A lengthy trip to Aberystwyth proved worthwhile for the Gladiators as they stormed their way to victory against a tough opponent.

1ST QUARTER

The Gladiators started on the kick-off return and set the pace right from the start, gaining 40 yards on a run by Fabio Jesus.

They then immediately lit up the game as, on a 3rd down situation, quarterback Ollie Sweeney threw a perfect ball to the back of the end zone for Receiver Dylan Reetz, who caught it perfectly and gave Gloucester six points just a minute in.

The extra point attempt was successful.

Tarannau’s first offensive drive was completely shut out by the Gladiators, leading to another offensive opportunity for the visitors in dangerous territory.

A quick handoff on the first play of that drive saw running back Louis Nobes take it all the way to the end zone for another six points, making the score 14-0 after the extra point was also good.

Gloucestershire’s intense energy persisted as, after another shutout drive from Aberystwyth, the Gladiators scored another six points when rookie Anthony Ebanks-Thomas broke three tackles to score a 25-yard touchdown.

A special performance for rookies called Antony that day, as on the very next offensive drive, Antony Phiri caught a perfect pass and scored a 20-yard touchdown on his first ever play in American Football, a day to remember for the rookie.

With another two successful extra point attempts, the Gladiators ended the first quarter leading 28-0.

2ND QUARTER

Aberystwyth started with the ball in the second half, but immediately turned it over after safety Kael Jahn intercepted their pass and returned it to their 20-yard line.

Linebacker James Ross then joined the offensive action, coming in at running back and scoring a rushing touchdown immediately.

Instead of opting for the extra point, the Gladiators went for a trick play to earn an extra two points, which they executed perfectly, making the score 36-0.

It was a quick quarter, but that still didn’t stop Gloucestershire from scoring another touchdown through Ebanks-Thomas yet again.

The Gladiators finished the second quarter by scoring the extra point attempt, with the score reading 43-0 to the away side.

3RD QUARTER

The second half was quite short, but the Gladiators added more points on the board.

Receiver Alex Bath finally got on the scoresheet, catching a pass in the end zone over Aberystwyth’s cornerback.

The game was then called by the referee, due to Aberystwyth having not enough linemen, with the score reading 50-0.

It was an unfortunate end for Aberystwyth due to injuries, but the home side still put in a very strong effort despite their troubles.

Full-Time: Tarranau 0-50 Gladiators

The Gladiators now have a few weeks’ rest before their next game, an away match against rivals Worcester Royals, scheduled for the 30th of November.

Feature Image by Imogen Bell Photography 

See more on X