The Cambridgeshire Cats and the Kent Exiles continued their relationship with their third annual controlled scrimmage as part of both teams’ preparations for the 2007 BAFL season. Promotion and relegation has kept the two clubs from any competitive meetings in the recent past, but the good links made between the sides led the Cats to make the 70-mile trip to Orpington. A 4-6 record upon promotion to the then Division 1A, shows a team continuing to progress, let’s not forget the Exiles have only lost in playoff football to Britball flag-flyers Coventry Jets in the past 2 years.
The Exiles training facility experienced the whole spectrum of weather conditions, hail, sleet snow and sunshine, with a strong wind to boot. The scrimmage was designed specifically to work on particular areas of the game as the respective coaches saw fit. So instead of going at a game, a more pragmatic co-operational approach was taken as sets of 10 downs were exchanged. After 4 offensive series each, the coaches showed the extent of their congeniality by providing specific formations upon request for the teams to test themselves against. This kind of sporting altruism is indicative of two teams focused on developing the league and the sport as a whole, as well as their own personal achievements.
The Cats would like to extend their thanks for the hospitality of the Exiles, and wish them the best on their road to Britbowl XXI in their BAFL1 South Campaign, and look forward to hosting them before the 2008 season.