19th December 2001 - Scottish Flag Football Association announce 2002 league structure

The SFFA have announced a 7-team league season for 5 on 5 Senior Flag Football in Scotland in 2002. The season will run from January 13th to June 10th. The teams that will compete are: Broncos, Wolves, Cougars, Weagies, Baldies, Panthers and the Stampede.

16th December 2001 - Sundevils take the Bournemouth 5 on 5 senior flag challenge trophy

The Southern Sundevils won the Bournemouth Raiders 5 on 5 challenge tournament, with a 4-0 record. Bournrmouth Raiders and the Southern Sundevils were both 3-0 going into a decider at the end of the round-robin style tournament. Sundevils took the win 22-6 and the title.

Southern Sundevils 2001 Beach Bowl champions

In bitterly cold weather, the Southern Sundevils won the Bournemouth Raiders5 on 5 challenge tournament, finishing the round-robin tournament with fourwins out of four. They opened the tournament with a stern test against theLeicester Eagles but emerged 26-19 victors. Further victories followed against Sussex Thunder and the Birmingham Raiders.

The Bournemouth Raiders opened their account with a 25-12 win against the Birmingham for Raiders bragging rights. Brad Smith threw 2 TD passes and ran for one himself, and Matt Heasman connected on a bomb to Tim Smith to ease Bournemouth to the win.

Matt Hemsley of the Bournemouth Raiders attempts to make an interception in the game vs. Birmingham Raiders

Bournemouth followed this up with very closely fought games with Leicester (13-12) and North Devon Dogs (18-14). In both games Bournemouth stopped the opposition on the 1 yard line on the last plays of the game. Daniel Nehorai and Lee Eatly making the crucial tackles respectively. Mark Elliott and Ryan McKeon deserve special mention with a number of crucial tackles in those games.

With Sundevils and the Bournemouth Raiders 3-0, this set up a crucial winner-take-all encounter for the trophy. Sundevils lost a player early on to injury, and as the game restarted took the lead on the very next play. The BSL side scored a crucial second score soon after to move 14-0 ahead.The Raiders got back into the game on a Brad Smith run, but Kirk O'Fieldfired his third TD of the game to give the Sundevils the win 20-6 and the trophy.The Brockenhurst Exiles excelled - considering they are a BYAFA affiliated side. Helped by their three England U-19 Internationals (Pete McDougal, Tom Ruston and John Halling), they defeated 3 senior sides and only missed out on second place on points difference. The Leicester Eagles finished with a 2-2 record, and were most unlucky in their game against Bournemouth which ended with Daniel Nehorai's tackle on the 1 yard line to prevent the Eagles taking the win on the last play of the game.

The North Devon Dogs, who had left Barnstable at 5.30am to attend the tournament, also finished with a 2-2 record. Their two defeats (against Brockenhurst and Bournemouth) were by 2 and 4 point margins. Their aerial presence was a threat to all teams all day.

The Birmingham Raiders put points on every team, but a still looking for that elusive first win. They might have managed it in their last game against Brockenhurst, but the Exiles scored a TD on the last drive of the game, and scored the crucial 2 PAT as time expired to take the game 20-19.

Sussex Thunder showed tremendous spirit all day, as Gary Whitfield's team look to start building towards forming a new senior kitted side in Brighton. They put in a great performance against the Southern Sundevils in their first game going down 26-12, and also in their last game against the North Devon Dogs which they lost 16-7 after leading 7-0 for much of the game.

All in all a tremendous day of flag football, which is hoped to be repeated at some stage in the near future.

Final table:

SOUTHERN SUNDEVILS 4-0
BOURNEMOUTH RAIDERS 3-1
BROCKENHURST EXILES 3-1
LEICESTER EAGLES 2-2
NORTH DEVON DOGS 2-2
BIRMINGHAM RAIDERS 0-4
SUSSEX THUNDER 0-4

If you would like more info on senior flag then visit the BSFL website at http://website.lineone.net/~bsfl/Homepage.htm or e-mailseniorflag@hotmail.com

The results are listed below.

Bournemouth Raiders 25-12 Birmingham Raiders
Leicester Eagles 19-26 Southern Sundevils
Sussex Thunder 12-26 Southern Sundevils
Brockenhurst Exiles 14-12 North Devon Dogs
Brockenhurst Exiles 28-8 Sussex Thunder
Bournemouth Raiders 13-12 Leicester Eagles
Birmingham Raiders 8-30 Southern Sundevils
North Devon Dogs 14-18 Bournemouth Raiders
Leicester Eagles 28-0 Sussex Thunder
Birmingham Raiders 6-38 North Devon Dogs
Brockenhurst Exiles 0-26 Leicester Eagles
Bournemouth Raiders 6-22 Southern Sundevils
Sussex Thunder 7-16 North Devon Dogs
Brockenhurst Exiles 20-19 Birmingham Raiders

Johnny Stevenson of the North Devon Dogs tries to evade the Bournemouth Raiders defense

14th December 2001 - Bournemouth Raiders hosting 5 on 5 senior flag tournament this Sunday

The Bournemouth Raiders 5 on 5 challenge tournament is to be played at Meyrick Park in Bournemouth this Sunday. Seven sides have entered the tournament, and it promises it be a great event (and a cold one judging by the weather forecast). The Sussex Thunder will be entering a tournament for the first time since the 2000 senior kitted season, as they aim to take steps back to joining the senior kitted ranks. Their neighbours, the Southern Sundevils, will also be fielding a side. Those two will be favourites, but accomplished senior flag sides like the Leicester Eagles, North Devon Dogs and the hosts Bournemouth Raiders will be equally confident. The tournament entrants are made up with the Birmingham Raiders and the Brockenhurst Exiles. The tournament will start at 11.30am with a clash of the Raiders as Bournemouth take on Birmingham. Here is the full fixture list:

11.30am - Bournemouth Raiders vs. Birmingham Raiders (pitch 1)
11.30am - Leicester Eagles vs. Southern Sundevils (pitch 2)
12.05pm - Sussex Thunder vs. Southern Sundevils (pitch 1)
12.05pm - Brockenhurst Exiles vs. North Devon Dogs (pitch 2)
12.40pm - Brockenhurst Exiles vs. Sussex Thunder (pitch 1)
12.40pm - Bournemouth Raiders vs. Leicester Eagles (pitch 2)
1.15pm - Birmingham Raiders vs. Southern Sundevils (pitch 1)
1.15pm - North Devon Dogs vs. Bournemouth Raiders (pitch 2)
1.50pm - Leicester Eagles vs. Sussex Thunder (pitch 1)
1.50pm - Birmingham Raiders vs. North Devon Dogs (pitch 2)
2.25pm - Brockenhurst Exiles vs. Leicester Eagles (pitch 1)
2.25pm - Bournemouth Raiders vs. Southern Sundevils (pitch 2)
2.50pm - Sussex Thunder vs. North Devon Dogs (pitch 1)
2.50pm - Brockenhurst Exiles vs. Birmingham Raiders (pitch 2)
3.25pm - Final

All teams to play 4 games of 30 minutes duration. Table to be decided on win/lose percentage. Teams tied on percentage to be separated by result between the teams and where teams have not played each other to be separated by points scored and then points differential. Top two sides in the table to playoff for the trophy

3rd December 2001 - Baldies take Scottish Senior Flag tournament win

After a summer that has seen numbers in flag football increase all over Scotland it was the turn of the seniors of the game to begin competitive action.Several players returned to the game after years away to compete in a challenge event in Dundee on Sunday.

The tournament saw Dundee Hurricannes, Edinburgh Wolves,Edinburghs Auld Pros, East Kilbride Baldies and host club Dundee Storm compete against each other. The group games saw all the teams play each other and there was really very little in some of the games, but the Wolves secured a spot in the final against the undefeated Baldies from East Kilbride. Although the teams were tiring after four successive games they put all their efforts into a competitive final.

Edinburgh, defeated by East Kilbride in a group game, were in determined mood and were holding the game at 12-12 until late in the game, but the Baldies scored with under two minutes left to secure the trophy with a 19-12 victory.

East Kilbride captain Graham Whyte was quoted as saying "his team were delighted with the competitive nature of the event but also delighted that there had been a fun element throughout the day and he was looking forward to similiar events throughout the country"

23rd November 2001 - Drimnagh Cycos want to host you

The Drimnagh Cyocs Senior Flag football team are asking for teams to visit them and play in Dublin, so if your team fancy a weekend in Dublin next year then contact Liam Farrell on 00-353-1-8688321 or at flag_football@ireland.com

23rd November 2001 - Leicester Eagles website

The Leicester Eagles have a new website and can be located at the following URL:

http://www.leicester-eagles.freeserve.co.uk/

9th November 2001 - First Scottish Senior Flag tournament organised

The first tournament of the SFFA senior flag league is taking shape with  four teams confirming there attendance already already
Dundee Storm are to host the tournament with newcomers East Kilbride Baldies, Edinburgh Wolves and Clarkston Stampede all confirming their intentions for the season. Contact Charlie Campbell at cd.campbell@breathemail.net for more info.

23rd September 2001 - British Senior Flag League Finals

The London Gators proved themselves the BSFL's best team in 2001, as they maintained their unbeaten record by clinching the BSFL trophy Sunday with two hard fought victories. QB Brett Barash was again their star throwing for 5 TD's and running for another himself on the day,  in the Gators 22-8 semi-final win over the defending champion Fen Harriers and then in the 22-14 win over Canterbury in the final. The Canterbury Coyotes (in their first season in the league) did themselves proud, as they made it a Southern Conference one-two, after walloping the Northern Conference champion team UCLA Renegades 34-0 in the other semi-final.

Semi-Final 1 - London Gators 22-8 Fen Harriers

The London Gators, the only undefeated side in the BSFL in 2001,  took on the defending champion Fen Harriers in an eagerly awaited clash of styles. The Harriers with an effective ground game up against the aerial attack Gators offense led by QB Brett Barash.

The Gators came out passing, as expected, with Barash throwing a brace of TD's early on to WR's Mike Keefe and Todd Johnstone. Barash then ran for another himself as the Gators built up an impressive lead. The Harriers responded with a Martin Brown strike to Gordon Wright (Wright also added the 2 PAT kick) to pull themselves back into the game before half-time.

The Harriers' defense managed to shutdown the Gators in the second half with some excellent coverage and good defensive line pressure, but the damage had been done early on, and the Gators held onto their 22-8 lead for the remainder of the game.

Semi-Final 2 - UCLA Renegades 0-34 Canterbury Coyotes

The Northern Conference champions, UCLA Renegades took on the Southern Conference runners-up Canterbury Coyotes, in a game that was expected to be very tight. In the event, the Coyotes impressive offense (led competently by QB Dan Dart) scored four rushing TD's, as they blew away the Renegades in what turned out to be an easy victory.

The Coyotes opened with a 62 yard run from HB Bob Kalman, and the Coyotes soon took a 6-0 lead on Dan Dart's 1 yard run. The UCLA Renegades responded with an impressive drive, but a crucial sack on 3rd and 10 in the Coyotes red zone by LB James Robson held the Renegades at bay. The Coyotes extended their lead to 12-0 just before half-time on a 17 yard pass to WR Colin Hubbuck from Dart.

After the interval, a 15 yard TD run by Kalman extended the Coyotes lead to 18, and then TB Glenn Lindley's 9-yard run eased the Coyotes to an unassailable 26-0 lead (with the 2 PAT being added on a Jack Garnsey catch from Dart).

Despite the tremendous efforts of the Renegades QB Matt Dean, they just couldn't move the ball effectively enough, as the Coyotes impressive defensive line tightened their grip, with DE's Rory O'Toole grabbing two second half sacks.

Stuart Skinner wrapped up the scoring for the Coyotes on a 14 yard run, with Hubbuck grabbing the 2 PAT pass from Dart, to make the final score 34-0.

Coyotes WR Colin Hubbuck about to score the final points of the semi-final vs UCLA

BSFL Final - London Gators 22-14 Canterbury Coyotes

In a cracking final, it was the Gators who edged the Coyotes for the BSFL title with a 22-14 win. In a hard fought first half, it was the Gators who went in at the break leading 8-0 through Brett Barash's TD strike to Mike Keefe.

After the break, the Coyotes struck. Dan Dart fired a 10 yard scoring pass to Glenn Lindley, and Jack Garnsey caught the 2 PAT from Dart to level things up at 8-8. The crucial phase of the match followed straight after as the Gators responded with their impressive passing attack. Two TD's on successive drives put just enough distance between the sides. Firstly Barash linked up with Todd Johnstone for a score, and then with Gary Crock on a post pattern as they moved into a 22-8 lead with two minutes to go.

Gators WR Gary Crock makes a diving TD catch for the clinching third score against the Coyotes in the final

With time running out, the Coyotes made one final attempt to close the gap. Colin Hubbuck's 60 yard catch and run moved the Coyotes to the Gators 11 yard line, and on the next play Dan Dart connected with Hubbuck again to close the gap to 22-14 as time expired.
 

London Gators with the BSFL 2001 trophy
Photos: BritballNow

19th September 2001 - British Senior Flag League review and details for the finals

The British Senior Flag League reaches it's climax this Sunday, with it's finals day at Coldham's Common in Cambridge. Four teams will contest the right to be crowned the British Senior Flag League champions for 2001. The teams competing on Sunday are the London 
Gators, Canterbury Coyotes, UCLA Renegades and the reigning champion Fen Harriers.

The format for the day is that the first semi-final between London Gators and the Fen Harriers will kick-off at 11am. The second semi-final between the UCLA Renegades and the Canterbury Coyotes will follow immediately after the first one ends. The final will be played later in the afternoon.

The 2001 BSFL season has been a tremendous success. After a disappointing 2000 when no league season was actually played due to the small amount of 'active teams', the decision was taken to go with a league at the AGM in January, in 2001 with games being played on a tournament basis during a summer season. Advertising was stepped up and when the league started in March, there were nine teams entered in the competition.

New teams from Bournemouth, Canterbury, London, Orpington, Birmingham all joined the league that already contained the established clubs of  UCLA, Leicester, Fen and Sheffield. The London Gators posted an early warning sign to the rest of the league that they meant business as they dismantled the Leicester Eagles 30-0 in their very first game in Bournemouth in March. The Bournemouth Raiders, playing their first games since 1992, lost their first flag game 16-6 to Leicester, and then posted 20 points on the London Gators, but conceded 48! Canterbury Coyotes played their first league games in April, and won their opening game 14-12 against another new team, Hurricanes. In dreadful conditions, the Coyotes succumbed 30-0 to the London Gators (who defeated Hurricanes 14-0).

Bournemouth jumped into the Southern Conference playoff race with a last minute 14-8 home win against Canterbury, but successive defeats to London (26-0) and crucially Canterbury 22-6 (on the last game of the southern conference season) cost them. Canterbury and London fought out a thrilling 14-14 tie to thwart London's attempts for a perfect season, but they still took the conference title, with Canterbury finishing a deserved second.

The first result in the Northern Conference to raise eye-brows was UCLA Renegades 14-12 home victory over the defending champion, Fen 
Harriers. Matt Dean's 66 yard bomb to Chris Henry proving the difference. Fen Harriers responded by winning the tournament hosted by the Birmingham Raiders. They defeated the Raiders (who were playing again after 3 seasons out) 34-0 and then defeated the Leicester Eagles 30-15. Leicester themsurprisingly defeated UCLA 26-0, but a 40-8 loss to the Harriers severely dented their playoff ambitions. Even more so when UCLA got the better of the Sheffield Lightning twice to finish with a 5-1 record, and take the conference championship. Leicester defeated Fen Harriers 8-0 on the final day of the season, but the Harriers 28-6 win over Sheffield clinched a semi-final spot in the playoffs at Leicester's expense.

If anyone wants more info on the BSFL then visit the league website at http://website.lineone.net/~bsfl/Homepage.htm

The BSFL have produced a 12 page colour programme for the finals. If anyone wants one then contact the league atseniorflag@hotmail.com

27th August 2001 - British Senior Flag League 5 on 5 tournament

The West Coast Offence, from Glasgow, travelled to Belgrave RFC in Leicester to take part in a 4-team 5 on 5 tournament, and they returned north with the trophy after winning 5 of their 6 games. In a great day of football, the winner of the whole tournament (played on a league basis with each team playing 6 games) wasn't decided until the very last game of the day, with the Offence defeating the Leicester Eagles 7-6 in a winner-takes-all match. The North Devon Dogs (playing their first games of flag football) were very competitive and defeated Leicester early on in the tournament, and the Birmingham Raiders were similar competitive scoring over 50 points on the day. The results from the day are listed below:


West Coast Offense - BSFL 5 on 5 champions, 2001
Photo courtesy of Andrew Wallace

Leicester Eagles 19 Birmingham Raiders 0
North Devon Dogs 14 West Coast Offence 20
Leicester Eagles 14 North Devon Dogs 15
Birmingham Raiders 0 West Coast Offence 12
West Coast Offence 12 Leicester Eagles 18
Birmingham Raiders 14 North Devon Dogs 18
North Devon Dogs 0 West Coast Offence 32
Leicester Eagles 26 Birmingham Raiders 12
Leicester Eagles 27 North Devon Dogs 12
Birmingham Raiders 14 West Coast Offence 19
Birmingham Raiders 18 North Devon Dogs 32
West Coast Offence 7 Leicester Eagles 6

PYD

W

L

PF

PA

PTS

West Coast Offence

6

5

1

102

52

10

Leicester Eagles

6

4

2

110

58

8

North Devon Dogs

6

3

3

91

125

6

Birmingham Raiders

6

0

6

58

126

0

North Devon Dogs (orange shirts) in action against the West Coast Offense in the BSFL 5 on 5 tournament
Photo courtesy of Andrew Wallace

20th August 2001 - BSFL Week 10 results

Fen Harriers 0-6 Leicester Eagles
Leicester Eagles 44-0 Sheffield Lightning
Fen Harriers 28-6 Sheffield Lightning

Fen Harriers 0-8 Leicester Eagles

In the final set of regular season games in the BSFL 2001 season, the Fen Harriers knew that a win in their opening game against the Leicester Eagles would be enough for them to seal second spot in the Northern Conference, and hence a place in the BSFL semi-finals. After defeating the Eagles twice already in 2001, they were confident of doing it again. In a first half dominated by defense, the Eagles registering 3 sacks by Craig Danks, Chris Wild and Alan O'Sullivan, the teams went in at half-time at 0-0. Fen had a TD called back for offside and Leicester had two TD's called backed, one for holding and one for an ineligible lineman downfield. In the second half, Leicester scored on a QB keeper by Chris Wild with Craig Broughton adding 2 points with a kick to go 8-0 up. Leicester had a further two sacks from Rich Manning, a second sack by Alan O'Sullivan and an interception by James Hossack as their defense stiffened to prevent the Harriers getting back in the match. The game ended in torrential rain and a thunder storm with the Eagles defense holding firm against a Fen Harriers offense that threw everything at them.

Leicester Eagles 44 Sheffield Lightning 0

The Eagles gave themselves a chance of finishing second in the conference, with a comprehensive 44-0 victory against the Sheffield Lightning. QB Chris Wild threw for 2 TD's (one to Craig Broughton and another to Martin Gwilliam), and ran for one himself as the Eagles eased to a comfortable win and improved their regular season record to 4-2. The Eagles other TD scorers were Craig Broughton, Rich Manning and a James Hossack TD catch from stand-in QB Marcus Gambrill. The Eagles win meant that the Fen Harriers had to win the final game of the day to take the coveted second spot in the Northern Conference.

Fen Harriers 28-6 Sheffield Lightning

The Fen Harriers duly won the final game of the day with a 28-6 victory against the Sheffield Lightning. The Harriers ground out yards on strong running, and scored 4 TD's to the Lightning's 1. The Harriers finished the regular season with a 4-2 record, but clinched second spot with a better win/lose percentage in games played between themselves and Leicester Eagles (Fen won 2 games out of 3). The Lightning finished with a 2-4 record.

The BSFL finals day will be held on Sunday 23rd September at Coldham'sCommon in Cambridge (11am start), and the semi-finals and final will all be played on the day. The semi-finals will be: LONDON GATORS vs. FEN HARRIERS, UCLA RENEGADES vs. CANTERBURY COYOTES

14th August 2001 - Senior Flag: BSFL Week 10 preview

The BSFL completes it's regular season on Sunday with a 3-team tournament in Cambridge (Coldham's Common) involving the host team Fen Harriers, the Leicester Eagles and the Sheffield Lightning.

All three teams have a chance of finishing in second place in the Northern Conference, and hence a place in the BSFL finals on Sunday 23rd September. The Fen Harriers have the best chance of finishing second, and they will be favourites to do so. They only need to defeat one of the opponents on the day, and they have already beaten the Leicester Eagles twice this season. However, the Eagles/Harriers games are always a good game, and so anything could happen. The Lightning have an outside chance of upsetting the odds. They have to win both games, and then rely on the Eagles defeating the Harriers.

6th August 2001 - Senior flag: Gators take Southern Conference. Canterbury snatch second from Bournemouth

The London Gators took the Southern Conference of the BSFL with a decisive 26-0 home victory over the Bournemouth Raiders on Sunday at Twickenham Rugby Club. They were then almost shocked against the Canterbury Coyotes in game 2, as they came from 14-6 behind with two minutes to go to force a 12-12 tie with Brett Barash's TD pass to Rik Morgan. In the winner-take-all game, it was Canterbury who defeated Bournemouth 22-6 to take second spot in the south and a semi-final place. 

LONDON GATORS 26-0 BOURNEMOUTH RAIDERS

The Raiders went into this game with a severely depleted squad, but they came up against a London Gators team, who themselves had a number of players missing. The Raiders were confident of upsetting the form book, following their victories against Canterbury and Brockenhurst (friendly) over the previous weeks, but it was the Gators who took the lead on an option run by QB Brett Barash, on the Gators first possession. The PAT was kicked by Rik Morgan to put the Gators 8-0 up early on. The Raiders moved the ball consistently with several probing runs by RB Mark Elliott (including one for almost 40 yards), against the Gators in the first half, but they couldn't find the play to punch the ball in, as the Gators D managed to turn the ball over on downs. With a couple of minutes to go in the first half, Barash found WR Rik Morgan with a score down the left-hand touchline. The PAT was blocked, and the Gators went into the half with a 14-0 lead.

London Gators (blue) prepare to take a snap against Bournemouth Raiders
Photo: BritballNow

The Raiders came out firing in the second half, and QB Brad Smith marched his offense downfield with a number of runs (he ran for close to 100 yards in all), and a couple of passes to Stu Winship and Tim Smith. Smith. Unfortunately, for the Raiders he was intercepted near the Gators goal-line, and Barash stepped up to extend the London lead to 20-0 on another pass to Morgan. With the Raiders struggling to move the ball, London completed the scoring near the end on a pass from Barash to Allan Moffat.

LONDON GATORS 14-14 CANTERBURY COYOTES

The tone for an exiting afternoon for the Coyotes was set when SS Abdul Lawal intercepted the Gators on the games opening drive, but the Coyotes failed to capitalise as both defences controlled the game early. After punts by both teams the Coyotes put the first points on the board, proving they were for real with a long drive finishing in a ten yard Touchdown pass from QB Dan Dart to WR Colin Hubbuck. For the 2 point conversion, Dart handed off to HB Glen Lindley who swept right and executed the HB option to perfection as he threw to Hubbuck who again caught the ball in the end zone for the 2. On the next drive however the Gators big play offense led by QB Brett Barash came to life as the Kansas native hit WR Drew Simpson on a perfect fly pattern for a 50+ yard TD. However a bad snap nullified their PAT attempt and the Coyotes led 8-6 at the half. In the second half Coyotes S Luke Foster picked off a Barash pass, and the Coyotes marched downfield with a huge catch and run by HB Bob Kalman who took the team to the one-yard line. From there QB Dan Dart plunged in but a failed 2-point attempt meant the Coyotes lead was still only 1 score as they led 14-6. This proved crucial as the Gators offense proved it could do it when it counted, as following the two minute warning a Barash pass was caught in the endzone by a leaping WR Rik Morgan despite heavy coverage. The PAT from Morgan, which followed was good and the score was tied at 14 all. The Coyotes drove downfield in the last minute but were stopped short of the red zone as time expired. Both teams seemed happy to end a very hard fought game with a tie, and spirits in both camps were good following the game.

CANTERBURY COYOTES 22-6 BOURNEMOUTH RAIDERS

The stakes were high for this game with a playoff place awaiting the victors, and the Coyotes, delighted to have tied with the Gators took to the field with confidence. However, they were soon confronted with the dangerous scrambling of Raiders QB Brad Smith and were lucky to have a turnover on downs following a high shotgun snap. However , the Bournemouth defence stood just as strong, with Stu Winship and Lee Eatly picking up sacks, and the Coyotes soon punted. On the Raiders next drive however, FS Jason Pearson intercepted and the turnover soon got the game going. The Coyotes ensuing drive was characterised by the running game as HB Bob Kalman weaved through the Raiders' D on several plays till the Coyotes reached the Goaline. It was fellow HB Glen Lindley who took it in from the 1, and another solid throw from QB Dan Dart to WR Colin Hubbuck making the score 8-0. On the Raiders next drive CB Tom Arnold intercepted Brad Smith and returned it to midfield. Again the Coyotes cashed in on the turnover as Dart beautifully hit WR "Honest" Mike Whitby on a fly for the 30 yard score. This time the 2 point attempt failed making for a 14-0 half time lead for the Coyotes.

Canterbury (purple) on offense vs. Bournemouth
Photo: BritballNow

The Raiders though never gave up and Smith continued to push his team deep into Coyotes territory with a combination of his trademark scrambling and some great catches by WR Tim Smith. Again sadly, points eluded the Raiders as Jason Pearson's 2nd interception killed this promising drive, this one a leaper in the Coyotes' end zone . Once the Coyotes offense took the field HB Stuart "Tin Tin" Skinner burst around right tackle and ripped the sideline for a 70 yard score. The Dart to Whitby combination worked again on a slant for the 2 pointer and the Coyotes had a comfortable lead of 22-0. The Raiders, to their credit, then controlled the ball for the rest of the game on a mammoth 15 minute drive, which ended with back-up QB Matt Heasman stepping in and hitting Tim Smith for a score on a quickout on 4^th down. The conversion failed giving the final score of 22-6 and the game was decided. The Coyotes can now look forward to the playoffs and a semi-final meeting with UCLA Renegades; their draw with the Gators proving they can play with the best as the Gators had only won up to this point. All three teams enjoyed the afternoon and good sportsmanship thankfully prevailed as a great afternoon of football was enjoyed by all.

4th August 2001 - New forum for Senior Flag

There is a forum for Senior Flag football in the UK. It can be located at http://website.lineone.net/~bsfl/Homepage.htm

1st August 2001 - Senior Flag: BSFL Week 9 preview

The London Gators host a three-team tournament on Sunday which also involves the Bournemouth Raiders and the Canterbury Coyotes. The fixtures will complete the Southern Conference regular season and the two semi-finalists from the South will then be known.

The Gators (4-0) are in pole position to take the Southern Conference, and only need to win one of their two games on the day to win the title. Led by star QB Brett Barash they will be expected to win both of their games comfortably. The Bournemouth Raiders against Canterbury Coyotes game is the crunch game on the day. The Raiders (3-1) are in the better position at present, courtesy of a 14-8 home victory against the Coyotes (2-2) three weeks ago. The Coyotes know that a win by 7 points or more will be enough for them to leapfrog the Raiders in the table and finish second. If they don't it will be the Raiders who qualify.

The tournament is at Twickenham Rugby Club and kicks-off at 1pm. Schedule for the day: London Gators vs. Bournemouth Raiders 1pm, London Gators vs.Canterbury Coyotes 2.30pm, Canterbury Coyotes vs. Bournemouth Raiders 4pm.

25th July 2001 - British Senior Flag League re-launch website

The BSFL have re-launched their website, and can now be found at http://website.lineone.net/~bsfl/Homepage.htm

23rd July 2001 - UCLA Renegades take the Northern Conference title

As the Birmingham Raiders announced that they were unable to continue playing in the league this season, this meant that only UCLA Renegades and Sheffield Lightning would be attending the Northern Conference tournament in Boston, Lincolnshire. Both teams had a legitimate shot at winning the Northern Conference so there was all to play for. Both sides agreed to play their two league games Sunday now that Birmingham had withdrawn from the competition.

GAME 1 - UCLA RENEGADES 28-14 SHEFFIELD LIGHTNING

Both sides came fired up and ready to play in this crucial Northern Conference game and it wasn't long before the deadlock was broken as UCLA quarterback Matt Dean found Warren Brown from 18 yards out to put the home side ahead. Kerslake grabbed the two point conversion. Sheffield found their form on the following possession and key fourth down completions by quarterback Pastorelli kept their drive alive. On fourth and goal, Pastorelli unloaded under pressure to running back Gareth Naylor who weaved through UCLA defenders to score from 19 yards out. With the attempted conversion unsuccessful UCLA still had a two point advantage. UCLA responded with a strong drive that lead to Dean finding Kerslake from 10 yards out to extend the lead. The conversion pass was incomplete. Both teams had trouble finding their feet in the second quarter until inside the final two minutes where Sheffield began to move the ball at will. A UCLA defensive stand looked on the cards until on the final play of the half Pastorelli unleased a 43-yard bomb to Paul Oates who caught the ball between two UCLA defenders and reached the endzone. The successful conversion (again from Pastorelli to Oates) meant the scores were tied at 14-14 at the half. UCLA found their feet in the second half and set their wheels in motion as a well executed drive led to Kerslake scoring from 10-yards out and catching the conversion. With good defensive work from Grooby and MacDonald prevented Sheffield from advancing the ball, the scoring was completed when Warren Brown caught a touchdown pass from Dean to leave the score at 28-14.

GAME 2 - UCLA RENEGADES 62-14 SHEFFIELD LIGHTNING

A win for UCLA would secure the Northern Conference title and a 44 point first half helped them on their way to secure the Northern crown.

The scoring opened on the first possession when Fullback Darren Cocayne raced 65-yards for the opening score. Saftey Piers Angove was the next to score after catching an interception in his own endzone he sprinted the full 100 yards to score with Dean scoring the two to leave it 14-0 after the opening quarter. Another Angove interception was returned to the Sheffield six where running back Mark Kerr added another touchdown from 6 yards out and Jim Blach added the two. On the next UCLA possession some good blocking from Blach created a hole for Kerr to jinx his way to a 67-yard touchdown with Kerslake adding two. Warren Brown who displaying his skills at receiver switched to cornerback where he returned interceptions for touchdowns on back to back plays firstly returning the ball 35 yards for a touchdown converted by Kerslake and then returning one 40 yards without conversion leaving UCLA with a commanding 44-0 halftime lead. In the second half, the pace of  the game slowed, yet the quality of football was still there and the scoring still continued as Dean scampered in from 11 yards out. Sheffield swiftly
replied to the score with Adam Kettlewell swepping to the left and then dodging UCLA defenders to score from 40-yards out. With UCLA still effectively moving the ball Darren Cocayne scored his second touchdown of the day from 30 yards out.

Sheffield returned to their highly efficient passing attack and scored when Oates grabbed a 30-yard reception from Pastorelli. The scoring was complete when Head Coach and Tight End Mark Cleaver caught a pass and rumbled 65-yards to make the final score 62-14 and UCLA the Northern Conference champions. Sheffield drop to 2-2 on the season, whereas UCLA finish with a 5-1 regular season record. UCLA will meet the second placed Southern Conference side in the semi-finals in September.

The final Northern Conference fixtures are on August 12th, when the Fen Harriers (3-1) attempt to secure the second Northern Conference berth when they host the Sheffield Lightning (2-2) and Leicester Eagles (2-2). All three sides are still in the race for second spot.

The next fixtures in the BSFL are on August 5th, when the final Southern Conference games are played. London Gators (4-0) host a three-team tournament involving Bournemouth Raiders (3-1) and Canterbury Coyotes (2-2).

19th July 2001 - BSFL Week 8 preview

The UCLA Renegades (3-1) host the Sheffield Lightning in a double-header in week 8 of the BSFL this Sunday. The Renegades, who are currently second in the Northern Conference, will clinch the Northern Conference with two victories. They opened their season with a surprise 14-12 home victory over the reigning champion Fen Harriers in May, but followed that up with an even more surprising 26-0 defeat against Leicester Eagles in June.

Sheffield (2-0) currently lead the Northern Conference, but their position is a false one. Both of their victories came from forfeit wins against
Birmingham. The Lightning, therefore, will be making their first appearance of the 2001 season Sunday, and will be looking to perform better than the last time they played the Renegades when they lost 22-0 in October 2000. If Sheffield can upset the odds then they will throw the whole Northern Conference up for grabs.

19th July 2001 - Hurricanes & Birmingham Raiders withdraw from the BSFL for rest of season

The Hurricanes and the Birmingham Raiders have both pulled out of the BSFL for the remainder of the 2001 BSFL season. Both clubs cited a shortage of players due to injuries. Their remaining fixtures will be awarded as 12-0 forfeit wins to their opponents. Birmingham were 0-2, after being shut-out of their first two games of the season by Leicester Eagles and Fen Harriers. Hurricanes were also 0-2, after a narrow 14-12 defeat to Canterbury Coyotes in week 2, and a 14-0 loss to the London Gators. Both sides intend to return to the BSFL next year.

15th July 2001 - Bournemouth Raiders pip Canterbury Coyotes

BOURNEMOUTH RAIDERS 14-8 CANTERBURY COYOTES

A depleted Bournemouth Raiders side moved to 3-1 on the season with a heart-stopping 14-8 home victory against the similarly under-strength Canterbury Coyotes side at Brockenhurst College. The key to the Raiders victory was an interception count of 8 to 1 in their favour, but it still needed a TD with just over 2 minutes to go to beat off the strong challenge of the team from Kent.

After the teams traded punts on their opening possessions, it was the Raiders who took the lead after 5 minutes on Brad Smith's 65 yard pass to WR Tim Smith. Smith still had work to do but weaved past a number of defenders with a blistering turn of pace. The 2 PAT failed, and the Raiders were 6-0 up. This was a lead they held onto half-time as both sides defenses's held firm.

The Raiders tried to keep it tight at the start of the second half, but it was the Coyotes who exploded out of the blocks and took the lead on a long range pass following a pump fake from Richard Mayhew to their star WR Abdul. The 2 PAT was added to put the Coyotes 8-6 up. The Coyotes proceeded to take control of the game, and it was only Bournemouth's impressive defense that prevented them from going further behind. Interceptions by Tim Smith (3), Brad Smith, Matt Heasman, Allen Gilbert and Warren Rees all stopped Canterbury drives in their tracks.

The crucial passage in the game occurred with just 4 minutes remaining. The Coyotes #81 Abdul sprinted clear of the Bournemouth D and appeared to be heading for the winning score for the Coyotes, but a diving tackle by Warren Rees stopped him on Bournemouth's 5 yard-line. The Raiders defense held out impressively with Lee Eatly's goal-line stop of the Coyotes Richard Mayhew a huge play, and Brad Smith's interception in the corner of the endzone getting the ball back for the Raiders.

With the ball turned over and with 3 minutes on the clock, Brad Smith connected with Tim Smith on a 80-yard TD to get the Raiders out of jail.

Tim Smith makes the catch on Bournemouth clinching TD

The Smith combination worked again on the 2 PAT to give the Raiders a 14-8 advantage with 2 minutes to play. The Coyotes attempted one final drive to win the game, but a second interception of the game by Brad Smith ended their chances. The Coyotes drop to 2-2, but still can make the semi-finals. They have to defeat the Bournemouth Raiders by 7 points in their decider on August 5th. If they don't it will be the Raiders who qualify.

The tournament was hosted by the Brockenhurst Exiles, who played Canterbury and Bournemouth in friendly matches. Canterbury defeated them 26-6, and 
Bournemouth defeated them 34-0.

Week 8 of the BSFL season is this weekend (22nd July), and is hosted by the UCLA Renegades. They take on Birmingham Raiders and the Sheffield Lightning 
in a three-team tournament in Boston, Lincolnshire.

16th July 2001 - Independence Bowl 2 report - Dundee Whalers take senior honours

Sunday saw Dundee Storm conclude their annual Independence Bowl tournament. A selection of the top clubs in Scotland kicked off in torrential rain in the competition now in its second year. In the senior section the play was of the highest standard with host club Dundee Storm reaching the final undefeated to play veterans of Dundees ex-senior side, the Whalers.The Storm were favourites going into the game but after teams had traded scores for most of the game the Whalers eventually edged into a clear lead and ran out shock 49-34 winners.

12th July 2001 - BSFL Week 7 preview

The Bournemouth Raiders host the Canterbury Coyotes in a crucial match in week 7 of the British Senior Flag League next weekend. Both teams appear very evenly matched on the form, and whichever team wins will be in pole position for 2^nd place in the southern conference, and as such a place in the national semi-finals.

The Raiders (0-1) will be playing their first games since March 4^th, when they opened their season with a 48-20 home defeat against the current conference leaders, the unbeaten London Gators (4-0). The Coyotes lost 0-30 to the Gators in week 2 of the BSFL season, so this has the makings of a close game. They have yet to meet each other in the league

The game will be played at Brockenhurst College in the New Forest, with a 1pm kick-off.

10th July 2001 - Drimnagh thrash Leicester 49-6 in Senior Flag challenge match

Saturday 7th July 2001 saw the Drimnagh Cycos host the Leicester Eagles in the fifth Anglo-Irish Shield Flag Football Challenge. This was the third visit of the Eagles to Ireland and they were seeking revenge for the victory Drimnagh achieved in Leicester last May. The history of this game saw the Cycos go into the game with three wins against the Eagles one. Although the sun did not appear it was still warm, making it great conditions for the game.

The game got underway with the Eagles receiving the opening kick-off. Although their Offense began by moving the ball well, the Cycos defense eventually got to grips with them and the Eagles went four-and-out. Drimnagh took over and it was soon apparent that QB Aidan Kelly and WR Liam Farrell were on fire. A quick drive was capped by a long winding run by Aidan for the first TD of the match. The one point conversion was successful, Kelly hitting Farrell in the back of the Endzone. This resulted in a worrying knee injury to Farrell, fortunately for the Cycos he managed to recover.

The Eagles second drive proved more successful with a steady march up the field. An inch perfect pass from Chris Wild to Craig Broughton at the front corner of the Endzone capped the drive. The Cycos managed to prevent the conversion from being scored to maintain a one-point lead. This was to prove the only score the Cycos would concede, although both Craig Broughton and James Hossack provided plenty of trouble to the Cycos secondary.

The next two Cyco possessions were capped with touchdown passes from Kelly to Farrell. Neither attempted conversion was successful. Between these two drives Aidan Kelly had managed to intercept the Eagles. With the score at 19-6 the Cycos got their fourth score of the game in the form of a run from Stephen Dunne. He capped this by making a catch for the two-point conversion.

The next score completed a hat-trick of Touchdown passes from Kelly to Farrell. Once again Stephen Dunne added the two-point conversion. The Cycos defense got in on the scoring when Liam Farrell returned an interception for a Touchdown for the next score. Iain McGuinness make the catch for the two point conversion.

An interception by Iain McGuinness on the Eagles next drive set up the Cycos final dive, which ended in another Touchdown run by Aidan Kelly. On the defensive line both Cameron Cramer and Darren Brady picked up a sack each during the game, while Mike Costall and Marcus Gambrill did likewise for the Eagles.

At the presentation of the Anglo-Irish Shield after the game, Aidan Kelly was given MVP for the Cycos and James Hossack was given MVP for the Eagles. 

Article courtesy of www.iafs.co.uk

6th July 2001 - Leicester Eagles travel to Dublin for senior flag international challenge match

The Leicester Eagles, who are currently 2^nd in the BSFL Northern Conference, travel to Dublin this weekend for their annual fixture against the Drimnagh Cycos. This will be the fifth meeting between the two teams, and the Cycos go into the game with a 3 to 1 lead. Neither team had managed to win away from home in the series, until May of this year, when the Cycos recorded the biggest win in their history when they defeated the Eagles 12-8 at Belgrave Rugby Club in Leicester. This win for the Cycos, spices things up for this weekend's game.

6th July 2001 - London Gators defeat Fen Harriers in senior flag friendly

Due to the absence of Hurricanes from the planned 3-team tournament in Cambridge, the London Gators travelled north to take on the Fen Harriers in a clash of the current BSFL conference leaders. In a 9 on 9 game, Brett Barash threw TD passes to Dan Martino, Todd Johnson and gary Crock as the Gators won the game 24-0.

17th June 2001 - BSFL week 5 round-up

Fen Harriers took over at the top of the BSFL Northern Conference with a convincing 40-8 victory over the Leicester Eagles. Martin Brown threw 5 TD's as the Harriers improved to 3-1. In the other league game of the day, Leicester Eagles shutout the UCLA Renegades 26-0, the highlight being a punt return from Martyn Gambrill. Fen Harriers defeated UCLA 28-20 in a friendly.

Leicester Eagles 26-0 UCLA Renegades

Leicester took the lead early on in this crucial encounter on a 65 yard pass reception from Chris Wild to Craig Broughton. Broughton caught the ball in a short pass from Wild and raced the distance to the endzone. The Eagles were 12-0 up before half-time when RB James Stratford ran in from 10 yards out. In the second half, the Eagles kept up the pressure when they went 20-0 up on a 40 yard option pass from RB Craig Broughton to WR James Hossack. Hossack bagged the 2 PAT on a pass from QB Chris Wild. To round this off for the Eagles, Martyn Gambrill scored on a punt return to make the final score 26-0.

Leicester Eagles 8-40 Fen Harriers

The Fen Harriers improved to 3-1 on the season, and significantly enhanced their hopes of clinching the Northern conference title with a crushing 40-8 victory of second placed Leicester Eagles.

The Harriers took the lead with a TD from RB Paul Griffiths. Gordon Wright's conversion kick made the score 8-0. Shortly before half-time, the Harriers were 16-0 up. WR Nick Moffatt hauled to QB Martin Brown's pass, and Wright's kick gave the Harriers a commanding lead at the break.

In the second half, Brown threw for 3 more TD's (to Wright, Moffatt and Griffiths), to take his season's tally to a league best 13. Leicester managed to get on the scoreboard with a pass from Chris Wild to James Hossack.

In the other game of the day, the Fen Harriers defeated the UCLA Renegades 28-20 in a friendly.

For the current BSFL 2001 League standings visit: http://website.lineone.net/~bsfl/standings2001.htm

For the current BSFL 2001 leading TD scorers visit: http://website.lineone.net/~bsfl/statistics.htm

The next league games in the BSFL are on Sunday 1st July, when the London Gators take on the Hurricanes, and Sheffield Lightning host a three team tournament with Birmingham Raiders and UCLA Renegades.

5th June - BSFL Week 4 review

FEN HARRIERS 34-0 BIRMINGHAM RAIDERS

The Harriers started the first game of this three-way tournament strongly, opening the scoring early in the game with Martin Brown passing to Gordon Wright for a 21yrd TD. A solid Raiders defence held out the 2-point conversion. An interception by Andre Clarke set up Carl Smith to rush in from 7 yrds out, again the Raiders held out the 2-point conversion. The Harriers went to the air again this time Brown hit Andre Clarke down the sideline for a 28yrd TD, this time the Harriers were successful with the 2-point conversion – Jason Langridge hauling in the pass. The Half-time score 20-0.

The Harriers continued to put points on the board in a bad-tempered second half with Brown finding TE Gordon Wright in the Endzone for another TD, although Wright dropped the 2-point conversion. Carl Smith added his second when he got to the outside and scored from 12yrds out, and Andre Clarke caught the 2-point. The Raiders offense then gained some momentum, moving the ball the length of the field with good running and accurate passing. The Harriers on their own goal-line managed to hold out on the final play of the game when Chris ‘Scramanga’ Blackwood forced the QB out of the pocket and Greg Skelton came up with a sack to maintain the clean-sheet.

BIRMINGHAM RAIDERS 0-36 LEICESTER EAGLES

Birmingham went on to play the Leicester Eagles in the second game of the day. Chris Manning opened the scoring for the Eagles with a rushing score to put them 6-0 up early on. Andy Gambrill and Chris Manning (Chris Wild with the 2 PAT) also scored rushing touchdown's before half-time to put the Eagles 20-0 up at the break.

The Raiders changed their QB at half-time, but the change did little to stop the points in the second half as the Eagles scored two further TD's (by Martyn Gambrill and Craig Broughton) to win the game 36-0.

FEN HARRIERS 30-15 LEICESTER EAGLES

The Eagles took the game to the Harriers from the very first possession. The Harriers offense stalled and a short punt was returned by Craig Broughton for the score. The 2-point run attempt was tackled just short of the line. Again the Harriers offense failed to move the ball and with good field position the Eagles punched the ball in on Chris Manning's run to take a 12 point lead. The extra point was unsuccessful. The Harriers then pulled back a score when QB Martin Brown found TE Gordon Wright with a 30yrd TD pass. The Eagles kept out the 2-point attempt. On a 4th and 10, pinned deep in their own half QB Brown faked a punt and found Carl Smith down the sideline for a 25yrd gain. This set up Brown to find Andre Clarke down the sideline again to pull the scores even for the half at 12-12.

Leicester started with the ball in the second half and moved the ball deep into Harrier territory, but a strong goal-line stand lead to the Eagles having to settle for a drop goal from Broughton to put them 15-12 up. Having missed the first game with sunstroke – Harrier TB Paul Griffiths returned to the field and produced a dazzling 60yd TD run. The Harriers then extended their lead when Brown found TE Wright all alone for a 19yd TD pass. The Harriers finished strongly and put the game out of reach when Wright completed his hat-trick with another 15yd TD pass from Brown.

The next tournament of the BSFL takes place at Leicester on the 17^th of June. This tournament will involve the Leicester Eagles, Fen Harriers and the UCLA Renegades.

Many thanks to the Birmingham Raiders for putting this tournament on.

17th May 2001 - BSFL release revised fixture list

Due to the realignments in the British Senior Flag League, a revised fixture list for the 2001 season has been released. It is as follows:

June 17th - Leicester Eagles vs. UCLA Renegades, Leicester Eagles vs. Fen Harriers

July 1st - London Gators vs. Hurricanes (at Cambridge)
July 1st - Sheffield Lightning (hosts), Birmingham Raiders, UCLA Renegades

July 15th - Bournemouth Raiders (hosts), Canterbury Coyotes, Hurricanes

July 22nd - UCLA Renegades (hosts), Birmingham Raiders, Sheffield Lightning

August 5th - London Gators (hosts), Bournemouth Raiders, Canterbury Coyotes

August 12th - Leicester Eagles (hosts), Fen Harriers, Sheffield Lightning

to be arranged - Hurricanes vs. Bournemouth Raiders

September 9th - BSFL Semi Finals

September 23rd - BSFL Championship Final

13th May 2001 - Renegades sneak past the Harriers

This game signalled the beginning of the BSFL season for both teams. Both teams were not at full strength, yet the standard of football was high. It was Fen who started the game strongly, intercepting UCLA quarterback Matt Dean in his first start at quarterback to end the first UCLA drive. A similar fate struck Dean on the second position, which led to Fen taking the lead on a 42-yard catch by Jason Langridge. The conversion was unsuccessful. The UCLA team were showing strong defense and their offense was also picking up momentum. Good running from Mark Kerr and with Dean spreading the ball out accurately UCLA quickly found themselves inside the Fen 20-yard line. A nifty run by Kerr set up a 1-yard sneak for Dean to tie the scores. The conversion was unsuccessful leaving the scores tied 6-6 at the half. 

A combination of unnecessary penalties and solid defense meant that both offenses were finding it difficult to move the ball early in the third. But some quick footwork and a cool head helped Dean to launch an inch perfect bomb to Chris Henry who sprinted the rest of the 66 yards for the go ahead score. Dean found Warren Brown in the endzone for the crucial two point conversion. However the Fen offence had found rhythm and on their next drive good running and passing by Martin Brown and solid running from Griffiths resulted in the latter scoring from 6-yards out. The conversion pass fell just short leaving UCLA to use ball control to run out the clock and seal a 14-12 victory that sees them jump to the top of the Northern Conference.

13th May 2001 - Drimnagh defeat Leicester 12-8 in Senior Flag International match

The Drimnagh Cycos recorded the biggest win in their history on Saturday last when they defeated the Leicester Eagles 12-8 at Belgrave Rugby Club in Leicester.

This was the fourth meeting between the two teams and The Cycos went into the game with a 2 to 1 lead . Neither team had managed to win away from home in the series, until saturday that is and Drimnaghs victory spices up the visit of Leicester to Dublin in July. The game was played under BSFL rules (9 on 9, lineman ineligable). It was 23 degrees on gameday and as the Cycos only have a 10 man squad there were some weary legs by the end.

Drimnagh got off to a dream start when Aidan Kelly intercepted a Chris Wild pass on Leicesters second offensive play of the game. Kelly returned it 20 yards for a touchdown to put Drimnagh into a 6-0 lead. The extra point failed but Leicester soon found themselves on the back foot once more as on their next possession Wild was intercepted again this time by John Canning. However, on a fourth and goal situation the Eagles defense stood firm and tackled Cycos Running Back Stephen Dunne just short of the goal line. The Cycos had the ball back quickly and quarterback Aidan Kelly connected with Liam Farrell on a 40 yard pass to make the score 12-0. Things continued to go wrong for the Eagles and a bad snap on a punt gave the Cycos the ball at the Eagles 10 yard line. Once again however the Cycos failed to capitalise and were held on fourth down.

The second half saw boths teams struggle on Offence. The teams exchanged punts on numerous occassions. The Cycos got things going on offence again thanks to some excellent running from Stephen Dunne and James Bingham. A 25 yards run by Dunne, who eventually won Cycos MVP, set up a first down for the Cycos at the two minute warning. The Eagles got the ball back with 20 seconds on the clock but were unable to move the ball. Alan O'Sullivan received the Eagles MVP award. 

Report from www.iafs.co.uk

12th May 2001 - Four teams withdraw from BSFL

Four teams (Lakenheath Eagles, Tayside Tigers, Essex Blades and York Vikings) have withdrawn from the BSFL 2001 season. Various reasons have been given - travelling costs, failure to raise sides or failing to send in their registration forms by the required date. All will remain affiliated clubs, and hope to play in 2002. Week 3 of the BSFL continues this weekend with the UCLA Renegades hosting the reigning champion Fen Harriers. For the latest BSFL League standings click here.

30th April 2001 - London Gators improve to 4-0 after BSFL Week 2

The London Gators improved to 4-0 after week 2 of the British Senior Flag League on Sunday. In a three team tournament in Orpington, Kent, the Gators brushed aside the challenge of the Canterbury Coyotes and the host team Hurricanes with two shut out victories. In game 1, the Coyotes took on the Hurricanes and an excellent match ensued with the Coyotes edging it 14-12. Coyotes QB Dan Dart threw two TD's (one in each half) to WR Colin Hubbuck. The first a 35 yarder, and the second a 25 yarder, whilst for the Hurricanes QB John Kelleher threw 2 TD's to Brad McQueen.The clincher was Dart's 2 PAT conversion pass for one of the Coyotes TD's - again to Hubbuck. With 30 seconds of the game remaining, the Hurricanes drove to the Coyotes goal-line, but Jason Pearson picked off Dart on the 1 yard line to clinch the game for the Coyotes. Yap-Young, Duncan and McQueen all registered interceptions for the Hurricanes.

In game 2, the Coyotes took on the London Gators. The high powered Gators offense blew the Coyotes away 30-0. QB Brett Barash throwing 4 TD's in the game. 3 to Dan Martino, and a further one to Dave Baird.

In the final game of the tournament, the Hurricanes kept things close against the Gators, but eventually succumbed 14-0 with Brett Barash throwing TD passes to Gary Crock and Todd Johnstone. Week 3 of the BSFL takes place at Boston on May 13th, when the UCLA Renegades host the reigning champion Fen Harriers.

25th April 2001 - Senior flag league enters week 2 of season

The British Senior Flag League enters week 2 of it's regular season on Sunday as the newcomer Hurricanes host fellow newboys Canterbury Coyotes and the London Gators (2-0). The Gators explosive offense blew away Bournemouth Raiders and Leicester Eagles in week 1 and they will be looking to strengthen their hold on the Southern Conference with further victories on Sunday. The Hurricanes and Canterbury are both unknown quantities and will be looking to spring a surprise. The games are being played at Darrick Wood School Sports Centre, Lovibonds Avenue, Lockbottom, Orpington, Kent with the first game scheduled to start at 1.30pm.

31st March 2001 - Teams invited to European Flag Football Tournament in France

The International Flag Football Federation (IFFF), organizers of the World Cup of Flag Football, are inviting teams to participate in the European Flag Football Tournament.  The Event will be attended by the 2001 World Cup Champion Team USA and over 50 French Teams. The tournament takes place on  June 1 & 2, 2001 in Le Harve, France. The style of play is Men 9 Man Ineligible & 5 Man No Contact, Youth 15 under & 12 under and Women 7 man no contact & 5 no contact. The registration fee is 25 Euros per person and that includes tents, barbecue, breakfast, lunch, and T-shirt. If you are interested in playing in this tournament then contact the tournament organiser Guillaume Marignan at FlagOceane@aol.com

12th March 2001 - Birmingham Raiders need new players

The Birmingham Raiders have reformed to participate in the 2001 BSFL league, and are looking for players aged 16+ years, experienced or rookie, to strengthen the team. For further information log on to their site at www.birminghamraiders.co.uk

If you are interested in playing, coaching, helping out or just after more information, contact the team at info@birminghamraiders.co.uk or call Darren on 0121-7478203.

4th March 2001 - London Gators romp to two victories on opening day of the BSFL

The London Gators won their opening two fixtures of the BSFL Sunday with comprehensive victories against the howntown Bournemouth Raiders and the Leicester Eagles.

BOURNEMOUTH RAIDERS 6-16 LEICESTER EAGLES

The Raiders, who were playing their first ever game of flag football, started badly against the Eagles who were 2000 National runners-up. Leicester scored on their opening possession on a sweep through James Stratford. The 2 PAT was added by James Hassock on a pass from Chris Wild. The Raiders then went three and out, and it was the Eagles again who went down the field and scored again through QB Chris Wild. 16-0 after just 10 minutes. Bournemouth started to find their feet on defense after that, especially Marc Reeks who registered 5 sacks in the game, and went into the break with the score still at 16-0.

Eagles (purple) camped on the Bournemouth Raiders goal-line in March 2001
Photo courtesy of L. Turner

In the second half, the Eagles drove down deep into the Raiders half, but were held short. Both teams started trading punts in the second half as neither side could 
get going. Late in the game, Bournemouth's QB Brad Smith started to find his range with notable passes to Danny Mobbs and Stuart Winship, before 
barrelling in from 10 yards out to get Bournemouth on the scoresheet with a couple of minutes remaining. The Eagles ran out the clock to register their first win of the season.

LEICESTER EAGLES 0-30 LONDON GATORS

The London Gators explosive offense blew away Leicester in their first game in the BSFL. Playing a run-and-shoot type offense QB Brett Barash found his 
range early with a 50 yard bomb to Todd Johnstone. Barash threw for 2 more TD's before the break to Johnstone and Drew Simpson. Leicester's secondary 
were having problems adjusting to the aerial threat of the Gators, but were managing to stop their ground game. Leicester's best drive of the match 
occurred just before half-time when they moved the ball from their own 35 to the Gators goal-line, but time ran out. Half-time 22-0. In the second half 
the Gators added a further converted TD on a throw Barash to Paul De Lenardis.

BOURNEMOUTH RAIDERS 20-48 LONDON GATORS

In an exciting finale to the day's entertainment, the Gators triumphed 48-20 against the improving Bournemouth Raiders. Just as the Eagles before them, 
the Raiders found it difficult to adjust to the passing game of the Gators. Despite holding them on their first drive, the Raiders went 8-0 down after 7 
minutes when Barash threw his first TD of his six in the game to Todd Johnstone, who caught a tip from CB Matt Smith. Bournemouth's QB Brad Smith 
was managing to move the Raiders downfield, but just couldn't quite get them into scoring terriorty. Barash threw two more scores before the break to 
Gary Crock and Todd Johnstone again, as the Gators went 24-0 up. On a bizarre play Smith threw an interception for Bournemouth, but then Barash 
(who was also playing DB) lateralled the ball to James Savage of the Raiders who ran the fumble in for a TD and got Bournemouth on the scoresheet. 24-6 
at half-time.

Barash (5) throwing another TD for the Gators against Bournemouth
Photo courtesy of L.Turner

Bournemouth and London played good football in the second half as they traded scores. Barash throwing further scores to Johnstone and Drew 
Simpson. Brad Smith threw two TD's to Danny Mobbs from 20 and 35 yards out to give the scoreline some respectabiliy for Bournemouth.

Tournament MVP - Brett Barash 10 TD passes on the day.

The BSFL season moves onto Orpington in Kent on Sunday 29th April for the next round of matches.

2nd March 2001 - British Senior Flag League set for kick-off

The British Senior Flag League kicks-off it's season Sunday in Bournemouth. The hometown Bournemouth Raiders will be looking to get their first season in 10 years off to a flyer with victories against Leicester Eagles and the London Gators in a three team tournament (which is the format for the league this year).

The Raiders are a reformed Youth side from the early 1990's when they reached the National Semi-Finals of the JGL. Many of their players from then have returned, but this will be their first taste of flag football action. Little can be expected from them.

The Leicester Eagles on the other hand were runners-up to the Fen Harriers in 1999 and 2000, having won the first BSFL in 1998. They are again one of the favourites for the league and will be keen to start their season with a couple of victories.

The London Gators are an unknown quantity, although they are expected to put in a strong showing on Sunday.

26th February 2001 - 13 teams register for 2001 BSFL

At a BSFL committee meeting on Saturday the format of the BSFL league for the 2001 season was agreed. A staggering 13 teams are registered with the league for the forthcoming season that runs from next Sunday (4th March) through to the championship game on Sunday 16th September.

The BSFL are delighted at the uptake from the teams that have registered considering that there were only 4 active teams last year. League Co-Ordinator Martin Gwilliam said,

"The amount of teams that have reigstered with the league for this season is even more than we could possibly have hoped for".

The League have announced that the 13 teams will be split into Northern and Southern conferences. Each team will play a regular season of 8 games, with
the top two in each conference playing in their respective championship games before meeting for the BSFL Bowl.

Teams that have registered are as follows:

SOUTHERN CONFERENCE

Bournemouth Raiders
Canterbury Coyotes
Essex Blades
Fen Harriers
Hurricanes
Lakenheath Eagles
London Gators

NORTHERN CONFERENCE

Birmingham Raiders
Leicester Eagles
Sheffield Lightning
Tayside Tigers
UCLA Renegades
York Vikings

The Southern and Northern Championship match-ups will be held on Sunday 2nd September, with the BSFL Bowl being held on Sunday 16th September at a
neutral venue in the Midlands.

The BSFL season kicks-off this Sunday in Bournemouth with the Leicester Eagles and the London Gators travelling down to compete in the first 3 team
tournament (which is the format for fixtures to be played). Sunday marks the first competitive game for the Bournemouth Raiders since 1991, when as a
Youth Two Touch side they reached the National Semi-Finals of the JGL league. Many of their players from 1991 are returning to play. The Leicester
Eagles are one of the favourites for the 2001 Bowl. They won the league in 1998 and have been runners-up for the past two seasons.Another strong
challenge is expected from the Eagles. The London Gators are very much an unknown team who will be playing their first game in the BSFL and will be
keen to make an impression.

The tournament kicks-off at Meyrick Park in Bournemouth at 12.00pm with Leicester playing the hosts. Other times: 2pm - Leicester vs. London
4pm - Bournemouth vs. London

19th February 2001 - Leicester Eagles blow away York in BSFL pre-season fixture, await first league game in two weeks time

The Leicester Eagles travelled to Copmansthorpe,York on Sunday, and took the home team apart 34-0 in a BSFL pre-season fixture. This was York's first ever Senior Flag game, and Leicester's experience showed as they scored 5 TD's in a comprehensive victory. Leicester now look forward to their opening league fixture of the season, which is away to the Bournemouth Raiders (who will be playing their first ever Senior Flag game also!).

16th February 2001 - Record numbers of teams enter the BSFL for the 2001 season

The BSFL have received an astonishing number of entries to the BSFL for the coming season. Teams that have confirmed entry are the reiging champion Fen Harriers, Leicester Eagles, Lakenheath Eagles, Bournemouth Raiders, Birmingham Raiders, Sheffield Lightning, UCLA Renegades, York Vikings, London Gators, Essex Blades, Maidstone and the Tayside Tigers. The BSFL committee sit next Saturday to produce their fixture list for the coming season.

25th January 2001 - BSFL needs flags

If you have any redundant sets of flags, the BSFL would like to know as it needs to equip teams for the forthcoming season. If you have any flags that are no longer needed then please contact the league at seniorflag@hotmail.com

25th January 2001 - USA win Senior Flag World Cup, GB hope to enter next year

Canada comes up short as USA battles back for a 10-9 victory. A highly favored USA squad  found themselves losing 9-0 at half-time. The Canadian team, lead by QB Andrew  Peterkin, jumped out early on their first drive with a 40 yard td strike to glen  cooper. The extra point was wide right and later proved to be costly.The USA team encountered problems on there first drive as the team dropped several passes from QB Jim Dutra. The First play of the game was an 50 yard reverse to Roly Reyes which was called back for blocking down field for more then 5  yards. Canada then scores on a 30 yard field goal  by Bruno Petrelli to finished the first half scoring and Canada took a  commanding lead at half time 9-0. In the second half darren Hedges kicked a 40  yard field goal to
bring the score to 9-3.With 7 minutes remaining Jim Dutra  came on the field determined to score, using all his weapons, the shifting  running of Tony baker,the speed of Brian Finn, and the great hands and quickness  of Todd Jones, Dutra set the final charge in motion. Mixing passes and rushes to  perfection Dutra marched the USA down field, the offense line held back a strong  Canadian Rush, Bob Hayden, Billy Madden, and Brett Gavin gave Dutra 7 seconds to  complete the A 20 yard TD Pass to Chad Phillips with just 38 seconds.The USA  took the lead when Darrne hedges kicked the extra point to make it 10-9. The  Canadians had one final drive, A 20 yard pass from Peterkin to Billy Durocher  brought the Canadians to with in field goal range, but where pushed back by a  strong defense line, A batted pass by Chad Phillips then Roly Reyes and  then on the final play defensive end Kevin Kurek sacked the Canadian QB to end  the game.

It is hoped that Great Britain will enter a side at next years World Cup.

Finish-Men
1.  USA(6-0)
2. Canada(4-2)
3. Uruguay(3-2)
4. Austria(3-3)
5.  Finland(3-1)
6. Bahamas(2-3)
7. Venezuela(1-3)
8. Germany(1-3)
9.  Argentina(1-3)
10. Brazil(0-4)

Men Championship
USA 10 Canada 9

Semi-Finals
Canada 20 Austria 7;  USA 28 Uruguay 0;

Quarter-Finals
Austria 3 Finland 0;Canada 14 Venezuela 0;  Uruguay 13 Bahamas 8;USA 35
Germany 0;

First Round
Germany 20 Brazil  0; Austria 7 Argentina 0
9th January 2001 - BSFL Announce League Plans


The British Senior Flag League held their AGM in Coventry last Sunday, and the 2001 season promises to an exciting year for Senior Flag Football in the UK. 5 sides have so far registered for the league in 2001 from the Bournemouth Raiders in the South to the Sheffield Lightning in the North.

Other sides that have entered for the 2001 season include the reigning champions Fen Harriers, Leicester Eagles and the UCLA Renegades from Boston.

There are also a number of sides that are currently in training with a view to entering the league. These include Dundee Storm (the League hope to be able to have a Scottish Conference), the York Vikings, the London Gators and the Derby Rhinos.

The League has also received interest in the last couple of weeks from potential teams in Leeds/Bradford, Oxford, Chelmsford, Maidstone and the US Airforce base at Lakenheath.

Senior Flag Football is a 9-a-side (although rules permit going down to 7-a-side where playing numbers are low) semi-contact (contact on the line only) non-kitted version of American Football. The key to the success of Flag Football is it’s inexpensiveness compared to the Kitted version.

The season will run from March 4th, with Bournemouth taking on Leicester, through to September latest. Competition to decide the BSFL champions will be a series of regional 3-team tournaments with each club hosting one tournament. The aim is to provide 8 games for each team culminating in a championship game at the end of the season. The final format will be decided once it is known which teams will be taking part.

By spacing out the season, it will enable new sides to enter into the league throughout the season.

Autumn (October to December) will be used to play internationals (Scotland and Ireland are to be invited to a 3-Nations tournament in England) and friendlies/tournaments designed to encourage new teams to try out the sport.

This season will be the first league season since 1999. With just 3 active sides last year the decision was taken to not play a league in 2000, and play mini tournaments in the traditional Autumn season to hopefully attract new sides. Internationals were played in the summer against Ireland (in Dublin), and in Scotland. A new side from Boston (Lincolnshire, not Maine!), the UCLA Renegades took part in an October tournament in Cambridge which was won by the Fen Harriers.

At the AGM last week, the league rubber-stamped a league for 2001, and the season has been moved from the Autumn to the Spring/Summer. Other matters discussed included:

1. England National side, internationals and World Cup

Fen Harriers requested that the set up of the England team should now become more formalised. It was agreed that issues relating to player selection, the development of an England playbook and the appointment of coaches should be addressed at a separate meeting as soon as possible. It was agreed that this should be done as soon as there was a representative fixture arranged.

Scotland & Ireland are to be invited to England play either one-off International matches or in a 3-team Tournament in October/November. Dates to be discussed and agreed once main BSFL season schedule is finalised.

Tournament being held in Dundee in July - format not yet known. Last year it was a Youth and Senior 5-on-5 non-contact flag tournament followed by a 9-on-9 contact flag Scotland v England match. This year it is hoped to include international 9-on-9 contact flag games.

Leicester Eagles confirmed that they intended to continue with their regular club fixtures against the Drimnagh Cycos from Ireland.

 Bruce Foster of Dundee Storm would like to organise a UK team to enter the World Flag Championships in America in Jan 2002. It was agreed to get more information from Bruce and advise teams of costs etc.

2. Registration fees

The decision was taken to reduce the registration fee for all new clubs that wish to enter the BSFL to just £10. This will thus cut the costs for new teams entering the league.

Because the season is spread out from March through to September, the opportunity remains for new teams to enter the league now and compete in this season's Senior Flag League which is already the biggest ever. It is also an opportunity for up and coming sides who have not yet got the resources/players to join the BSL to get some experience and game action. It also is an excellent opportunity for local kitted sides that have folded over the years through lack of players to start playing again. A great opportunity to resurrect those great team names from the past. Flag football incurs low cost, minimal administration and you only need a squad of about 10 players.

The British Senior Flag League now have a website which is still being updated but already contains a vast amount of information. It is located at http://website.lineone.net/~bsfl/index.htm

An information pack will shortly be available from the league, and if you wish to have one sent to you please contact the league atseniorflag@hotmail.com

8th December 2000

After a one year absence the British Senior Flag Football League are pressing ahead with plans for a league season to start in the spring of 2001. The 1999 BSFL champions, the Fen Harriers will be returning, along with other founder members the Leicester Europa Eagles and the Sheffield Lightning. Other teams that will be entering include a team from Boston and ex-1991 National Youth semi-finalists the Bournemouth Raiders. Other teams from Birmingham and Watford have expressed an interest also. If you want more details of the 2001 BSFL league, then please contact Britballnow now at: BSFL@britballnow.co.uk

3rd December 2000 - Leicester defeat Dundee in friendly

Leicester Europa Eagles 14-8 Dundee Storm

Leicester Europa Eagles defeated their Scottish counterparts, the Dundee Storm, 14-8 in a flag football game of the highest standard at Leicester, Sunday. Both teams had several international players playing and this led to a evenly matched game with players cancelling each other out of the game.The English went in 8-0 up at the half after  the game had  developed into a midfield battle.The English came out for the second half and shocked Dundee by quickly going into 14-0 lead this led to Dundee coming back into the game with a td from Fraser Thomson and a two point conversion from Kyle Masson.

Action from the Leicester (purple shirts) vs. Dundee friendly
Photo courtesy of Dundee Storm

Dundee then dominated the rest of the game but couldn't get the score they needed.And as in the junior game the clock ran out with Dundee dominating the game.Dundee coach Bruce Foster who had played a starring role in the game could not fault his players in a entertaining quality game of football. Bruce Thomson and Steven Adam won the offensive and defensive awards for this game.

27th November 2000

Leicester Senior Flag Football Tournament

Three teams competed for the Leicester Europa Eagles Challenge Tournament Sunday, Sheffield Lightning, Leicester Europa Eagles and the Fen Harriers. UCLA Renegades were due to compete but pulled out due to transportation problems.

Fen Harriers 20-0 Sheffield Lightning

Fen Harriers opened the tournament with a 20-0 victory against the Sheffield Lightning. Tallon opened the scoring for the Harriers with a TD scored on an interception return to put them 6-0 up. Jason Langridge extended the Harriers lead with a catch and run TD , with Moffat adding the 2 PAT to increase their lead to 14-0. A Prothero run sealed matters for Fen and made a final score of 20-0.

Leicester Europa Eagles 0-22 Fen Harriers

A superb show of defense once again by Fen enabled them to capture the tournament with a 22-0 victory against the home town Eagles.

Harriers opened the scoring with a pass to Clarke. The 2 PAT failed. Heap added the seocnd TD, with the 2 PAT being scored by Langridge. It was Landgridge again who wrapped things up for the Harriers with his second TD of the day. Moffat added the two point conversion to give a final score of 22-0.

Leicester 20-6 Sheffield Lightning

Leicester won the final game of the day by 20-6 against the gallant Sheffield Lightning scoring 3 touchdowns to 1.

The table finished as follows:

W

L

T

F

A

%

Fen Harriers

2

0

0

42

0

1.000

Leicester Eagles

1

1

0

20

28

0.500

Sheffield Lightning

0

2

0

6

40

0.000

22nd October 2000 - Fen Harriers Challenge Tournament

Four teams competed in the latest tournament held at Fen Harriers ground in Cambridge: Sheffield Lightning, Leicester Europa Eagles, UCLA Renegades and of course the Fen Harriers.

The results were as follows:

Fen Harriers 16-0 Leicester Eagles 0
UCLA 22-0 Sheffield Lightning 0

Lightning's QB launches a pass downfield against the UCLA Renegades in October 2000
Photo: BritballNow

Fen Harriers 34-6 Sheffield Lightning
Leicester Eagles 12-6 UCLA 6

The table finished as follows:

W

L

T

F

A

%

Fen Harriers

2

0

0

50

6

1.000

Leicester Eagles

1

1

0

12

22

0.500

UCLA Renegades

1

1

0

28

12

0.500

Sheffield Lightning

0

2

0

6

56

0.000

The next tournament is to be held in Leicester in November.

6th May 2000 - International Flag Football Challenge Match - Ireland vs. England

Ireland 27 England 7

Scorers:

Ireland: Dennehy(2),Reddington, Farrell.

England: Tallon.

Ireland's first ever international match was played in Dublin last Saturday. The game was a lot more even than the score suggests and both teams put in good performances. Ireland opened the scoring early in the first half with a 25yard run by Brian Dennehy. The English hit back almost immediately with a 65 yard touchdown pass to Tallon, of the Fen Harriers, who outsprinted the Irish defence to level the scores.

Mid way through the first half, Ireland took the lead with a 10 yard touchdown pass from Aiden Kelly to Padraig Reddington. The first half scoring concluded with a 20 yard catch and run by Brian Dennehy to give the Irish a 20-7 lead at the half. The English pressed hard early in the second half, but failed to capitalise on several possessions which ended deep in the Irish half. Ireland took control of the game late in the half with Liam Farrell scoring a 20 yard touchdown to make the final score 27-7. The Irish Coach Ian McGuinness was pleased with the win, considering that it was the Irish teams first ever match. It is hoped that the game will become an annual affair with the Irish travelling to England in 2001.

England (white shirts) take on Ireland in a senior flag international in 2000. 
Photo courtesy of Martin Gwilliam