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The conditions dictated the offensive strategy of both
side throughout the day meaning the defenses would always have the upper hand. The final statistics showed how even a contest this was with the Arrows outgaining the Surge by a
slim 123 total yards to 119.
In the first quarter both sides had trouble getting a handle on the
ball with a muffed punt by the Arrows setting the Surge up in great scoring position. The Surge were unable to capitalise on this opportunity however as linebacker Ian Looms
stripped the ball from quarterback Richard Large inside the Arrows 5-yard line, and cornerback Errol Wilson fell on the ball to end the threat. As the second quarter wore on, further
handling errors from the Arrows through interceptions and fumbles meant that the visiting team were able to gain the upper hand in terms of field position, and they were able to make this
count when a 22-yard field goal attempt split the uprights for the days only score.
With the heavy rain continuing in the second half, the game became a
true defensive battle, with LB Ian Looms (10 tackles, one forced fumble) and defensive end James Chattoe (4 tackles, 1.5 sacks) impressing for the Arrows, whilst Lee Trethaway and Adam Steele
stood out for the Surge.
With time running out in the final quarter the Arrows were able to
mount one long drive down the field, with runningback Errol Wilson scampering for gains of 12 and 17 yards on consecutive plays to leave the Arrows knocking on the door. But on third
down, Staffordshire free safety Tony Charles came up with the play of the day as he picked off an errant Richard Wilde pass and returned it 33 yards, to preserve the Surge's narrow
lead. From there, Staffordshire were able to run out the clock and inflict the first loss of the Arrows season.
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