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The Redditch Arrows were unable to overcome their own mistakes on Sunday against the Yorkshire Rams, as they committed six turnovers in miserable conditions in Leeds, and fell to a 13-7 defeat. Whilst the team were disappointed with losing their first game of the season, several individuals put in performances to suggest that the team will be able to build on last season's successes.

After Redditch's first possession ended in a short punt, the Rams were able to get the all important first score on their first offensive play, with a 38-yard pass down the left sideline catching the Arrows vaunted defence unaware. With a successful extra point kick the home side lead 7-0, and before the Arrows were able to settle into their first game of the season, the turnover bug struck with runningback Dave Mills spilling the ball and giving the Rams excellent field position. Fortunately this time the Redditch defense was not in such generous mood, and the Rams were unsuccessful on a 43-yard field goal attempt.

It wasn't until the second quarter that Arrows quarterback Richard Wilde managed to get the offense going as the rain steadily got heavier, resulting in turnovers by both teams as the ball became increasingly difficult to hang onto. Cornerback Barry Winters and defensive end James Chattoe helping the Arrows cause with a first half interception and fumble recovery respectively. In the second held, another fumble recover by Chattoe set the Arrows up in excellent field position, resulting in workhorse runningback Dave Mills (who needed the day with 27 carries for 111 yards) ripping through the middle of the Rams defense for a 24 yard touchdown, with kicker John Riddell adding the extra point to draw the teams level at 7 apiece.

To their credit, Yorkshire took this as impetus to put together an excellent drive of their own, and after a 29 yard scramble by the Rams quarterback a 7-yard run off right tackle restored the home lead. Defensive end Ian Looms got high though and blocked the extra point attempt to leave the score 13-7.

The final quarter saw both teams struggle to get any momentum with turnovers and defensive effort thwarting any chance of further scores. For the Arrows defensive ends James Chattoe (5 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 2 fumble recoveries) Noel Fischer (10 tackles and a sack) and linebacker Jim Mortimer (12 tackles) stood out. The Arrows now prepare to return to Yorkshire next week to face the South Yorkshire Mustangs.