York Centurions 8-6 Hull Sharks

This season has been all about intense training and constantly trying to better themselves. Following this the Centurions certainly deserved a win and all that dedication and training paid off when the final whistle blew the Centurions into victory at 8 – 6.

I spoke to the Centurions President and Quarterback, Tim Blades, and he told me that although it was a close game, he believed the more disciplined team won. He said to see such an improvement in their only second season is amazing and that he was really impressed with all the players on the field.

The first quarter was quite slow due to the strong defence from both teams, especially notable in the Centurions’ 44, Hamilton, and 45, Kingstone. Sadly Whitley was taken out of the game in a bad tackle and sent to hospital to get checked over.

Following the leisurely first quarter, the Centurions’ defence managed to tackle a Hull player in the End Zone, securing them a safety and putting them ahead by two points in the second quarter. A brilliant interception by Paroussis led to the Centurions regaining possession just before half-time.

The half-time pep talk really riled the guys up and they came out of the break on top form. They had finally tasted what it was like to be on top and they wanted to keep it that way. However, a strong Hail Mary pass gained Hull Sharks a well deserved touchdown, but a conversion miss meant that Hull were now leading 6 – 2.

Not ones to have their spirits dampened, York regained form quickly and an amazing 70 yard run from Rucinski in the fourth quarter meant that although York didn’t secure a touchdown, they were edging back toward the End Zone.

Finally the moment that the Centurions had been waiting for came: Marks managed to get into the End Zone, securing a touchdown and six points for York. With not long left on the clock and York now leading 8 – 6, Hull tried to score a messy drop goal, which would have secured them three points, had they made it. One of the highlights of the fourth quarter was when Kingstone took a knee, meaning that York gained possession of the ball, pretty much obtaining the win.

Huge celebrations followed the final whistle. Congratulations to the York Centurions on their first win, hopefully one of many. The team is off to Bangor next Sunday to show the Welsh Unis what we’re made of.

Popps, the General Manager, wanted me to add a few special mentions of players who were outstanding. Arthur Pitt gets a special mention as the Defence Most Valuable Player. Special team's Most Valuable player was Jack Roberts. Robert Wickham needs a mention for his superb heads up play which had a huge influence on the game. Zef Rucinski deserves more than a small mention for his impeccable 70 yard run. And also thanks to Sam Ashafani for stepping in and playing centre and a shout out to all the assistants who helped out at the match. And finally, thanks for the huge contribution from Tom Platts - don’t know what the team would have done without you.

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