A tense and tough south London American Football derby was won by the Peckham based Renegades at the weekend, an historic win for the Southwark club.
In the first ever meeting between the sides the Renegades overcame a side used to winning, leading to the Warriors being crowned British Champions three times.
Throughout the first half on Sunday defence was the name of the game as both teams struggled to move the ball. This game was no place for the faint hearted as the two teams went head to head in a battle to impose their will on the other side. Renegades man of the match Ade Labisi led the way with his relentless power running at the Warriors defensive line.
His relentless hammering paid off when the Warriors were forced to stack the middle of the line to stop him, leaving the outside exposed for tailback Andy Owusu to run in a 30 yard sweep for the game’s first touchdown. The Renegades defence held firm as the Warriors struggled to get back in the game, every Renegade player was determined to stop the Warriors gaining even an inch. Renegades cornerback Khalid Shittu had the game of his career and defensive tackle Victor Ikpehai made several key tackles in the Warriors backfield in the third quarter.
The Renegades offense struck again in the fourth quarter with Tigie Sankoh torching the Warriors defence on a reverse play.
The Warriors fought back scoring on a quick slant play which split the Renegades defence wide open. With time running out and the score 12 – 6 the Warriors secured a key first down on the Renegades four yard line, after a pass interference call against the Renegades.
The Renegades needed a big play from someone to secure the win and they got it when cornerback Kunle Omisakin intercepted a pass on the Renegades goal line to close out the game. If you are interested in playing for the Renegades contact Steve Verrall on 07946 728515 or steveverrall612@btinternet.com.