Colchester Gladiators shut out by Wembley Stallions
Colchester Gladiators running back Eddie Collison finds a hole in their defeat to the Wembley Stallions. Picture: JOHN SINGER - Credit: Archant
SFC 1 East Wembley Stallions 23 Colchester Gladiators 0 The Colchester Gladiators travelled to Wembley to take on the rejuvenated Stallions, writes Nick Foxley.
After defeating the table topping Kent Exiles last week, the Stallions showed how much they have improved under veteran coach Warren Smart, from the 26-34 defeat to the Gladiators back in April.
The Gladiators meanwhile, have gone in the opposite direction, mainly due to the unprecedented rash of injuries including starting passer Rob Wickham.
And the injury jinx hit again with Adam Dickens and Sam Gennings sustaining possible season ending injuries.
The Gladiators started the game with some confidence after a battling win against the East Kent Mavericks the week before, but the offence could not get going all day, picking up just five first downs and 100 yards in total.
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When they did splutter into the Wembley half an unfortunate interception turned the ball over and the Stallions took full advantage as the teams changed ends for the second quarter, running the ball in for a touchdown from five yards out. The extra point was good to give them a 7-0 lead.
The Gladiators were forced to punt again but punter Aaron Martin was unable to kick the ball away after a wide snap, giving Wembley the ball on the Colchester 33. They soon doubled their lead after an 18 yard run and conversion, to make the score 14-0.
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The Stallions were able to score a third touchdown before the end of the period, a spectacular catch and run for 50 yards and they went in at half time 20-0 to the good.
The home side The Stallions could only add a three point field goal to their tally in the third quarter but with the Gladiators offence grinding to a halt, they never looked like losing their grip on the game.
The Gladiators have a week to prepare for their next game, a home match against old rivals, Kent Exiles.
