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Game #11

My first human vs human match and a nail-biter to boot! A poor initial defensive set-up allowed the Dozzers to run round the top of the Heroes' defensive line for an easy first score. The Heroes came back well though and a well-worked move including a hand off under pressure allowed Kane to run in an equaliser before half time.

With many players down as a result of a pitch invasion at the start of the second half, the Heroes were put under pressure immediately but they were able to move the ball out of danger and push nearly to the touchline before surrendering possession. Even then, if not for a fumbled pick-up, they would have scored. Great work by the Dozzers' catchers got them the ball but the Heroes could still have taken it back if not for an ill-judged block that sealed off the route to a blitz on the ball-carrier.

The Heroes wouldn't lay down and die though, chasing down the opposing catcher and recovering the ball. However, good work by the Dozzers' blitzers and ogre made it safe and they ran in the winner in the final turn. The Heroes eagerly await a rematch!

Lessons Learned:

1. Always keep at least one player loose to cover back (when am I going to learn this for good?)

2. Keep pushing upfield when you have the ball as you never know when a scoring opportunity may present itself.

3. A single error can decide a match - in this case, obstructing a blitz by taking a block first in an attempt to reduce the assists.

4. Clever use of GFIs can make a score from what looks like an impossible position (as shown by my opponents here).”