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The Revolution continues
Shropshire started the game in the best possible way, scoring on their very first possession of the game.
First year running back Russ Lingwood followed his blockers and scampered 50 yards to score.
Andy Plant added the extra point to take a 7-0 lead.
On the very next drive Plant caught a 40 yard bomb from Shropshire quarterback James Horn but was tackled inside the 10 yard line.
Revolution were unable to capitalise on good field possession and came away with nothing.
The Banshees then showed that the game would be fiercely contested by putting together a good drive before Shropshire’s defence finally stiffened and they had to settle for an Iain Vanes field goal to narrow the gap to 7-3.
Lingwood added to his account with another rushing touchdown and with veteran wide receiver Chris Howe catching a Horn touchdown pass and Plant adding the extras, Revolution closed the half 21-3 up.
Gloucester regrouped after the break and showed their intention on their first possession.
They marched down the field and scored, thanks to a pass from American quarterback Derek Yenerall to rookie receiver Mike Martin.
Needing the points, Gloucester opted for a two-point conversion and thanks to Gary Williams, the score moved on to 21-11.
Torrential rain from that point onwards limited both side’s ability to move the ball effectively and, with the Banshees needing to score quickly and the rain continuing to fall, the Revolution adopted a conservative, low-risk approach to moving the ball.
Shropshire hit back with a long punishing drive, including good gains from rushers Matt Woodcock and Glenn Symington, before Horn barged over from the one-yard line.
Plant again added the extra point to take the score to 28-11.
Shropshire’s final points of the day and Horn’s last touchdown pass, a 15 yarder, proved historic.
Former offensive lineman turned tight end Gideon ‘Giddy’ Beddows caught his first touchdown in 22 years of playing the sport, to the obvious delight of his teammates. The point after attempt failed and Shropshire lead Gloucester 34-10.
Gloucester would not lie down though and with workhorse running back Shaun Griffin in fine form, scored on their next possession thanks to another Yenerall to Martin touchdown throw. With the game still within the Banshees sights, Shropshire needed to control the ball and Revolution’s big, experienced offensive line took control in the fourth quarter.
An eight minute, clock-draining drive down the field took the momentum away from the Banshees and although Revolution failed to score, it effectively sealed the game at 34-17.
In addition to Lingwood and Horn, who both impressed, the Revolution offensive line dominated as did defensive star Andy Flint. The former sprinter had an outstanding game, grabbing an interception and looking dangerous with the ball in hand on Special Team duties.
Revolution Head Coach, Andy McAdam, who again made an impact on the field at middle linebacker, said: “It was a good all-round performance from the team, but I was particularly pleased with the offense and, specifically the offensive line.
They were able to give our backs the opportunities to score.
They are a much underrated group but with the experience, class and technical ability of people like Troy Newton, they will always be vital part of this team.”
Next up for Shropshire is their first game of the season at their Telford Hornets Rugby Club base on Sunday, 14 June against Lincolnshire Bombers. Kick off is at 2.30pm and admission is free.