Ouse Valley Football

Final rookie session in Milton Keynes – this Sunday!

Michael Dilley All News, Come and Try, Senior Football BAFANL, Come and Try, Milton Keynes, Rookie Session

Our fourth and final rookie session of the month takes place this Sunday at Stantonbury Campus in Milton Keynes, starting at 11am.

Open to those wanting to play for the Youth Team (aged 14+) or the Senior Team (18+), the session takes place between 11am and 1pm. All you need to bring with you is football/rugby boots, some water, appropriate clothing to be out running in the weather and a valid form of photo ID.

To register your interest, please visit the relevant Event Page on Facebook or feel free to turn up on the day of the session:

Session 4 – Milton Keynes

Sticks v Dilley: The Results

20 Oct

Michael Dilley All News, Features Jack Davis-Fletcher, Michael Dilley, NFL, Predictions

In our fifth Head to Head of the season Wide Receiver Jack Davis-Fletcher took on Club Treasurer Michael Dilley. Here’s how they got on…

Falcons 21 Saints 31

STICKS: Jack said Matt Ryan would pass for 300+ yards and 2 TDs. He threw for 295 and 2 TDs so that’s so far so good, but he backed the wrong horse in Thursday Night Football and is off to a bad start. 0-1.

DILLEY: The Saints clearly didn’t read the script but Dill didn’t give them a prayer against the previously undefeated Falsons (seriously, did anyone?). Bad starts all round. 0-1.

Bengals 34 Bills 21

STICKS: Correctly called that the Bengals offense would be too strong for Rex Ryan’s Buffalo, and Sticks is off the mark. 1-1.

DILLEY: Never really in doubt on this side of the fence either, 1-1.

Broncos 26 Browns 23

STICKS: This is the first game our guys disagreed on, and it didn’t work out for Sticks. It almost did, but you don’t get points for almost. 1-2.

DILLEY: Thought the Broncos D would keep them in it, and that ultimately proved to be the case as Peyton continues to be all over the place despite Denver moving to 6-0. 2-1.

Bears 34 Lions 37

STICKS: Sticks goes to 1-3 by incorrectly predicting the Bears would edge it. Having gone to overtime it’s kind of hard to criticise the pick too much, so we’ll just move on.

DILLEY: Well it wasn’t actually bowling show ugly, it was actually a pretty exciting game. Also went with the wrong team to win, so all in all an ugly Bears win wasn’t the best of shouts. 2-2.

Texans 31 Jaguars 20

STICKS: Correctly called a big night for DeAndrew Hopkins (10 receptions, 148 yards and 2 TDs) and a win for the Texans, but Blake Bortles and the Jags kept it very interesting until the fourth quarter. Sticks improves to 2-3.

DILLEY: Picking the Jags is always a risk but that’s what happened here. 21 fourth quarter points for Houston later and we’ve got two guys on 2-3.

Chiefs 10 Vikings 16

STICKS: The lowest scoring game of the week, where the Chiefs’ inability to run the ball in the absence of Jamaal Charles hurt them. Sticks called it right, and goes to 3-3.

DILLEY: Calling Adrian Peterson a difference maker isn’t exactly the stuff of genius, and AP only ran for 60 yards and an average of 2.3 yards per carry, but the Chiefs would kill to have someone like that to take the pressure off Alex Smith at the moment. 3-3.

Redskins 20 Jets 34

STICKS: Jets fan Sticks was never going to go for anything other than a win for Gang Green against the inconsistent Redskins. He thought Cousins would throw three picks which was possibly a little optimistic, but he still goes to 4-3.

DILLEY: Cowboys fan Dill didn’t exactly get the result he wanted “Jets to win by 150”, but a Redskins loss is a Redskins loss. 4-3.

Cardinals 13 Steelers 25

STICKS: One of the best offenses in the NFL were expected to beat the Steelers by 14 – at least according to our man Sticks. – so a 12-point victory for Pittsburgh represents a four-score swing. Not the stuff legends are made of. 4-4.

DILLEY: Was prepared to look stupid by going with the Steelers and was left to look like a genius. This doesn’t happen often, so we should pause for a moment’s reflection………………….5-3.

Dolphins 38 Titans 10

STICKS: His loyalty to Mariota cost Sticks big time with this pick, and it takes him down to 4-5.

DILLEY: Head said Fins, heart said Titans. Picked the wrong one, and would have been pretty much home and dry if that wasn’t the case. 5-4.

Panthers 27 Seahawks 23

STICKS: Got the score right (that there’d be less than 1 TD between them) but backed the wrong horse again. Remember when the Seahawks used to be almost unbeatable at home? Seems a long time ago now. 4-6.

DILLEY: There won’t be too many people outside of Flair country that correctly called the outcome of this match, and neither of our guys are in that group. The Panthers are on the march, and our two are sinking fast. 5-5.

Chargers 20 Packers 27

STICKS: If you have a game like Phil Rivers had and still lose, you know it’s just not your day. Sticks goes to 5-6.

DILLEY: “You don’t bet against the Pack at Lambeau, you just don’t. The Packers will win, but it’ll be close”. Correct. 6-5.

Ravens 20 49ers 35

STICKS: He called it right that it would be a high scoring game, but again backed the wrong horse. Is Colin Kaepernick back though? We’ll have to see. For now, Sticks goes to 5-7.

DILLEY: “I honestly haven’t got a clue..” – finally some honesty from one of our contributors. 6-6.

Patriots 34 Colts 27

STICKS: “The Pats will tear them a new one” said Sticks. Not quite, but 34 points on the road is, well, what the Patriots do. He goes to 6-7.

DILLEY: The Pats sure didn’t win by a “country mile” but they’re already looking they’re going to take some stopping this year. 7-6 and it’s all down to Monday Night Football.

Giants 7 Eagles 27

STICKS: “Giants to win this one in a shoot-out”. Nope. Sticks crashes and burns, and finishes 6-8.

DILLEY: Unable to find a way for both teams to lose, Dill opted for the Eagles just to keep the NFC East tight while the Cowboys wait to get Romo and Bryant back. It may have been more by luck than judgement, but it’s still good enough for 8-6 and a win for the staff.

So there we have it. As a result of this week’s scores the Coaches and Staff lead after five rounds 46-29 to 41-34. It’s still all to play for, so be sure to check back on Thursday for this week’s predictions.

Did any of this week’s results in the NFL surprise you? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet.

Rookie Report: Danny Cousins

16 Oct

Michael Dilley All News, Come and Try, Senior Football BAFANL, Come and Try, Danny Cousins, Luton, Rookie Sessions

Ahead of this weekend’s Rookie Session in Luton, we sat down with Offensive Lineman, local boy and current Rookie of the Year Danny Cousins from last season’s impressive class of rookies…

Position: Offensive Line (Centre)
Height: 6ft 3ins
Weight: 290lbs
Hometown: Luton, Bedfordshire
Age: 23
Favourite NFL team: Minnesota Vikings
Favourite NFL player: Adrian Peterson

How did you get involved with American football?
After watching NFL for a few years, it was a sport that I really wanted to try out. I played rugby when I was younger and liked contact sports, but wanted to try something different.

A couple of friends and I turned up to the 2014 rookie days in Milton Keynes and St Neots after hearing about them on Facebook and loved it.

The sessions are purely for you to come and have a go. You take part in skills and drills involved with all of the different positions. The players are on hand to answer questions, offer advice and support you. We ended up going to all of the rookie sessions and joining the team!

Did anything take you by surprise during your first season?
Before I started playing, I underestimated how big a part, fitness played in the game. Although it is a “stop/start” game, it’s high intensity and you have to be able to give your all on every down.

I’ve had to improve my fitness a lot, but that was one of my reasons for joining the team too. It also surprised me how much you learn so quickly!

What is your favourite thing about playing for the Eagles so far?
The camaraderie is great. The team spirit amongst us is phenomenal; on the sideline on game day you can just feel that everybody believes in each other and that we can beat anybody!

It gives me great pride to be a part of the Eagles family.

What are your aims for next season?
I want to continue learning as much as I can about the sport, train to become technically and physically better than last year and help the Eagles secure promotion to the Premier Division.

I also want to represent Great Britain. Four Eagles were offered trials this year and I aim to do everything I can to be a part of that number next season!

What advice do you have for anyone considering playing American Football for the first time?
If you have the slightest inclination to give it a go, just do it! Don’t let a lack of knowledge or understanding of the game put you off.

I knew next to nothing when I started last year, other than a few rules I had learned from watching games. The coaches are great and teach you everything you need to know and your team-mates are always happy to help too, you just need to be willing to learn and the term “there’s no such thing as a stupid question” has never been truer!

We’re a dedicated, driven team and if you are willing to listen, learn and work hard, you’ll fit right in!

The third rookie session of the month takes place this Sunday at Lealands High School in Luton, starting at 11am.

American Football has never been more popular in the UK and is one of the fastest growing sports in the country. If you’ve always fancied having a go why not register to try it out at one of our sessions?

Open to those wanting to play for the Youth Team (aged 14+) or the Senior Team (18+), after this weekend we then move to Milton Keynes next week for our final session at Stantonbury Campus.

Each session takes place between 11am and 1pm. All you need to bring with you is football/rugby boots, some water, appropriate clothing to be out running in the weather and a valid form of photo ID.

To register your interest, please visit the relevant Event Page on Facebook or feel free to turn up on the day of the session:

Session 3 – Luton
Session 4 – Milton Keynes

Head to Head: Sticks v Dilley

15 Oct

Michael Dilley All News, Features Head to Head, Jack Davis-Fletcher, Michael Dilley, NFL, Predictions

If there’s one thing sure to split opinion quickly it’s the age-old battle of who knows more about the NFL, the players or the staff?

To try and resolve the issue once and for all players take on coaches and backroom staff one on one to try and decide once and for all who really knows their stuff.

The concept is pretty simple: each week one Eagles player and one staff member will go head to head predicting the outcome of the weekend’s NFL games, and by the end of the season the true power houses will emerge.

In week one Wide Receiver Chris Cowley took on Club Chairman and Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster battled out a 6-10 draw and three weeks ago Head Coach Will White defeated Tight End Jack Judge by a score of 13-3 to 11-5.

A fortnight ago Vice Chairman Mark Chilton edged passed Offensive Lineman and Rookie of the Year Danny Cousins, and last week Running back Matt Duffin and Running Backs coach Neil Duffy battled out a 10-4 tie.

Heading into this week where Wide Receiver Jack Davis-Fletcher (aka Sticks) takes on Treasurer Michael Dilley, the Coaches and Staff lead the players 38-23 to 35-26.

Let’s see what the weekend has in store…

Falcons @ Saints (Thursday Night Football – Sky Sports 1 HD, Friday 01:25)

STICKS: The 5-0 Falcons travel to New Orleans with the 4th ranked offence whilst the Saints boast the worst defense in the NFL. Matty Ice and Julio are going to have a good night. 300+ yards 2 TDs for Ryan and 130+ yards for Jones. Falcons win.

DILLEY: The Falcons have been pretty special so far and the Saints have, well, sucked (apart from against my beloved Cowboys, typically). I reckon it’ll be closer than it probably should be, but Falcons all day for me. Falcons win.

Bengals @ Bills (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 17:30)

STICKS: Boom, crunch time for the Buffalo Bills as they host the unbeaten Cincinnati Bengals. Personally I’m going to be looking at how the Bills offense handles the loss of Tyrod Taylor who despite his 3INTS vs NE has played pretty well this season. It’ll be interesting to see how EJ Manual leads this team but I can see the Bengals offense, lead by my ginger brother, overpowering them. Cincinnati to win.

DILLEY: The Bills don’t seem to know what sort of team they want to be. I mean sure they’re a Rex Ryan team so we know they won’t be particularly well disciplined, but apart from that it’s a mystery what we’re going to get. The Bengals on the other hand look like they could finally be about to break out in a big way, especially the way the rest of the AFC North are floundering. Bengals win.

Broncos @ Browns

STICKS: The 5-0 Broncos have been carried by their number 1 ranked defense this year. Peyton Manning has 4INTs to only a single TD in his last two games and they were wins to the Raiders and the Vikings. Will the old man bounce back against the Browns? I doubt it. I can see him throwing an INT again in this one but throw for 2 TDs in another close game, but I’m going to go with a Browns win here as Josh McCown is looking hot with over 1000 yards in his last 3 games. Browns to win and end Denver’s unbeaten streak.

DILLEY: I want to get behind Cleveland I really do. There’s just something I really like about them but I can’t quite put my finger on it. Anywho, can I go against Peyton and the Broncos, despite him having a decidedly average year this year? No I can’t, but thanks to that defense. Broncos win.

Bears @ Lions

STICKS: Both teams have struggled this year with a tough schedule and then both losing to Seattle and Arizona, but Chicago have the better record of the two thanks to two wins by less than 2 points. At 0-5 it doesn’t seem to get any easier for Detroit who are yet to face Green Bay in the division so they’ll probably want to aim for next year’s first pick in the draft. Can see this being a shocker of a game, though a couple TDs from Matt Forte will edge this one. Bears to win.

DILLEY: To say the Lions have been awful this year is putting it mildly, though to be fair the Bears haven’t been much better. Last week’s win against the Chiefs should have given them a big confidence boost, and that’ll be enough. Bears win, but it’ll be bowling show ugly.

Texans @ Jaguars

STICKS: Two 1-4 teams battle it out for their second wins of the season this week. With 2 different QBs this season the Texans somehow still have the 4th best passing attack in the league due to having DeAndre Hopkins who has emerged as the undisputed number one go-to guy in Houston with Andre Johnson’s departure. Blake Bortles was sacked 6 times last week and I don’t see it getting easier for him against JJ Watts’ big D. I see Hopkins having another big game as Houston pick up their second win of the season here. Texans win.

DILLEY: These two are so bad it’ll probably be the best game of the week. Whoever loses will go 1-5 and all but knock them out of the post-season already, and I’ve got a sneaky feeling that despite Houston’s passing game the London Jags will dig out a win at home. Jags win.

Chiefs @ Vikings

STICKS: The Chiefs have had a slow start to 2015 with big games against the Packers, Bengals and the Broncos. With Jamaal Charles out for the season with an ACL tear I can’t see their 18th-ranked rushing attack looking any better in the coming weeks. They will travel to the 2-2 Vikings who have been carried by the return of AP. They boast the 2nd ranked rush attack and the worst passing attack so look for them to continue to lean on AP against a top-middle ranked rush defense in Kansas City. Home field advantage, Vikings to win.

DILLEY: The 1-4 Chiefs were struggling enough as it was, but losing Charles for the season is a hammer blow for them. The Vikings meanwhile look like they’ve got AP almost back to his best, and he’ll be enough to put even more pressure on Andy Reid and his glorious ‘tache. Vikings win.

Redskins @ Jets

STICKS: As a fan of Gang Green I can’t really sway against them here. On paper they look similar, The Redskins have had some close games (3 decided by a TD or less) but with the return of pro bowl defensive lineman Sheldon Richardson being added to the 2nd ranked defense of the Jets I can see this being a long night for Kirk Cousins and company (who has a 5-6 TD-INT ratio). The number-one takeaway team will get 3 INTs and a fumble recovery on the night. Jets win.

DILLEY: There’s no way I can pick the Redskins to win, regardless of who they’re playing or what’s going on. Jets to win by 150, and RG-3rdString to go down with a hand injury whilst checking the temperature of the water for the backups. Jets win.

Cardinals @ Steelers

STICKS: Boasting an impressive 38 points a game the Cards are certainly looking to be a threat in the off season should they keep all their playmakers healthy. CJ2K seems to be back to his old self and has accumulated over 400 yards on the ground so far and with Carson Palmer and Fitz on the same page, this offense will be looking to put up even more points against a mid-table Pittsburgh defense. Big Ben was limited in practice so it’ll be interesting to see if him or Vick will get the start this Sunday. The match up of Antonio Brown and Patrick Peterson will be good to watch and should he be locked down look for Le’Veon Bell to get a lot of carries and passes out of the back field. I can see the Steelers putting up a fight but the Cardinals will simply outscore them. Arizona to win by 2 TDs.

DILLEY: The Cardinals the best team in the NFC West, who’d have thought it? They’re on fire at the moment but I’ve got a nagging feeling that the Steelers will stop them in their tracks. Don’t ask me why, I’m prepared to look stupid on this but. Steelers win.

Dolphins @ Titans

STICKS: As a Jets fan I hate the Dolphins and as an Oregon fan I tolerate the Titans just cause I like Marcus Mariota. Both teams come into this week at 1-3 and will look to pick up their second wins of the season. With 1000+ yards in 4 games and 8TD to 3 INTs Mariota hasn’t had a bad start to his NFL career. After that first game where he destroyed Tampa Bay we were all excited by this guy’s talent but after the week 4 bye week he had a mediocre performance against the Bills. I see him having a decent game against the Fins who had a far from impressive performance against my Jets in London and throwing for 250+ yards and 2 TDs. On the flip side Ryan Tannehill didn’t have that bad of a start to the season but has fallen off in recent weeks. Will the bye week give him time to get some chemistry with his receivers and stop aiming at their feet? Titans number 1 pass D to spoil the party and add 2 more INTs to his collection this week. Titans win.

DILLEY: Meh. I’d be lying if I said I intended to watch a single second of this game, and in doing so have probably guaranteed it’ll be an absolute classic. This is a real toss of a coin for me. The Dolphins were bad at Wembley, real bad, but they’ve had their bye week to make improvements (Lord knows they need to) and that’s making me lean towards them. Head says Fins, but I’m going to go with the Titans.

Panthers @ Seahawks (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 21:05)

STICKS: The two teams the have leaned on their rushing attacks this year and go head-to-head with equally as good rush defenses. Expect to see a lot of ground and pound at this one. Cam Newton hasn’t thrown for a ton of yards this year but hasn’t turned the ball over much, and used his rushing ability to stretch the defense and make him a player to account for in this one. Seattle have dealt with the loss of Beastmode Lynch in the shape of Thomas Rawls who’s put up over 300 yards in his last 3 games and continued to lead them to the number 1 rush attack in the league. We’ll see how the rookie deals with Luke Kuechly and Co this week but I feel like the 12th man comes to Seattle’s aid this week and they win in a game that is decided by less than a TD. Seattle win…barely.

DILLEY: Seattle have had the latest bandwagoners (is that a word? It is now) running for cover the last few weeks, and they’ll be smarting after the manner of their defeat in Cincy last week. That said, the 12th man will ride to the Seahawks’ aid and the Legion of Boom will finally, finally, start erm, booming. Seahawks win and Richard Sherman does the Superman pose.

Chargers @ Packers

STICKS: Two teams led by arguably two of the best QBs in the league, San Diego have the lesser record of the two (2-3) due to a less than average rushing attack. Both defenses are strong against the pass and I can see the Packers rushing attack led by Eddie Lacy – who had a less than impressive performance last week against St Louis – bounce back here as Rodgers steers the Pack to 6-0. Packers win.

DILLEY: You don’t bet against the Pack at Lambeau, you just don’t. The Packers will win, but it’ll be close.

Ravens @ 49ers

STICKS: These two teams a few years ago played each other in the Super Bowl. Now they both sit at 1-4. Both teams have had difficult starts to their 2015 campaign and will look to bounce back here in week 6. Joe Flacco continues to throw for ok numbers but his 5 INTs have not helped the Ravens whose first 5 games have been decided by a TD or less. Colin Kaepernick on the other hand has had a less than impressive start to the season. Looking to forget THAT game against the Cardinals a few weeks ago look at the 49ers to lean on his rushing ability along with Carlos Hyde. Both teams have less than impressive defenses these days and should Steve Smith Sr play look to Flacco having a big day in the air and Carlos Hyde to have a big day on the ground. Ravens to win purely from outscoring the 49ers O.

DILLEY: From Super Bowl to toilet bowl in three short seasons, this was the sort of the game you’d look forward to all week a few years ago. Not so much now, mind. Baltimore’s defense isn’t scary any more, but Colin Kaepernick and the 49ers offense is, and not in a good way. I honestly haven’t got a clue which way this one will go. The Cowboy in me says back the Ravens, so there we go. Ravens win.

Patriots @ Colts (Sunday Night Football – Sky Sports 2 HD, Monday 00:30)

STICKS: Deflategate Mk II. Tom Brady and Co travel with their number 1 ranked pass attack vs the Colts’ 4th worst pass defense. With a heap of injuries on the Colts’ side including Andrew Luck who is questionable, you can’t help but agree that the Pats will tear them a new one this week. Tom Brady to pass for 4 TDs and the O to score over 40 points, and Andrew Luck and the Colts to fall to 3-3 and somehow still stay top of the AFC South and in a play-off position .Pats win.

DILLEY: Darth Belichick must be licking his lips looking at the Pats schedule at the moment. The Jags are as close as a bye as you’re going to get without taking your boots off, Dallas had more injuries than you could shake a stick at last week, and now they roll into Indy with Andrew Luck still questionable. They’d beat them again with him, but they’ll definitely beat them without him. Pats win by a country mile.

Giants @ Eagles (Sunday Night Football – Sky Sports 2 HD, Monday 00:30)

STICKS: MNF presents a big NFC East clash between two teams who only have a win and a loss to separate them in probably the closest division in the NFL. The Eagles beat the Jets this season and the Giants are our noisy lodger in New York so I don’t like either of these two teams. At 3-2 and 2-3 and at opposite sides of the NFC East this game will either extend the gap in an already tight group or equal their records and make it even tougher for a play-off position come the start of ’16. Was interested to see how one of last year’s stand out players DeMarco Murray would cope in this fast-paced Eagles offense but at 2.7 yards a carry he’s been a total flop. Add Sam Bradford who’s had 6 INTs in 5 games and you’ve got an offense that needs to improve. On the other side, Eli Manning and Odell Beckham Jr have been a nightmare for opposing defenses. This will be a battle of two pass heavy offenses and with two equally bad pass defenses look at a big play or two to decide this one. Giants to win this one in a shoot-out.

DILLEY: Please join me as as frantically look through the rulebook to see if there’s any way both of these teams could lose. The Giants look like they’re getting their stuff together and are on three-game winning streak, whereas the Sheagles don’t know if they’re coming or going (unless it’s DeMarco Murray, in which case he’s well and truly going backwards). It’s a big divisional game in front of a massive TV audience, and the locals will be getting restless by the end of the first quarter if things aren’t going Chip Kelly’s way, but I think they’ll pull out the win and make the tight NFC East even tighter, before Messrs Romo and Bryant come riding to the rescue for Dallas in a few weeks. Eagles win, somehow.

Summary

Match	Sticks	Dilley
Falcons @ Saints (TNF)	Falcons	Falcons
Bengals @ Bills	Bengals	Bengals
Broncos @ Browns	Browns	Broncos
Bears @ Lions	Bears	Bears
Texans @ Jaguars	Texans	Jaguars
Chiefs @ Vikings	Vikings	Vikings
Redskins @ Jets	Jets	Jets
Cardinals @ Steelers	Cardinals	Steelers
Dolphins @ Titans	Titans	Titans
Panthers @ Seahawks	Seahawks	Seahawks
Chargers @ Packers	Packers	Packers
Ravens @ 49ers	Ravens	Ravens
Patriots @ Colts (SNF)	Patriots	Patriots
Giants @ Eagles (MNF)	Giants	Eagles

You can let us know what you think of their predictions by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet. Be sure to check back to Tuesday to see how they got on.

Winter/Spring Schedule Confirmed

15 Oct

Michael Dilley All News, Senior Football BAFANL, BIAS, Eagles, practice, preseason

As part of the Senior team’s objective of gaining promotion to the Premier Division within our first four seasons, the Club are pleased to announce our off-season schedule for all prospective players for 2015/2016.

In a change from the traditional practice schedule, starting at the end of November the team will take part in “Team Lifts” at Gold’s Gym in Bedford on Sunday mornings, before heading to Bedford International Athletics Stadium (BIAS) for a shorter practice session.

From January, weekend Camps will take place once a month at BIAS focusing on installations, targeted practice sessions and film reviews.

Subject to the release of the regular season schedule, weekends throughout April will be dedicated to pre-season games, and will be announced once confirmed.

Team Lifts and Camps are mandatory for all team members, with practices in between being optional but highly recommended.

Further details will be released shortly, but all camp costs will be included within players subs (which are not expected to rise for the 2016 season).

Ouse Valley Eagles (Senior Team) Winter/Spring Practice Schedule:

Ouse Valley Eagles (Senior Team) Example Camp Schedule:

If you are interested in joining the Eagles then our third rookie session of the month takes place this Sunday at Lealands High School in Luton, starting at 11am.

To register your interest, please visit the relevant Event Page on Facebook or feel free to turn up on the day of the session:

Session 3 – Luton
Session 4 – Milton Keynes

Third rookie session in Luton – this Sunday!

14 Oct

Michael Dilley All News, Come and Try, Senior Football BAFANL, Come and Try, Luton, Rookie Sessions

The third rookie session of the month takes place this Sunday at Lealands High School in Luton, starting at 11am.

Open to those wanting to play for the Youth Team (aged 14+) or the Senior Team (18+), after this weekend we then move to Milton Keynes next week for our final session at Stantonbury Campus.

Each session takes place between 11am and 1pm. All you need to bring with you is football/rugby boots, some water, appropriate clothing to be out running in the weather and a valid form of photo ID.

To register your interest, please visit the relevant Event Page on Facebook or feel free to turn up on the day of the session:

Session 3 – Luton
Session 4 – Milton Keynes

Duffin v Duffy – The Results

13 Oct

Michael Dilley All News, Features Head to Head, Matt Duffin, Neil Duffy, NFL, Predictions

In our fourth Head to Head of the season Running Back Matt Duffin took on Running Back Coach Neil Duffy. Here’s how they got on…

Colts 27 Texans 20

DUFFIN: Matt was pretty bullish about this one and said that the Colts would win by 16. He got the outcome right but there was only one score in it in the end. 1-0.

DUFFY: Coach Duffy also correctly predicted a Colts win, but thought it would be closer than it was. He’s also 1-0.

Redskins 19 Falcons 25

DUFFIN:Just like the Colts/Texans game Duffin gets the winner right but over-eggs the winning margin, although only by three points this time. He goes 2-0.

DUFFY: Neil couldn’t see the ‘Skins breaking Atlanta’s unbeaten start to the season and he was right, although they ran them very, very close. He also goes 2-0.

Browns 33 Ravens 30

DUFFIN: Steelers fan Duffin doesn’t like either of these teams, and went with the Ravens based on home advtange. His first slip up of the week. 2-1.

DUFFY: The stats said thid would be close (they were right). Duffy thought the Ravens would pull out the win (he was wrong). 2-1.

Seahawks 24 Bengals 27

DUFFIN: Everyone appears to be waiting for the Seahawks to turn the corner and show the sort of form that has taken them to back-to-back Super Bowls. Duffin did the same, and the wait continues. He’s down to 2-2.

DUFFY: Steelers fan Duffy backed the Bengals despite how much it clearly pained him, and he was rewarded for his sacrifice. 3-1.

Rams 10 Packers 24

DUFFIN: “I think the Packers will dominate the Rams in every aspect of this game. Green Bay by two scores.” How about that for a prediction? 3-2.

DUFFY: “Packers comfortably” said our resident Viking. Yep, pretty much. 4-1.

Bears 18 Chiefs 17

DUFFIN: Duffin had no idea why he fancied the Chiefs. Maybe because the Bears have been awful Matt? Still, the Chiefs haven’t been much better, and they lost this close one. 3-3.

DUFFY: He reckoned it was going to be a high-scoring game as these were the two teams with highest average points against record, and the Chiefs would win. Wrong on both counts. 4-2.

Saints 17 Eagles 39

DUFFIN: Duffin didn’t think this would be a particularly exciting game, and it probably wasn’t if you’re a Saints fan. His call of a New Orleans win by 7 though? Yeesh. 3-4.

DUFFY: Oh Neil. If you’re going to go by the stats then go by the stats my man. The numbers told him the Eagles would win, but you knew better didn’t you? No. No you didn’t. 4-3.

Jaguars 31 Buccaneers 38

DUFFIN: By complete fluke, Duffin gets himself back to 4-4 by backing the Bucs.

DUFFY: Having gone for a tie, this is the game that could have made Coach Duffy look like an absolute genius. As it was, we very nearly had overtime and a very excited Irishman but alas, you know, the Jags. 4-4.

Bills 14 Titans 13

DUFFIN: Finally Duffin admitted he was completely guessing with this one, but miraculously he got it pretty much spot on to go to 5-4.

DUFFY: “Stats suggest it will be close game, but the Titans have had one big win against poor opposition and then two losses to weak or weakened teams, which inflates their stats, so Bills by 10. It was closer than that but you can’t argue with the workings out. 5-4.

Cardinals 42 Lions 17

DUFFIN: The Lions are terrible at the moment and the Cardinals haven’t looked this strong in years. Put those two things together and it’s no wonder Matt went for a road win. 6-4.

DUFFY: “Arizona by a large margin”. Ding. 6-4.

Patriots 30 Cowboys 6

DUFFIN: Duffin couldn’t have been more accurate with this one. Fairly one-sided it was, Pats by three scores it was. 7-4.

DUFFY: Duffy says to always bet on the team most likely to cheat, but the Pats didn’t even need to. He’s also up to 7-4.

Broncos 16 Raiders 10

DUFFIN: Denver spluttered their way to another win, which Mr Duffin thought would be by a larger margin. It matters not, he’s gone to 8-4.

DUFFY: You could tell Coach Duffy thought about siding the Raiders for a brief second, but he’ll be glad he didn’t. 8-4.

49ers 27 Giants 30

DUFFIN: Another guess by Duffin, and another chalked up to the W column as he backed the Giants. 9-4.

DUFFY: He probably didn’t think this would be as close as it was (I’ve seen his sums, he didn’t) but he backed the right horse in this remarkable game. 9-4.

Steelers 24 Chargers 20

DUFFIN: Our Pittsburgh fans were only ever going to pick the Steelers in Monday Night Football, and doing so leaves Duffin with a final record of 10-4.

DUFFY: His heart said Steelers, his head said Steelers and most importantly his stats said Steelers to also leave Duffy on 10-4.

So there we have it. This week’s Head to Head finishes in a 10-4 tie and as a result the Coaches and Staff lead after four rounds 38-23 to 35-26. It’s still all to play for, so be sure to check back on Thursday for this week’s predictions.

Did any of this week’s results in the NFL surprise you? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet.

Coach White on the Rookie Sessions

12 Oct

Michael Dilley All News, Come and Try, Senior Football Come and Try, Luton, Rookie Sessions, St Neots, Will White

Eagles Head Coach Will White says he is very happy with what he has seen at the team’s rookie sessions so far this month.

A good number of rookie players attended the first two sessions in St Neots over the last couple of weekends, and Coach White was impressed with the new guys.

We put them through a number of drills and ability test to work out how athletic they were and what positions they could help the club.

The standard of the guys has been very good. Most have played sport at a very good level and coped with the things we threw at them without any major corrections needed so we’re looking forward to seeing how they develop.

This Sunday’s session (18th October) takes place at Lealands High School in Luton, with the final session being held at Stantonbury Campus in Milton Keynes a week later.

Both run from 11am to 1pm and are open to anyone aged 14+ (for the Youth Team) or 18+ (for the Senior Team).

Commenting on what rookie players should expect from from the sessions, Coach White said it’s not all just about football:

We do some conditioning work as we want to have a good understanding of the guys’ fitness levels as well as their football ability.

Most of all though people should expect to have fun – we want to make each session enjoyable as possible!

To register your interest, please visit the relevant Event Page on Facebook or feel free to turn up on the day of the session:

Session 3 – Luton
Session 4 – Milton Keynes

Nate Ashby on the 2015 season and life with the Eagles

09 Oct

Michael Dilley All News, Come and Try, Features, Senior Football BAFANL, Come and Try, Nathaniel Ashby, Rookie Sessions

Earlier this week we caught up with Offensive Captain Nathaniel Ashby to hear his thoughts on the 2015 season ahead of this Sunday’s Rookie Session in St Neots.

After several seasons playing for the Cambridgeshire Cats you transferred to the Eagles last year. What was it that brought you to the club?
I played for the Cats for 12 years from the age of 18, but the club really changed a lot over the last five years or so in many different ways, so I felt it was just my time to move on.

Luckily for me the Eagles were newly-formed and had a number of coaches and players I knew and respected, so it was the obvious choice for me to spend the next phase of my career.

The Eagles’ first game of last season was away to your old club. That must have been a strange experience, did you have any mixed feelings heading into the game?
Wow yes it was very, very strange standing on the away sideline at Coldhams common after having played so many games for Cats, and the idea of beating the team that I called home for 12 years was hard not to think too much about.

How did it feel to be named one of the team captains for this season?
Being named a team Captain was great for me. I feel I really earned my stripes on this team due to my attendance all through pre-season and always trying to lead by example as a veteran player.

For that to be recognised amongst a lot of top players was a real honour.

What do you think makes you a good captain?
I think the fact that I have been playing for nearly eighteen years now has given me a lot of experience that I can pass on to others.

I also always try to lead by example in everything I do from turning up on time, to giving full effort every play and also still trying being as coachable as possible by listening to the coaches and not ever thinking I know it all.

As well as a playing captain you were also voted on to the committee this year as Player’s Rep. How did that come about?
Being voted onto the committee came about purely by putting myself forward at the AGM, where I got to stand up and sell myself as a potential committee member to the team.

The fact that I had been on the committee for a number of years at the Cats probably played in my favour, but I also think that I had proven my dedication to the team and the club overall during my time as an Eagle, so everyone at the AGM knew me and what I am about.

How was last season for you?
The season was been terrific for me personally as I made the switch from CB to WR (a decision I made during the off season) after it became apparent that we would be losing a number of veteran WRs from last year’s team due to retirement or other circumstances.

I have played both sides of the ball my whole 20-year career and I saw a team need on the offence coming into this season so moved over.

This has been really interesting for me having to relearn the WR position and an offensive system I have never seen anything like before so it’s kept me challenged which in turn has kept me interested and constantly developing as a player.

What do you most enjoy about playing for the Eagles?
The things I enjoy most about playing for the Eagles are the quality coaching and not just quality, but also the constant challenge you receive from the coaches who like me are never happy to settle for anything less than your best.

I also love how well organised the club is.

But the biggest factor that I love the most is the camaraderie amongst the players as everyone has made me feel really welcome and valued ever since I got here and you can really see that when we play.

We play for each other as a team and there is no individual “super star” players.

What are your aims for next year?
My aims for year ahead are to firstly take the opportunity in the off season to heal and rest up. This past season has been long and tough as I played most games in multiple positions starting on O, D and special teams throughout the year.

I am however back in pre season training mode where I lift weights and run 3-4 times a week to help gradually prepare me for hitting pre season training hard in without it being too big a shock to the system!

My aims as a player are to focus on playing Defence again in particular corner back and help to team to take that next step through the play-offs and make the finals next season.

I’m also the Player’s Rep on the committee, so I would look to maintain that role and help the committee to continue to develop the club into a stable, successful and ever improving organisation.

The second rookie session of the month takes place at Priory Park in St Neots this Sunday (11th October) between 11am and 1pm.

All you need to bring with you is football/rugby boots, some water, appropriate clothing to be out running in the weather and a valid form of photo ID.

Click here for further information, or please visit the relevant Event Page on Facebook:

Session 2 – St Neots – 11th October
Session 3 – Luton – 18th October
Session 4 – Milton Keynes – 25th October

Head to Head: Duffin v Duffy

08 Oct

Michael Dilley All News, Features Mad Scientist, Matt Duffin, Neil Duffy, NFL, Predictions

If there’s one thing sure to split opinion quickly it’s the age-old battle of who knows more about the NFL, the players or the staff?

To try and resolve the issue once and for all players take on coaches and backroom staff one on one to try and decide once and for all who really knows their stuff.

In week one Wide Receiver Chris Cowley took on Club Chairman and Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster battled out a 6-10 draw. Two weeks ago Head Coach Will White defeated Tight End Jack Judge by a score of 13-3 to 11-5, and last week Vice Chairman Mark Chilton edged passed Offensive Lineman and Rookie of the Year Danny Cousins.

Heading into this week where Running back Matt Duffin takes on Running back coach Neil Duffy, the Coaches and Staff lead the players 28-19 to 25-22.

Coach Duffy, our resident Viking, has gone for a scientific approach to this weekend’s games. He has calculated the average scores for each team to come up with a formula to work out who is more likely to win. Duffin on the other hand, has made it up as he went along. Let’s see how it goes…

Colts @ Texans (Thursday Night Football – Sky Sports 1 HD, Friday 01:25)

DUFFIN: I think the Colts will beat the Texans quite convincingly in this one. Indy by 16. Colts win.

DUFFY: The Texans are struggling (as usual), and the Colts without Luck, this will be a close game, but not in a good way. Colts win. Just.

Redskins @ Falcons

DUFFIN: Falcons to remain unbeaten against the Skins and win by nine. Falcons win.

DUFFY: It’s hard to see Washington break the Falcons winning start to the season. Falcons win.

Browns @ Ravens

DUFFIN: I dislike both of these teams but will have to go with the Ravens due to the home field advantage. Ravens by 4.

DUFFY: The stats say this will be close, but I think the Ravens will be energised by their win last week. Ravens win.

Seahawks @ Bengals

DUFFIN: Seahawks to ruin the Bengals’ 100% record in a close one. Seahawks by 3.

DUFFY: The Bengals have looked annoyingly solid in every game so far, it’s hard to see them slipping up here. Bengals win.

Rams @ Packers

DUFFIN: I think the Packers will dominate the Rams in every aspect of this game. Green Bay by two scores.

DUFFY: Packers comfortably.

Bears @ Chiefs

DUFFIN: No idea why I fancy the Chiefs for this one but Kansas by 8.

DUFFY: The two teams with the highest average points against. This will be a high scoring game, but the Chiefs offence will make the difference.

Saints @ Eagles (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 17:30)

DUFFIN: Can’t imagine this being the most exciting of games, but I’ll go with the Saints by 7.

DUFFY: Stats suggest the Eagles will win, but it is close and with Brees back, I think stats be damned, it’s the Saints to win this one.

Jaguars @ Buccaneers

DUFFIN: Not sure about this one at all but I’ll go with the home team. Buccaneers win by 5.

DUFFY: The stats say it will be a tie, but we don’t need stats to know it will be a boring game. I would like the London Jagwars to win, though I will be brave and trust the numbers to say a tie.

Bills @ Titans

DUFFIN: This one is a complete guess, I know next to nothing about either team. Bills by a score.

DUFFY: Stats suggest it will be close game, but the Titans have had one big win against poor opposition and then two losses to weak or weakened teams, which inflates their stats, so Bills by 10.

Cardinals @ Lions

DUFFIN: Can’t see the Lions breaking their 0.000 record against the Cardinals. Cards by two scores.

DUFFY: Arizona by a large margin.

Patriots @ Cowboys (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 21:15)

DUFFIN: With the Pats unbeaten so far and the Cowboys with so many injuries, I reckon this could be fairly one sided. Pats by 3 scores.

DUFFY: Always bet on the team most likely to cheat. Patriots to win.

Broncos @ Raiders

DUFFIN: Can’t imagine the Raiders will be able to cope with Denver. Broncos by 13.

DUFFY: The Raiders are playing better than usual, but you have to go with the Broncos.

49ers @ Giants (Sky Sports 2 HD, Monday 01:30)

DUFFIN: Another guess, but I’ll go with Manning over Kaepernick. Giants by 7.

DUFFY: The 49ers are the lowest scoring team by a significant margin, so this has to be the Giants.

Steelers @ Chargers (Sky Sports 1 HD, Tuesday 01:15)

DUFFIN: As a Steelers fan I’m going to have to back them in this one. Steelers by 9.

DUFFY: Heart, head and stats all say Steelers…

Summary

Match	Duffin	Duffy
Colts @ Texans (TNF)	Colts	Colts
Redskins @ Falcons	Falcons	Falcons
Browns @ Ravens	Ravens	Ravens
Seahawks @ Bengals	Seahawks	Bengals
Rams @ Packers	Packers	Packers
Bears @ Chiefs	Chiefs	Chiefs
Saints @ Eagles	Saints	Saints
Jaguars @ Buccaneers	Buccaneers	TIE
Bills @ Titans	Bills	Bills
Cardinals @ Lions	Cardinals	Cardinals
Patriots @ Cowboys	Patriots	Patriots
Broncos @ Raiders	Broncos	Broncos
49ers @ Giants (SNF)	Giants	Giants
Steelers @ Chargers (MNF)	Steelers	Steelers