KNIGHTS @ REVOLUTION: MATCH REPORT
BAFA Week 1 2024: Northants Knights @Shropshire Revolution - FT: 0-14 W
Oakengates Leisure Centre, April 14th 2024
We opened our 2024 campaign with a road trip to visit the Shropshire Revolution, who entered Week 1 freshly promoted from Division 2. They came into the game determined to defend their home field and start the year with a win. However, our team was hungry for a 1-0 record, too. Only one team could be successful, though.
After a competitive game, with both sides leaving it all on the field, it was the combination of an incredible performance from quarterback Marcus Urbanski and a brilliant shutout defensive effort that elevated us above the Revolution, leading us to a 14-0 road victory.
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We received the opening kick-off but unfortunately, the first drive resulted in a quick three and out. The Revolution only did one better though, as they were unable to capitalise on a nice 10-yard gain on their first play. Our defence forced a punt immediately after that and our O returned to the field looking to build a drive.
On the first play of our second possession, wide receiver Tyler Gordon turned a quick pass into a 22-yard gain with a nice run after the catch. Determined not to be outdone, Marcus followed this up with an impressive 20-yard gain of his own, rushing the ball into the Revs redzone.
A holding penalty reset momentum for a second, but we bounced back with another run, and then another reception from Tyler which landed us on the one-yard-line. Marcus then finished off the drive with a rushing touchdown. With the PAT successfully added, we led 7-0.
When Shropshire went back out on offense, veteran middle linebacker Kevin Cunningham ripped the ball free from their running back, forcing a fumble and keeping us on top.
After both teams traded short drives, our offense found its groove again on either side of the first quarter’s end.
Nice completions to receiver Sam Alexander and tight end Gavin Stanley put us in Shropshire’s half. When penalties pushed us back, Marcus connected with Tyler once again on a long pass for a first down, as the first quarter came to a close.
We started the second period with a bang, as a combination of run plays and improvisation from Marcus landed us in the endzone, as he rushed for his second score of the day. Once again, Rae Liburd-Hamilton successfully tacked on an extra point, making it 14-0 early in the second.
While no more points were scored in the game, there was still plenty of action.
Our defence maintained the constant pressure on Shropshire, with our front seven and secondary working in tandem. Our pass rush pressured their quarterback, sacking him multiple times and keeping their passing game in check for the duration of the game.
The Revolution defence grew into the game, too, giving up fewer splash plays and even forcing a couple of turnovers including an interception in the third quarter. They also managed to block a field goal attempt, as we looked to make it a three-score game. However, their offense was unable to build any momentum and we held on to the win.
During the second half, wide receiver Caius Magero put his stamp on the game, with a couple of great catches, as well as some production rushing the ball, for good measure.
The stalwart defensive performance was led by an unbelievable effort from defensive end Joshua Plumb, who was dominant. He disrupted the backfield all afternoon, had multiple sacks and a forced fumble. Have a day, Josh!
MVP: Marcus Urbanski, QB #7
Offensive MVP: Caius Magero, WR #14
Defensive MVP: Joshua Plumb, DE #8
Our next game is at home as we host the Birmingham Bulls (0-1) on the 5th of May.