American Football – Newcastle Raiders v Edinburgh Napier Knights

Report courtesy of the Knight’s Head Coach, Pete Laird. (Library Photo – JLP)

The Knights started their 2014 campaign with a disappointing result away to Newcastle. A first half offensive display that was marked by high snaps, penalties and turnovers masked a tremendous defensive display with Linebacker Jamie Welsh forcing and recovering 2 fumbles.

Newcastle held a 2-0 lead at the half following a blocked punt which carried out of the end zone.

The 3^rd Quarter saw the Raiders Wishbone offense gradually begin to wear down the Knights smaller defensive unit and gradually broke a long run to start to pull clear.

A further Raiders Touchdown pass, one of only 2 attempts from the Raiders all day meant the Knights were chasing the game as it entered the 4^th Quarter. Ryan Lewis capped a fine drive by the Knights with a 4 yard score but the Raiders notched their 3^rd and final Touchdown of the day on the very next series.

A subsequent 80 yard Kick Return by Rookie Benji Goodman set up Jack Laidlaw to run in for his first ever Touchdown from the 3 yard line and complete the days scoring.

The Knights now travel to The Glasgow Tigers next Sunday hoping for a change in fortunes.

Next Fixture: 24^th November, versus Glasgow Tigers, 12 noon at Garscube Sports complex