Did the Reds dazzle the Blues? Did the Blues shine once more?

           

Report By Laura Moore

30^th May was the second Diamond meeting for BAFA and the Women’s programme. Leeds was the place to be and the venue at West Park Rugby Club was soaked in sunshine to welcome the ladies.

The morning saw all players put through their paces, carrying out some basics and drills to showcase their talents. Still new players continue to be drawn to the sport and some of these girls can really play. Those seats to Spain are up for grabs and the ladies are fighting hard.

With the red team and blue teams announced it was time to do battle. Great Britain Women’s Head Coach – Jim Messenger took upon the role of referee which gave him opportunity to hear what actually goes off in the huddle away from the side line and I think he was pleased at what he witnessed. The players are now really understanding what it is to play football and able to notice adjustments and issues making slight alterations to combat each other.

The game saw a fast start for the reds who continued to build a lead during the first two quarters with some slick play and an O Line looking devastating with some great blocking to release the running backs. The blues started to find their feet towards the end of the 2^nd quarter and shut down the red running game. A tough talk from blues head coach for the day – Gareth Ellison gave the blue team a renewed vigour for the second half of the game and indeed it was the blue team that began to deliver with some fantastic offensive running and the defense tough approach knocking the reds back. The reds were not to be defeated though and took to the passing game to move them down the field. The game finished with the blue team pressurising but today was not going to be their day. Reds victorious to bring the Diamond series to 1-1 setting up what most neutrals would want a decider in Hatfield on the 13^th June.

If you want to get involved look up via Facebook BAFA Women’s American Football - get yourself involved with the next event at Hatfield on June 13^th and maybe you could be going to Spain this summer.