|
Norwich
Devils 14-34 Peterborough Saxons
A new look Saxon offense took just three plays to make an
impact, as quarterback Ed Helton hit Aaron Gepp with a 39 yard touchdown pass
to open the scoring, however, hopes of a blowout were short lived as the Devils
responded immediately, tying the game on their first possession.
Fleet footed quarterback Helton regained the home side lead
toward the end of the first period with a 45 yard run and from there on the two
sides traded possession with the resilient Devils tying things up at 14 a piece
midway through the second quarter.
Penalty flags littered the first half, as opening day
excitement saw the Saxons repeatedly penalised for their conduct, but strong
words from Head Coach Charles O’Neal would put the home side back on track as
new signing Dervan Alleyne marked his arrival hauling in a 45 yard strike from
the in form Helton.
Not content with his first half performance, Helton added
another touchdown pass before halftime, this time to last year’s leading scorer
Courtney Pope to take a 28–14 lead into the break.
Defense dominated the second half; interceptions from Steve
George and Wayne Gumbs ending promising Norwich drives and on the last play of
the game, Helton’s hot hand continued hitting Aaron Gepp for his second score
of the day.
Game 2 takes place this Sunday as the Saxons visit 2007
finalists the Ipswich Cardinals.