Army Jackals crowned American football Inter Services champions after first Army v Navy
For the first time, the British Army are crowned the Inter Services American football champions following an impressive 35-6 win over the Royal Navy.
With this fixture between the services unable to be played last year, this inaugural meeting had some extra spice behind it.
The Army however this time out were always in the driving seat, fueled by the confidence of their earlier win over the 2023 champions the Royal Air Force a fortnight ago – the senior service meanwhile lost their match against the Air Force in Game One.
It was the men in red who scored first, with Officer Cadet Cooper scoring a brilliant touchdown off a pinpoint pass from quarterback Nathan Brown, Dale Kennedy converted the kick to give the Army Jackals an early lead.
Q2 saw an inspired individual carry from Howe gain the Jackals some crucial yardage before Brown fed Drew Newiss for the Army's second touchdown.
The Jackals then successfully went for two through Nick Coventry, with the score 15 to nothing at the break.
Q3 saw Luke Dyer score with a fantastic solo effort after some sustained pressure from the Royal Navy.
Dale Kennedy kicked the extra point and after three-quarters of the match, the Army side was 22 points to the good.
A light-footed Henricks and then Jacob Shotton fed sublimely by McDonald got themselves on the scoresheet in a feisty final quarter before a consolation touchdown points for the Senior Service.
A brilliant six points scored by the most unlikely of contenders, Robbie Fowler, came after the Army fumbled a snap, leading to Fowler taking full advantage much to the delight of his team and supporters.
The chance for an extra point was stifled by the Jackals' defensive line and six was not nearly enough to claim any glory or silverware.
Five touchdowns from the men in red were the ultimate undoing of the home team as the Army Jackals triumphed on the south coast 35 points to 6.
Two years in and two different champions – military American football is here to stay and all three teams are playing their part.
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