within inches of a touchdown on the offence’s first drive. Following heavy pressure from the Sharks defence, the offence regained possession, scoring with a 4yd run from Richard Cochrane. The 2nd quarter continued in the same vein with Hull’s defence, headed by DT couple Steve Gullick and RJ Stockdale, dominating their opposition. This allowed the offence to maintain possession and exploit the running abilities of Cochrane, Markus Mueller and Yacine Salmi. This was completed with great success as rookie Mueller put the Sharks 12-0 up with a tremendous 25yd run, his first of the season. The successful PAT from Mike Barrett ensured the Sharks ended the half winning 13-0. Although the Warriors managed to score a safety early in the 3rd quarter, the Sharks were never under pressure, thanks to the mighty Hull DB’s led by Gaz Wild and Michael Frazer, and the omnipotent pass protection of the O-line, which ensured QB Marc Gent remained unsacked yet again. Hull’s final points of the day came courtesy of Jason Hague, scampering in 3yds to put the game beyond doubt. A deserved victory for the Sharks who continue to dumbfound the sceptics.
Sheffield Sabres 14-20 UCH Sharks
Hull started the stronger of the two teams, with the Defence defying both the passing and running of the Sabres and the Offence driving the ball 60yds before losing possession. However, Sheffield were the first to score, with a 60yd reception from Ryan Spokas in the 1st quarter. The 2PAT by Spokas failed, putting the Sharks 0-6 down. Hull took this as a wake up call, and dominated the rest of the half, with Yacine Salmi, who along with Richard Cochrane and Robert Avery consistently threatened the Sabres, scoring with a 12yd run. Richard Cochrane added another score in the quarter with a 5yd Pass followed by powerful running. Continuing dominance of Hull’s Defence, notably fantastic coverage from DB’s Pete Winchester, Isaac Rocha, Simon Seed and Michael Frazer, ensured the half ended with the Sharks leading 12-8. After half time, with a win still within both teams grasp, the Sharks were unlucky to give away, an interception to Sheffield’s Dave Leslie, who ran the ball 40yds into the endzone. With the pressure on, Hull responded with vigour; the Defence forcing the Sabre’s to punt time and again and the offence driving the ball well. This culminated in the 4th quarter with WR Mike Barrett continuing his good form with an 11yd touchdown reception. Jason Hague, thankful for Jonny Smith’s great blocking, put the Sharks 20-14 up with the 2PAT. A hard fought, but well-deserved victory for the Sharks.
UT Cougars 6-8 UCH Sharks
Looking to forget last week's opening loss to the Leeds Celtics, the Sharks welcomed Teeside to Inglemire Lane hoping to continue a good record against the Cougars. The 1st quarter began slowly, with both offenses driving the ball before being forced to punt. Some great coverage from cornerbacks Isaac Rocha and Pete Winchester defied much of the Cougars passing game. For the Sharks, strong rushing and receiving from Richard Cochrance kept the ball moving. However, at half-time, the score remained 0-0. Both teams started the second half stronger and more determined than the first. It was the Cougars who were to score first, QB Pete Rogers Passing to Cheyne McDonald for the TD. Following the failed 2PAT, where Sharks LB Miguel Serrano denied the pass attempt, the Sharks offense drove the ball back towards the UT endzone. Powerful running from Cochrane, Salmi, Avery and Jason Hague made many yards for the Sharks. The drive ended with QB Marc Gent, once again thankful for the Sharks O-Line, passing to Cochrane who powered home the TD. The 2PAT was successful, Robert Avery scampering 2yds to put the Sharks 8-6 ahead. Vigorous pressure from the Sharks D-Line, notably DTs R-J Stockdale and Steve Gullick, and more rushing and passing from the Offense, took the game to the final whistle. A hard fought victory for the Sharks who hope this will kick start their season.
Leeds Celtics 13-6 UCH Sharks
The other all-Northern Conference Eastern Division game saw the Celtics travel to Hull. The Sharks started off the stronger of the two teams, their defence kept up pressure on Leeds while their Offence built each drive before a 20-yard run by Yasine Salmi set up veteran Shark Robert Avery's 1-yard run into the end zone. The Sharks started the 2nd quarter still dominating Leeds but were unable to capitalise. With the Celtics defence gaining good field position the Offence were able to run the ball down the field culminating in QB Jack Nill running in from 15-yards for the score midway through the quarter. A defensive stalemate ensued until the fourth quarter when a Richard Nice interception set up the Celtics Offence with good field position. From there the offence were able power in the score coming from RB Todd Scales on a dive play and the PAT was successful. Although Hull gave a great last ditch effort in driving the ball downfield the Celtics were able to hold on to secure the win.
Match Reports 2002-2003
UCH Sharks 31-6 @ Leeds Celtics
UCH Sharks 12-6 @ Lancaster Bombers
Loughborough Aces 6-13 @ UCH Sharks
Sheffield Sabres 6-6 @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks 6-46 @ Stirling Clansmen
UCH Whales 0-6 @ UCH Sharks
Oxford Cavaliers 1-1 @ UCH Sharks
UEA Priates 6-14 @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks 20-0 @ UT Cougars
Playoffs Round 1 UCH Sharks 8-15 @ Nottingham Outlaws
UCH Sharks 8 Nottingham Outlaws 15
The Sharks travelled to Nottingham in this Wildcard match up. The weather was sunny and the air crisp with expectation. Nottingham won the toss and chose to kick, giving the Sharks the first possession, who promptly went three and out. The punt was returned to the 50-yard line, and the Outlaws moved the ball to Sharks 35 yard line where they were forced by good Sharks Defense to attempt the field goal. The field goal was successful, put the outlaws up by 3 points. The Sharks could have taken the lead when the Outlaws long snap sailed over the punter’s head and the Sharks D made the tackle around the Outlaw 30 yard line. QB Marc Gent tried an option pass to TE Rob Avery who had sneaked into the Outlaws endzone undetected but failed to contact with him. The rest of the half was a defensive battle with both Offenses struggling to make consistent yards. As the Second half got underway and the Outlaws produce a sustained drive which included a 30 yards cherry-picker play and ended with 8 yard QB keeper as the third quarter ended, making the score 9-0. The extra point was deflected by the Sharks D, and sailed just wide. After the kickoff the Sharks failed to keep moving the ball, and the ensuing punt pinned the Outlaws inside their own 20. The Outlaws stalled and were forced to punt inside their own 10. Another bad long snap went out of the back of the endzone giving the Sharks a safety, making the score 9-2, with the Sharks to receive the ball again. The deadlock continued until the depleted Sharks defense gave up yards on the ground and in penalties allowing the Outlaws to score, making the score 15-2 as the two point conversion failed. After some lengthy delays due to serious injuries to key Sharks players, including Dave ‘Pimp’ Reah and Adam Kerwin being taken to hospital, the game resumed. The Sharks began to move the ball well, mainly due to their passing. Once in the Redzone the drive was capped of with a 12 yard pass to Vic Choi for the TD. The two point conversion failed leaving the score at 15-8. The Sharks Onside kick was recovered by the Outlaws, who failed to move the ball against a stubborn Sharks Defense. The Outlaws punt was downed inside the 10 yardline and the Sharks Offense had one more attempt to move the ball with the remaining 50 seconds of the game. On fourth down Fullback Rich Cochrane released downfield made the reception to keep Sharks hopes alive. After more great receptions from Vic Choi and Rob Avery, the Sharks were at the Outlaws 35 yard line. However, the Sharks failed to get the score they needed, and as the final whistle blew, Sharks hopes of the College Bowl died for another year.
UCH Sharks 20 Teeside Cougars 0
A cold day in Darlington hosted the annual clash between perennial Northeast rivals, the Hull Sharks and the Teeside Cougars.
The Sharks got the ball and went 3 and out in their first possessions, as did Teeside, both sides needed victory to further their playoff aspirations and neither side wanted to make the first crucial mistake. On the Sharks next possession they surged forward deep into the Cougars red-zone. Hull thought they were ahead when QB Marc Gent connected with TE Jason Hague, however the play was ruled out because of an inadvertent whistle. Unfazed Gent scored on the very next play this time finding veteran wide-out Victor Choi for the six. The Sharks were enjoying playing on Astroturf, with their best passing display of the season; eventually going 12 of 16 complete passes. The Cougars coverage had no response to this and when they altered formation to slow Hull passing attack it left them vulnerable to the run.
Teeside tried to get back into the game, but were dismayed when Hull LB Kev Marshall picked off a wayward pass by Cougars QB Pete Rogers. The first half carried on in this way with the Sharks O looking strong despite not scoring whereas the Cougars failed to produce much offensively. The deadlock seemed like carrying on after the break until midway through the 3rd quarter when Sharks RB Robert Avery broke a tackle and thundered more than 70 yards of the 80 yard pitch for a dramatic TD. The Sharks lead was then further increased with a Tom Lim 2 point conversion run. Teeside refused to play dead and fought back with the rushing of veteran Richard Marshall. Late in the 4th the Cougars managed to march down to the Sharks 8 but failed to score. The Sharks went 3 and out and Teeside looked threatening. However an amazing 70 yard punt by Gareth Wild not only got the Sharks out of trouble but also pinned Teeside in their own red zone. This position allowed Hull FB Richard Cochrane to power home another 6 to put the game out of the Cougars reach, and confirm the Sharks place in the final Wildcard Berth of the Northern Playoffs.
U.E.A. Pirates 6 UCH Sharks 14
The game had huge playoff ramifications for both teams so both needed the win. As the first half got under way both teams moved the ball well but neither team managed to score. There was strong play on either sides of the ball, but with neither team scoring, the game remained scoreless at the half. After halftime the Sharks Offense surged forward on their opening procession through some strong play by veteran RB’s Robert Avery and Richard Cochrane, but they couldn’t get the ball in the endzone. The Pirates were struggling to stop the run up the middle, and had to move players into the middle to stop ‘Crowbar’ Cochrane. This allowed the Rob Avery and Vic Choi to attack to the outside with devasting effect.
After another 3 and out by the Pirates, Hull got the ball back and pressed on. A 15 yard rush by Victor Choi broke the deadlock and put the Sharks up by 6. The score was further increased when a botched punt allowed first game rookie Ben Breen to tackle the Pirates punter Ian Burchett in his own end zone for a safety. Another offensive mistake by the Pirates gave Hull the ball back 10 yards from UEA’s endzone. This was capitalised upon by the Sharks QB Marc Gent gaining his first passing Touchdown when he connected with WR Mike Barrett, this was also Mike’s first ever TD.
The Pirates refused to give up and finally connected with a long pass in the 4th Quarter for WR Ed Franklin to score. UEA continued to comeback into the match thanks to some strong work by the Pirates QB Banik, however in the end the Sharks D held on.
Oxford Cavaliers 1 UCH Sharks 1
Match postponed due to frozen pitch, awarded as 1-1.
UCH Sharks 0 UCH Whales 6
This was the most eagerly awaited showdown of the season, in which the Sharks play against some of the best players they ever had, in the Oldboy game.
The game kicked off, with the Sharks offence in possession facing a defence jam-packed with former international players, all conference players and basically every great player the Sharks have had in the last decade. Rather unsurprisingly the Sharks mighty offence went backwards, The Whales defence far too accustomed to the Sharks mis-direction plays that they stopped them quite easily. The Whales offence took to the field and promptly marched down the field through the Power running of Craig Waite and Greg Moseley-Clark. Once in the red zone, the Whales scored on an 8 yards QB keeper from Andy Wescott. The two point conversion by the Whales failed and at this point things looked pretty bleak for the Sharks. As the game wore on, the Sharks defence began stopping the Whales offence from moving the ball. The game continued with the Sharks Offense unable to move the ball forwards with any consistency, bright spots appeared with some good work from Simon Etough and Matt Pringle to move the ball forwards. Wide receiver Mike Barrett had his first reception of the year, something he will hope to build on in the coming games. The Sharks defence was standing firm against the Whales offence, giving by far there best display of the year, including two fumble recoveries to get the ball back for the offence with good field position. However, the Sharks O still couldn't capitalise.
As time in the game was running out, the Sharks decide to go to the air, in a desperate attempt to get a late tying score. However, the ball was picked off by linebacker Martin Gardham who ran the ball back to the Sharks 10yard line. The Whales again failed to score as the Sharks Defence stood firm, and the Offense came back onto the field with six seconds left to play. There was time for one last play, everyone thought they knew what was coming a deep pass, the Sharks hoping it would be caught and run in for the touchdown. However, due to a little excess mud on the hands of Hull centre, Dave ‘Pimp’ Reah, the ball squirted out backwards into the backfield. Eventually, the ball was downed and the game was over.
UCH Sharks 6 Stirling Clansmen 46
A vastly depleted Sharks team made the long journey Northwards to face last years playoff foes the Stirling Clansmen.
The Clansmen struck blood first with long-time Clansman RB Jon Sutherland finding space and scoring in the opening drive. Sutherland scored two more before the end of the first 15 minutes of play to make it 24-0 going into the 2nd quarter.
Despite some strong offensive play by Hull, the one-way traffic continued for the rest of the half with ex-Strathclyde QB Gary McNey completing 35 yard and 15 yard passes to Spanish wide-out Carlos Yannes-Roca to make the score 38-0 at the half.
The Sharks came out strong in the second half and put on a good display of defensive football. New Finnish import Rami Eraphosa getting his first interception as a Shark in the 3rd Quarter.
Persistence paid off for the Sharks when on the last play of the 3rd Quarter Star Rookie Simon Eatough found running room and ran 40 yards to put the Sharks in an excellent scoring position. This was capitalised upon by TE Jason Hague who scored from 7 yards out.
The Sharks carried on their silent domination of the second half. Fullback and Linebacker Richard Cochrane again putting in a strong effort on both sides of the ball.
However another long run by Sutherland gave him his fourth TD of the day which was enough to dash both the visitors spirits and hopes.
UCH Sharks 6 Sheffield Sabres 6
A Horrendous downpour turned the Hull pitch into a mudbowl for this local derby. Both sides desperately wanted the win albeit for differing reasons (Hull to help them in the playoff race, Sheffield to record their first ever victory against the Sharks).
Slippery conditions led to a first quarter standstill with neither team quite able to get into a rhythm. Early in the second quarter Sheffield took advantage of some rare complacency by the Sharks Defence, after a long completion from rookie QB Paul Musker, RB Tom Whiting was given the ball and scored from 3 yards out.
This sudden jolt woke up the Hull D who fought the Sabres for every inch from that point onwards thanks in part from big plays by their D-line and ironman Richard Cochrane who had a superb game on both sides of the football.
On the flip-side of the coin Hulls offence continued to struggle on the ground, the muddy conditions stopping their usually strong running game. Although bright sparks did appear in the form of passes from rapidly improving Hull QB Marc Gent to Rob Avery, Vic Choi and Mike Barrett.
After the break both sides again came out fighting but could not put anything together although Sheffield did fare stronger thanks largely to their more-accustomed aerial assault.
In the third quarter the Sharks saw a game-tying interception TD by safety Gaz Wild called back by a sloppy pass interference penalty.
This seemed to be the Sharks only opportunity until late in the fourth quarter with under 5 minutes left Hull got back into the game after a 50 yard punt by jack-of-all trades Gaz Wild pinned the Sabres against there own goal-line. From the ensuing drive Finnish Linebacker Pekka Ketonen picked off Musker’s pass and returned it 10 yards to make the game even. After the next few drives which saw both teams offences being held to 3 and outs, a botched punt return by usually reliable Shark Victor Choi gave the visitors excellent field position with less than a minute to go. Luckily some great work by the Sharks Linebackers and a last play pick by Ketonen forced the game into overtime.
In overtime the Sharks dodged a bullet when Choi fumbled the kick return, but the Sabres couldn’t put the game away. After this early drama both teams swapped procession for the remainder of the OT period and although the Sabres came close in the last few seconds of the game, in the end a draw was the fairest result as both teams had fought hard in the battle.
Loughbough Aces 7 Hull Sharks 13
An unusually dry day in Hull hosted the rematch between last years two Northern Conference finalists.
The Sharks got the ball first and bizarrely took to the air, however despite completions by QB Marc Gent to veterans Victor Choi and Robert Avery, Hull could not score.
Then Loughborough were held to a three and out by Hull’s rapidly improving defence led by captain Gaz Wild. The Aces though were unfazed and managed to drive back with there next procession. A 30 yard run by Aces star RB Rich Marshell appeared to give the visitors the lead. However the joy was shortlived as a holding penalty nulified the play.
This shock woke up the sleepy Sharks who’s offence promptly marched upfield to score. Rob Avery running in from 15 yards for the 6.
The home team got on the scoresheet again early in the second quarter when star rookie TE Simon Eatough managed to break free up the middle and scamper 75 yards for his second ever BCAFL touchdown. Jason Hague got the PAT. This made the score 13-0 at the half.
Both teams came back fired up and it showed as neither side could score despite gaining positive yardage.
In the fourth quarter the Aces got the most unusual of breaks when Sharks jack-of-all-trades Jason Hague picked off a deep bomb at the Sharks 20 only to see the Hull offence fumble the ball away on the very next play. The Aces took full advantage FB Mark Collet scoring from the 3. Andy Stooder made the PAT to cut the deficit to six.
The Sharks D spurned on by memories of last weeks nail-biter in Lancaster did not want a repeat so stepped it up to hold off an aggressive Aces offence.
This allowed the Sharks O to run down the clock to give the Sharks their first win against the Aces since 1989.
Lancaster Bombers 6 UCH Sharks 12
After defeat by the Leeds Celtics, the Sharks travelled across the Pennines to take on the Lancaster Bombers for this War of the Roses clash. The Sharks needed to win to kick-start the season and improve on last weeks opening game, while Lancaster had also suffered a bad loss in there previous game to Teeside.
First year Shark FS Bruce Leatherman set the tone for the afternoon when he made an interception on the first play of the game, he would go on to make another two before the game was over.
This set-up the Sharks offence who marched down the field, only to see their efforts quashed when they fumbled the ball close to the Bombers end-zone.
The first half carried on in this matter with both teams managing to make yards only to be stopped cold by some hard-hitting defensive work.
The deadlock carried on into the second half until Rookie Shark Simon Eatough got the ball, and followed Dave Reah and Rob Avery as they rammed there way up the pitch, before breaking through and scoring mid-way through the third quarter.
The Sharks defence kept the Bombers at bay thanks to their vastly improved D-line and the never-say-die attitude of their backers, Pekka Ketonen making a pick mid-way through the final quarter.
A slip of concentration by the almost flawless Sharks D allowed Bombers QB Chris Mayne to find receiver Bobby Stranges which put the Bombers in the red-zone with less than 10 seconds to go. Mayne again found Stranges as time expired to tie the score. The PAT missed which set-up over-time.
In over-time the Bombers won the toss and elected to receive. They were then held to a 3 and out to give the Sharks the ball at the 50.
Hull also failed to move the ball, but were gifted another chance when the Bombers PR dropped the ensuing punt allowing Sharks RB Victor Choi to recover at Lancaster’s 10 yard line. After being held for little gain on their first 3 downs, Sharks QB Marc Gent rolled left on an option, held onto the ball and raced untouched to the endzone to give the Sharks their first victory of the season.
OMVP - Simon Eatough
DMVP – Will Nicholls, Pekka Ketonen and Matt Pollitt,
Overall MVP - Bruce Leatherman
Rookie of the game - Matt Pringle
UCH Sharks 6 Leeds Celtics 31
The Defending North-Eastern Division Champions 2002-2003 season finally got underway with a visit to local rivals the Leeds Celtics.
The Sharks started strong on their first drive with their experienced running back corps moving the chains behind a strong offensive line. A 40+ yards rush by Jason Hague was followed up by a 5 yard reverse by Victor Choi to put points on the board and to give the Sharks the best possible start that they could hope for.
Leeds responded quickly on their next drive taking the game right to the Sharks defense thanks to some excellent work from American RB Rich Krauss and QB Tom Lockard. Lockard himself capping off the drive with a 15 yard QB keeper to tie the game.
A blocked punt in the second quarter gave the Celtics excellent field position on the Hull 11 from which Lockard again scored this time with a 1 yard QB sneak. The PAT was good to give the Celtics a 7 point lead.
Hull refused to surrender and fought back with some solid rushing up-the-middle from the teams 3 Full-Backs as well as the occasional pass from QB Marc Gent. However the drive was ended by Celtic safety Luke Smith who picked off a Gent thrown pass and then returned it 40 yards untouched to make the score 19-6 to the Celtics at the end of the half.
The Sharks began the second half with renewed ferocity, but despite some strong running and receiving from 3 year veteran Robert Avery, Hull could not put anymore points on the board.
Leeds had no such trouble, RB Smith again finding room to run to make the score 25-6.
The Sharks tried to reduce the deficit but saw their hopes dashed when the sharks QB attempted long bomb was intercepted by Celtic DB Keith Moggach.
On the resulting pocession QB Lockard capped of a good game for himself when he connected with wide-out Alex Fisher to put the game out of the Sharks reach.
Offensive MVP - Rob Avery
Defensive MVP - Kev Marshall
Overall MVP - Rich Cochrane, Ben Grant, RJ Stockdale
Rookie of the Game - Johnny Thompson
Match Reports 2001-2002
UCH Sharks 6 26 @ Derby Braves
UCH Sharks 13 12 @ Leicester Lemmings
Sheffield Sabres 8 19 @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks 19 12 @ UT Cougars
Newcastle Mariners 0 44 @ UCH Sharks
Birmingham Lions 12 19 @ UCH Sharks
UCH Sharks 21 12 @ Leeds Celtics
UT Cougars 12 14 @ UCH Sharks
Playoffs: Round 2 Stirling Clansmen 0 13 @ UCH Sharks
Playoffs: Round 3 UCH Sharks 13 38 @ Loughborough Aces
Playoffs: Round 3 UCH Sharks 13 38 @ Loughborough Aces
The Loughborough Aces end the Sharks eight game winning streak and swept into their second consecutive College Bowl and fifth Bowl appearance in eight years with a decisive win over visitors Hull. From the kickoff the Aces offence, improving with each game, proved unstoppable behind the running of fullback Patrick Schweyen and tailback Leon Cordingley. Quarterback Ollie Jay mastered a 65-yard drive, and a 21-yard strike to wideout Andy Studer set up a 1-yard touchdown run by Schweyen. The Sharks were not impressed, driving 75 yards on the ground for a 13-yard touchdown run running back by Jason Hague on a crucial 4th and 3 play. On their next possession the Aces restored the margin with strong running and accurate passing in the teeth of gusting winds, as tailback Leon Cordingley blasted north-south into the end zone from the 1-yard line. A fumble turnover by the Aces linebacker Rod Bradley set up a 1-yard touchdown run by fullback Schweyen. As the Aces defence held firm on Hull's next drive, tight end Steve Gatenby held on to an 11-yard pass from Jay, with Mattar M'Boge running in the 2-point conversion. Another long Loughborough drive set up Schweyen's 3rd running touchdown of the day, a 6-yard dive, and a comfortable 6-32 lead at the break. As Hull sought to regroup for a second-half recovery, strong Loughborough defence forced a punt on 4th and 32 deep in Hull territory. The snap went wild to set up an Aces recovery on the 5-yard line, but in an amazing stand, Hull forced a turnover on downs on their own 1-yard line and drove the length of the field for a 16-yard touchdown run by Finnish import Olli Tianen. However a comeback was way out of reach as the Aces next drive from the Hull 48-yard line was capped by Schweyen, scoring his 4th of the day from 11-yards out.
Playoffs: Round 2 Stirling Clansmen 0 13 @ UCH Sharks
Visitors Stirling threatened with a series of penetrating drives, but the Sharks defence were taking no prisoners with a conference final in sight. A defensive stalemate was broken in the third quarter as Hull starting quarterback Bernardo Hermosille switched to wideout and American Matt Dorman stepped in behind centre. The tactic paid off to with a succession of quick passes to Rob Avery and Vic Choi setting up a 6-yard touchdown run by Finnish wingback Ollie Tiainen. A late fourth quarter drive of 80-yards was capped by a 17-yard touchdown run by Victor Choi, converted by a Mike Barrett kick. The Sharks next travel to Loughborough for the Northern Conference Final.
UT Cougars 12 14 @ UCH Sharks
The Cougars looked to put behind them the misery of their last two games, opening well with a 70-yard touchdown connection from quarterback Mark Flanagan to nephew JP Flanagan. A defensive stalemate followed with good tackling from both teams. A third quarter 10-yard run by Hull running back Olli Tienan, followed by Tienan running in the conversion put the Sharks in the lead. Teesside rookie Ben McQueeny put the visitors back ahead with a 30-yard touchdown run. But late in the game Hull's Victor Choi delivered the killer blow, returning a punt for a 65-yard touchdown.
UCH Sharks 21 12 @ Leeds Celtics
After last weeks win over Birmingham the Sharks were on a roll in the Northern championship race. After a scoreless first quarter, the Sharks were first off the mark as defensive end Conor Costigan tackled the ball carrier in the end zone for a safety. An 8-yard run by wing back Victor Choi put the visitors further ahead, and an interception by corner back Damien Daere set up a second touchdown by Choi, a 6-yard reception from Mexican quarterback Bernardo Hermosille.
A spirited Leeds fought back with a third quarter fake reverse touchdown run by Hythem Hamed from 6-yards and a 25-yard touchdown run by tailback Jim Harrison late in the fourth quarter. In the dying minutes an interception by the Sharks safety Sam Girvan created good field position from where Victor Choi completed a hat-trick with a 7-yard run, converted by the boot of Mike Barrett. This capped off a strong offensive performance from the improving Sharks O, with RB Rob Avery gaining 115 yards on the day.
Birmingham Lions 12 19 @ UCH Sharks
In a test of North versus South, Hull laid on a dynamic performance against the top ranked Lions. The visitors opened strongly, quarterback Stuart Ennis targetting 6' 3" wideout Michael Spivey for a 14-yard touchdown reception. The Sharks defence would become the key to the game, holding the Lions until late in the second quarter. A turnover by Finnish import Pekka Ketonen deep in Lion's territory set up another Finn, running back Olli Tiainen, for an 8-yard run and a 6-6 scoreline. The Lions defence, rated number one for points conceded, forced a third quarter fumble in the backfield. From there, Stuart Ennis handed off to leading rusher Kevin Joseph for a 1-yard touchdown run. On the Sharks next possession tight end Rob Avery ran for a 5-yard touchdown to again even the score. Special teams proved to be the game breaker as Hull defensive back Gareth Wild blocked a punt, recovered deep in the Lions half by defensive end Conor Costigan. A 15-yard touchdown run down the sideline by Victor Choi, and point-after kick by Mike Barrett finally gave the Sharks the lead and a well-earned win. On this showing, Hull may have College Bowl ambitions, while Birmingham, who again face Oxford on Sunday, may have some thinking to do.
Newcastle Mariners 0 44 @ UCH Sharks
Hull moved to strong contention for a playoff spot with a decisive shutout over visiting Mariners. The Sharks dominated on both sides of the ball. The scoring began with a 15-yard run from Olli Tiainen. An 8-yard touchdown jink by Richard Cochraine and a second by Tiainen, from 5 yards, put the home side 0-18 ahead by the end of the first quarter. Mexican quarterback Hermosillo targetted wideout Victor Choi for a 12-yard touchdown converted by a Mike Barrett kick. Tight end Robert Avery added another, running the ball home from the 3-yard line. Third quarter touchdowns by Robert Hague, from the 7, converted by Barrett, and Tiainen's third, a 10-yard run, sealed the win.
UCH Sharks 19 12 @ UT Cougars
The Sharks brought Teesside's unbeaten run to an end with a strong running game, opening with an 80-yard drive capped by a 6-yard touchdown run by wideout Victor Choi. The Cougar's quarterback Mark Flanagan was picked off on his first attempt by defender Damien Deare, setting up a 3-yard run by running back Olli Tiainen, converted by a Mike Barrett kick. A Cougars reply, a 5-yard touchdown run Gaz Eastwood was countered by 9-yard Rich Cochrane touchdown run. The Cougar's final score, a 6-yard run by tail back Ben McQueeny came in the final minutes. Despite a valiant effort the Sharks defence held on to earn the win.
Sheffield Sabres 8 19 @ UCH Sharks
Sabres (2-2) quarterback Damian Marshall had 256 yards in the air, but failed to break Sharks (2-1) defence, as all points in this game came in a ferocious fourth quarter. Finnish tailback Oli Tiainen opened the Sharks account with an eight yard run, converted by the boot of Mike Barrett. A second from Tiainen, from the twenty, and a fifteen yard run by Victor Choi after a pick by defensive back Damien Deare. Marshall came late with a three yard strike to Simon Gibson, with a two point catch by Will Davis, in the last minutes of the game to deny the Sharks a shut out but it was too little too late as the sharks came away with the win.
UCH Sharks 13 12 @ Leicester Lemmings
A single point-after from the boot of Sharks rookie Mike Barrett was the difference in this mid table nailbiter. Visitors Hull opened with a 60 yard interception return by safety Gareth Wild, converted by Barrett. An immediate kickoff return of 80 yards by Leicester catcher James Adeyinka opened the scoring for Leicester, but the Sharks stopped the PAT to retain the lead. The Lemmings countered took the lead when quarterback Adam Parle bootlegged home from the fifteen. Once again Leicester were denyed the 2 points by a strong Sharks D, leaving the score 7 - 12 at half time lead. A second half deadlock collapsed with a steal by Hull linebacker Simon Grey, who returned the ball 50 yards for what would prove to be the game winner. A Leicester fourth and inches pass was picked off allowing the Sharks to take a knee in the final seconds for their first win of the season.
UCH Sharks 6 26 @ Derby Braves
The Sharks O opened well with a strong rushing and passing game, including a 40+ yards sideline catch by WR Benardo Hermisillo from American QB Matt Dorman. However after an unfortunate injury Dorman found himself on the sideline as Bernardo took the helm. After an exchange of punts, Derby stepped up a gear, opening the scorecard with a three yard sweep by tailback Simon Mann, converted by a fullback dive from Jamie Wilson. A second quarter reply by Sharks, a five yard run by wingback Olli Tiainen gave the visitors some hope, but from then on it was one way traffic. A 35 yard strike by quarterback Austin Bradshaw found wide receiver Eb Adjei in the end zone, with tail back Mann diving over for the two point conversion. Defensive pressure forced Sharks to start from their endzone, and defensive end Simon Juniper tackled the Hull tailback for a safety. An eight yard touchdown run by Mann was converted for two points by a fullback Onyebuchi Ebo.
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