SUNDAY WITH THE STEELERS
Steelers Aiming To Pull Their Weight!
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, March 18
Scunthorpe Steelers return to action tomorrow with an attractive pre-season friendly against Harrogate Hawks at Quibell Park (2.30 K.O.).
“And we can now boast a quad tipping the scales at a huge 4.5 tons,” said spokesman Shay Eddy.
The Steelers begin a new season at the end of April in a new competition, the Scunthorpe based Combined Gridiron League, writes Nigel Fisher.
They have been busy recruiting some big players and have literally reached new heights.
Heavies “man mountain” Robert Broadley (nose tackle) at 22st 10 lbs – and 6ft 2.5 ins.
Smallest is big-hearted Simon Roberts (wide receiver) at 5ft 6ins (150 lbs).
The average height of the team has now risen to 5ft 11.5 ins, average weight 199 lbs, average age 23.
American-born head coach Robin Burton is very enthusiastic about the forthcoming campaign.
He said: “I’m going into my sixth UK season and potentially this is the best team I have ever fielded. If they play anywhere near potential, they are going to have a really good season.”
Scunthorpe, who already have Americans George Holland and Steve Gass, made it a hat-trick this week by signing Brian Thornton (linebacker) who originates from St Louis. He is serving in the United States Airforce in East Anglia.
Long-serving quarterback Simon Huxford, who lives in Grimsby, will start as quarterback tomorrow, “But Gass will definitely be given two quarters minimum,” added the head coach.
Sixteen players have successfully come through pre-season practice – eight rookies, seven from Grimsby, and one former Horsham Predator Richard Green, from Lincoln.
Tomorrow’s opponents Harrogate , who are playing in the BNGL National division this term, have only lost once in the past two seasons and hammered Grimsby Scorpions last term with a score which ran well into three figures. They are coached by American Paul Smith.
“The Grimsby contingent we have picked up from the Scorpions will be keen to avenge that defeat,” said Robin and Shay.
Scunthorpe’s second scheduled pre-season friendly at Quibell Park on April 2 against Sheffield Vulcans (formerly Steel City Giants) has hit problems, for the Vulcans have folded. Other opposition is being sought and Lincoln Bombers are distinct possibilities.
The league season kicks off on April 30 away to Cannock Chase Giants (ex-Wrekin Giants). The first CGL home spectacular will be at Quibell on May 11 against Walsall Titans.
Gass Fuels A Steelers Super Win
By Nigel Fisher
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, March 20
Some “Classical Gass” helped Scunthorpe Steelers call the tune with an on-song 40-12 victory over Harrogate Hawks at Quibell Park yesterday.
Steve Gass – a giant 26-year-old American-born quarterback and wide receiver – made a marvellous debut.
The 6ft 3in United States Army airforceman only shared the playmaker role with long-serving Simon Huxford.
But what an impression he made!
He engineered some remarkable touchdown plays, including a 60-yard completion to Sean Ward.
And his ability to move in the pocket and even create a touchdown pass out a probable sack augurs well for the future, once he becomes familiar with Scunthorpe’s ways.
Fuelled by Gass, the home team gained 136 yards passing out of a total of 343 – a high percentage and one which added greatly to the fans’ entertainment in this pre-season curtain raiser.
But the Steelers’ demolition of Harrogate – a team beaten only once, in the league play-offs, last season – was far from a one-man affair.
“It was a good team performance,” stressed head coach Robin Burton.
Particularly impressive among the established players was running back Maurice Newton, who gained 133 yards during a five star first half display.
It was Newton whose 14 yard carry took the Steelers to the one yard line and set up John Strachan for the opening touchdown.
But a bad snap meant that Steve Rack, who had earlier missed with a 41 yard field goal attempt, never even got in a kick for the extra point.
Harrogate return a kick-off 50 yards for spectacular touchdown only to see it ruled out on a double “clipping” call.
Gass then entered the fray as quarterback with that spectacular 60 yard completion to wide receiver Ward. And Rack tagged on the extra point to make it 13-0 at the end of the first quarter.
Early in the second period Gass looked certain to be sacked but off balance threw a great pass to pick out wide receiver Andy Grainger in the end zone.
Rack dragged his kick wide, but Scunthorpe did not have to wait too long to extern their lead.
For a 55 yard kick by Rack bemused the visitors receiver and debutant Richard Green race in to bring him down in the end zone and so gain a rare two point safety.
Harrogate reduced the arrears to 21-6 with a neat 14 yard play.
But Scunthorpe stormed back with some great teamwork. Cliff Pargeter intercepted a pass from the visitors end zone and return it 17 yards.
Newton moved the ball from the three yard line to within inches, and Gass went over with a “sneak”.
The American newcomer then repeated the “sneak” after his 25 yard pass had resulted in Grainger being halted a yard out.
With Scunthorpe 33-6 to the good at the interval Harrogate might have been forgiven for caving in in the second half.
But they played with a great deal more steel.
The third quarter became something of a stalemate with defences on top and the only score was a spectacular 6 1yard TD play by the visitors.
The fourth quarter followed a similar pattern, this time Scunthorpe finding the end zone with a 13 yard completion by Gass to Grainger. Rack tagged on the extra point.
Steeler Shay Eddy, who was stretchered off the field during the second quarter after taking a nasty blow on the neck, suffered a slight concussion but was not detained in hospital.
Robin Is Country’s Number Two Coach
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, March 25
Scunthorpe Steelers head coach, Robin Burton, has been elected vice-chairman of the British Football Coaches’ Association.
President is the most famous Britain to play American Football in the NFL – Mick Luckhurst. The ex-Atlanta Falcons kicker now presents Channel 4’s coverage of the sport.
Steelers player/official/coach Shay Eddy has gains his Level Two Coaches’ certificate.
The examiners were very impressed by his performance and he was described as the most likely to make head coach.
Robin Burton said: “I’m very proud of him.”
Mr Phylisan
Veteran Steelers’ linebacker Terry Wells (36) takes a “bit of stick” for being much the oldest player on the roster.
Match commentator Paul Woodham has even taken to describing the genial No. 52 as “Mr Phylisan”.
Perhaps Paul will also note that Terry is exactly twice as old as wide receiver Sean Ward.
Other senior statesmen are Mel Lings and Rick Wright (both 30) and Steve Rack and Martyn Russell (31).
New Faces Make Debut
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, April 1
Two more Americans have joined Scunthorpe Steelers and will be playing in tomorrow’s pre-season game against Hartlepool Steelers at Quibell Park (2.30).
Jim Davidson is a linebacker and Richard Lynn is a lineman. Both are serving in this country with the US Air Force.
The Steelers also signed Bob Schofield, a wide receiver, formerly with the Sheffield Giants.
Making a welcome return to Scunthorpe’s line-up will be one of last season’s stars, John Osibote.
One of the biggest talking points tomorrow will be who gets the starting quarterback spot.
Will it be established Grimsby-based Simon Huxford or American Steve Gass who played so brilliantly on his debut against Harrogate Hawks?
Steelers’ Second Big Success
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday April 3
Scunthorpe Steelers recorded their second emphatic pre-season victory at Quibell Park when they thrashed Hartlepool Steelers 45-6 yesterday, in an entertaining American football clash.
“The team is coming along just fine,” said head coach Robin Burton.
Scunthorpe went ahead with a two-yard run by John Strachan, with Steve Rack kicking the extra point.
Pete Burns then returned a punt 78 yards, in spectacular fashion, to make it 13-0 at the end of the first quarter.
Quarterback Simon Huxford’s six-yard pass to debutant Bob Scholfield extended the lead, with Huxford picking out Steve Gass for two extra points.
Hartlepool then reduced the arrears on a six-yard run to make it 21-6 at half-time.
Scunthorpe really got on top after interval, scoring 12 unanswered points in each quarter.
Gass picked out Steve White with a 15-yard pass, while Maurice Newton powered over on a 21-yard run.
Then, in the final quarter, Huxford sped over on a 32-yard run, receiving excellent blocking as he went.
Gass completed the scoring with a typical four-yard quarterback sneak.
Huxford had the better playmaking statistics, completing four of 10 attempts for 37 yards and one touchdown. Gass was one from 11 for 30 yards with one TD and one interception.
Maurice Newton rushed 87 yards, Baz Mumby 63 and Simon Huxford 46.
On the defence, Richard Green had a great day with 10 unassisted tackles (plus three assists), recovering one fumble and blocking a kick.
Steelers Fixtures
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, April 8
Scunthorpe Steelers have been given a slightly changed batch of fixtures for the new Combined Gridiron League season which gets underway at the end of the month.
Locomotive Derby have dropped out of the Crown National Division Northern Conference.
So, to avoid any further confusion and keep the number of fixtures at 10, it has been decided to play a couple of inter-conference games to complete the schedule.
Steelers Fixtures
April 30 v London Capitals (Away)
May
14 v Walsall Titans (Home)
21 v Leicester Huntsmen (Away)
28 v Cannock Chase Giants (Home)
June
4 v Stoke Spitfires (Away)
11 v Stoke Spitfires (Home)
18 v Cannock Chase Giants (Away)
July
9 v Walsall Titans (Away)
16 v Leicester Huntsmen (Home)
23 v Heathrow Jets (Home)
Cut Number Of US Stars – Call
By Nigel Fisher, Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, April 29
Scunthorpe Steelers’ head coach, Robin Burton, has chosen the event of the new Combined Gridiron League season to launch a fierce attack on imported American professional players, who, he feels, are spoiling the game in this country.
Scunthorpe are trying to get a reduction in the number of American stars allowed at each club.
At present, each can have five kited out for a match, with three on the field at any one time.
Scunthorpe open their league season tomorrow at London Capitals – a team which has two former Detroit Lions American pros from the NFL.
Walsall Titans, also in Scunthorpe’s league, have “one guy straight off the Minnesota Vikings,” says Robin.
“The biggest thing wrong with American Football in this country is the Americans. The American players dominate at the expense of the British lads,” he says.
Lions
“When I have to go down to South London and play Detroit Lions, it’s not fair. I want my five Americans – you bet – but I wish somebody would take that option away from me!
“We have an excellent crop of Americans, but they are not ex-professionals.”
Coach Burton, himself American-born, is delighted with the British players he has been able to develop for the Steelers.
But he admits: “We are going to have to play out of our socks to have a good year.”
Steve Gass will start as quarterback tomorrow, supported by Simon Huxford. And the Steelers will have Tom Bell, Shaun Ward and Andy Coulson in reserve.
“We are really solid in the quarterback department,” says Robin.
Shape
Scunthorpe are prepared to work as a team.
“Guys are pulling together for each other and playing for one another. We are in better shape than any of them.
“We have a very young team. And this is the best football team I have ever coached, whether the Americans are in it or not.”
Looking ahead to the season, he forecast: “It is going to be a good experience for them. Win or lose they will come out of this season a lot more experienced.
“If there were no Americans, we would have fielded one of the top 10 teams in the country, because we have the speed, the power and the skill.
“But with the Americans in it, who knows what will happen?”
For the opening fixture, Scunthorpe have injury doubts about John Strachan, Dave McCullagh and Brian Thornton.
* The game will now be at Norwegian Sports Ground, Jenkins Lane (Barking area), London E6 and not Herne Jill Stadium, Dulwich, where the pitch is waterlogged.
Steelers Defeat Ends A Day Of Misery
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, May 1
Scunthorpe Steelers’ first regular league game of the season was away to London Capitals yesterday – and they went down 34-18.
But the club’s problems began long before they took the field.
Their coach broke down and they had to wait two hours for a replacement – and three valuable players lost their way to the ground and never arrived.
The kick-off was delayed because of the motorway hitch.
The first quarter went to Steelers, 6-0, but they lost the second 20-6, and shared the third 6-6 and then the fourth quarter went to Capitals, 8-0.
Individually, American quarterback Steve Gass completed seven passes for 62 yards, his longest scoring pass being one of 24 yards to wide receiver Bob Schofield, formerly of the Steel City Giants (Sheffield).
John Wards had two reception passes for 10 yards, while Gass had 11 carries for 42 yards and Maurice Newton 16 carries for 40 yards.
In defence, last year’s top tackler, Marcus Thornton, started where he left off with nine unassisted tackles.
Titans Make It Tough For Steelers
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, May 13
Scunthorpe Steelers have a tough home game in the Combined Gridiron League tomorrow when title favourites Walsall Titans visit Quibell Park, 3pm.
Walsall have already made a promising start to their campaign with two emphatic victories over Cannock Chase Giants and Ealing Eagles and with a side featuring some impressive American players, plus some of the best British, the Steelers’ task is enormous.
Steelers are without their American USAF players as they’re engaged on military manoeuvres; and first string running back Maurice Newton is not available because of working commitments, but Simon Huxford is in at quarterback.
Steelers head coach Robin Burton’s comment today was: “We’ll do the best we can. We can’t expect it to be easy, we know what we’re up against.”
Walsall Titans head coach is Bruno Waldner who won a Euro-Bowl championship with a continental team, and Burton commented: “They’ve got probably the finest group of Americans that ever came to this country to play in Britain.”
They include Terry Morris, quarterback, Von Sheppard, running back, Martin Reid, wide receiver and Craig Otto, tight end.
They’re all former college superstars, and a couple of them are believed to have played for the Minnesota Vikings – so the Steelers know they’re in for a real game tomorrow.
Walsall Woe But Steelers’ Pride Intact
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, May 15
Scunthorpe Steelers emerged with their pride intact and a lot of credit, despite their 53-6 home defeat against title favourites Walsall Titans at Quibell Park, yesterday.
Despite the depressing scoreline Steelers head coach Robin Burton said that some good had come out of the game.
“They were a very classy side, full of top American players with their British guys just making up the numbers.
“This sort of game is great experience for our lads and we gained more yardage against them than anyone else this year, so we can hold our heads high,” he said.
The Steelers were 33-0 down at half-time, but rallied to score six good points with a great pass from Sean Ward to Steve White.
Their brave performance came under circumstances that would have broken lesser teams than Scunthorpe.
No less than 19 Steelers men were missing due to other commitments, including their entire American USAF contingent, who were away on military manoeuvres.
They also lost three key men with injuries during the game.
Paul Johnson pulled a back muscle, Simon Huxford twisted his ankle and Shay Eddy broke a finger.
It looks very likely that Walsall will be Combined Gridiron League champions, with the help of what coach Burton calls the most intimidating linebacker he has ever seen!
The Steelers aim now is for second place, which will guarantee them a play-off place in a separate half of the draw to the Titans.
Next Sunday sees the Steelers travelling down to Leicester for a fixture they are approaching with a lot of confidence.
Titans 52 Scunthorpe 6
First Down
Saturday, May 20
Titan rushers Von Sheppard and George McCrae blasted for a combined 209 yards on just 23 carries.
Sheppard opened the scoring on a one-yard dive, and Tony Morris linked up with Martin Reid on an 82-yard bomb for a 12-0 lead.
Morris’ one-yard sneak pushed the bulge further, and McCrae’s five-yarder made it 27-0.
Sheppard dived over again from the one and then added a 10-yarder. Morris fired a 17-yarder to Reid, then allowed back-up Pete Carson in.
The stand-in passer threw 15-yards to Steve White before McCrae closed out the scoring on a 28-yarder.
Coach Slams Move Rumours
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, May 20
Suggestions that Scunthorpe Steelers may be considering a move to the north bank have been described by head coach Robin Burton as ‘a load of baloney’.
He said that the Steelers had not even considered a move across to Hull, although admitting that they could do with an increase in support for their Quibell Park home games.
Burton added that although the attendances at home games ensured a break even situation, the cost of running an American Football team over a season was between $40,000 and £50,000.
Tomorrow the Steelers make the journey to Leicester Huntsmen and Burton admitted: “We’re looking for a win, this game will be much more even than that of last weekend.”
American trio Steve Gass, Greg Sandford and George Holland will be back in action, but there are doubts on the fitness of Simon Huxford, Maurice Newton and Paul Johnson, while Shay Eddy, who broke a finger last week, was hoping to get a clean bill of health after a hospital visit.
Tom Bell, who replaced Huxford, is included while 18-year-old Sean Ward, quarterback, who made four completions out of seven attempts in the late stages of the Walsall Titans clash impressed enough to warrant inclusion.
Steelers Not In Hunt At Leicester
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, May 22
The injury-depleted Scunthorpe Steelers went down to their second heavy defeat in a week, losing 21-0 at Leicester Huntsmen.
With 11 first-string players out through injury and other commitments, the Steelers were up against it from the start.
The non-appearance of their US contingent did nothing for morale, and the Leicester side took full advantage in the first half on their astro-turf pitch.
The sweltering heat didn’t help the Scunthorpe men either and they were 21-0 down at half-time.
Head Coach Robin Burton admitted responsibility for seven of those points with a coaching error, completing a sorry first half.
But things brightened somewhat after the interval. The two US players arrived and filled up the holes in the Steelers defence.
Burton was pleased that his team didn’t concede any more points in the second half.
He singled out several of his players for special praise. Tony Robinson did well in his first game as linebacker, Sean Ward performed admirably in his baptism at quarterback and Dave McCullough gave a promising display at half back.
Steve Rack had a good performance and showed his commitment by returning to battle on after being forced off with an injury.
But their coach was not satisfied with the Steelers’ overall display.
“Frankly, we should have done better, and we must put things right in our next game against Cannock Chase at Quibell Park,” he said.
That game against the Giants starts at 3pm next Sunday, and the Steelers have appealed for a good turnout to help cheer them to victory.
Bring On The Cavalry
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, May 27
Scunthorpe Steelers’ American quartet of quarterback Steve Gass, and linebackers Rich Lynn, George Holland and Greg Sandford will be in the line-up for tomorrow’s Quibell Park game, 3pm.
Opposition will be provided by Cannock Chase Giants, formerly Wrekin Giants, who like the Steelers have had three outings this term so far, winning only one of them.
Steelers president Edwin Eddy said today: “We’ve got to start winning, and we ought to be able to deal with the threat of the Giants.
“However, they are a good side and we do not underestimate their strengths, but we hope to reverse at least the 12-9 defeat we suffered when they were last here as Wrekin.”
Mr Eddy went on to outline the fact that Steelers have still a number of key players suffering injuries, but one or two he feels will play and hopefully give Steelers their first success of the campaign.
He added: “We hope to have a good contingent of players available, a good crowd and fine weather and we’re sure everyone will have a great afternoon.”
Steelers Northern Conference shows the Molineux based Titans leading the way having amassed 157 points for and conceding only 12, which has left the rest trailing in their wake.
Leicester Huntsmen are on course to take the second play-off slot, but face a tough inter-conference tie at Essex Buccaneers, who are in third place in the Southern Conference.
Results: Ealing 0, Essex 20; Leicester 21, Scunthorpe 0; C. C. Giants 6, Crawley 32; London 12, Portsmouth 42; Milton Keynes 7, Coventry 6; Swindon 8, Oxford 30; Colchester 50, Cambridge 18; Granite City 45, Inverclyde 0; Clydesdale 8, Musselburgh 0.
Super Steelers Topple Giants
By Nigel Fisher, Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, May 29
Scunthorpe Steelers gave themselves a tremendous boost yesterday when they gained their first win of the season in the Northern Conference section of the Combined Gridiron League.
And their 26-2 success over Cannock Chase Giants saw the Steelers leapfrog into third place, which was good news for the club and the good sized crowd on such an excellent afternoon.
First times for the Steelers were quarterback Shaun Ward, and running backs Dave McCullough and Tony ‘Boldrick’ Robinson, and although termed ‘rookies’ in the game, they rose to the occasion extremely well and with a little more experience could well provide solid backing to the Scunthorpe side.
Defensive star as ‘old man’ and linebacker Terry Wells opened the scoring though a 25-yard intercepted pass; and Baz Mumby quickly added to that with a 10-yard run.
Wide receiver Andy Grainger was next on the sheet, following a 25-yard pass play from Shaun Ward.
The Cannock Chase Giants’ two points came via a Steelers offence in safety.
However, Steelers were quickly back on a recovery situation with Chris Carr running the ball for a 20-yard touchdown and their final two points came when Shaun Ward set up Steve White.
The unluckiest player was tight end Paete Carson who was called back after a 60-uard run for an infringement while on the injury front Shaun Ward had to leave with knee ligament trouble, Dave McCullough lost a toe nail and Terry Wells is likely to be out for a couple of weeks after fracturing a rib.
Steelers were also without Martin Russell who was ejected for punching an opponent.
Steelers Hope To Topple Spitfires
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, June 3
After breaking the ice with their first win of the season last weekend, Scunthorpe Steelers are looking to further success from their visit to Stoke Spitfires tomorrow.
Spitfires are acknowledged as the weakest team in the Northern Conference, a fact justified by their bottom placing and miserable score tally of 26 from their three outings.
That’s not to say the Steelers are going to the Potteries with any pre-conceived ideas of an easy win – they’re not, but they will certainly be disappointed with anything other than a maximum return.
The Steelers are still likely to have a depleted squad, with defensive lineman Steve Rack certainly missing after receiving a knee injury in last week’s 26-2 victory over Cannock Chase Giants that has proved more troublesome than first thought.
Ankle trouble is also sure to keep quarterback Simon Huxford out of the action, while Martin Russell, who was ejected against the Giants, has to miss automatically.
But quarterback Shaun Ward and running backs Dave McCullough and Tony ‘Boldrick’ Robinson are in the squad – and it is hoped that Bob Scholfield will be back after injury.
American Greg Sandford will not be making the Stoke trip – he’s completing a tour of duty, but the other States players will be available – and the defense will be unchanged.
Supporters are asked to note that transport leaves Ashby Ville at 9am sharp on Sunday.
Spitfires Gun Down Steelers
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, June 5
Scunthorpe Steelers’ fortunes nose-dived again yesterday when they went down 13-12 to bottom-placed Stoke Spitfires in the Northern Conference of the American Football League.
It was a fourth defeat in five outings for the South Humberside outfit who have little left to play for now but their pride – and to begin preparing for next season.
Stoke, who had lost all their three previous games, snatched victory in the final minute with a touchdown which was successfully converted.
“It was a big disappointment for us,” confessed Steelers’ spokesman Shay Eddy.
“Once again we were badly hit by injuries. We had Martin Russell missing through suspension and three of our American players got lost on the way and did not arrive until the final quarter.
“We had to throw in some rookie player again, but they did well, particularly men like Dave McCullough and Tony Robinson.
“Although we have had a disappointing season, there have been several good points, especially our younger players.
“We know where we have gone wrong and we will work to put it right next season.
“The younger players will be given their chance to get experience, even if it costs us results for the rest of this season.”
Without five key players yesterday, Scunthorpe welcomed back Maurice Newton into action, even though he was not fully fit.
They opened the scoring with a touchdown from Pete Carson, only for Stoke to equalise with a long completion.
Sean Ward, playing in an unfamiliar quarterback role, put them ahead again with another touchdown.
That looked like being enough to earn them victory, but a mistake inside the final minute allowed Stoke to grab an equalising touchdown, then kick the extra point for victory.
Next Sunday, the Steelers will be looking to make amends when they entertain Leicester Huntsmen at Quibell Park.
Hoping To Shoot Down Spitfires
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, June 10
Scunthorpe Steelers are fired up and ready to give their all to try and reverse their defeat at Stoke Spitfires last weekend when they host the Potteries side at Quibell Park tomorrow, 3pm.
But the Steelers have received something of a setback this week with the news defensive lineman Steve Rack is likely to be out for the rest of the season with a torn cartilage that is going to need hospital treatment – and that could mean quite a wait for an operation.
And quarterback Simon Huxford is still sidelined with an ankle injury that is taking longer to heal than was at first thought: similar trouble has thwarted running back Maurice Newton who played last week but was only at about 60 per cent fitness, but still managed to return to two fine 100 yarders.
However better news is that American Michael Gray could be returning and he’s a lightning defensive back, just the sort of man the Steelers could do with at the moment while defensive back Chris Carr may also get a run-out, as he’s feeling much better after an illness that has kept him out for some time.
Sean Ward who is really only a ‘learner’ to the game is sure to be in at quarterback; he did quite well at Stoke last week, is a quick learner and is a Steelers player of the future.
Top tackler of last year Marcus Thornton’s quality play is taking him rapidly into the same situation again this term, while his fellow linebacker John Osibote who has been busy with exams may make a return to the side at Quibell Park.
Steelers will be hoping to return to winning ways tomorrow; and should they do so the play-offs are still a mathematical possibility.
However, line coach Shay Eddy commented: “We’re playing for our pride as much as anything and we aim to be trying out a lot of new things against the Spitfires; their tactics of last week are still very fresh in our minds and we aim to combat them to the best of our ability – although it must be stressed we’re suffering more than our share of injuries.”
Nevertheless the Steelers are fired up – and hoping to shoot down the Spitfires who stole last weekends’ game by kicking the extra point in the closing 40 seconds.
Ref’s ‘Life Risk’ Fear – Steelers Match Abandoned
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, June 12
Controversy raged at Quibell Park yesterday with the Scunthorpe Steelers versus Stoke Spitfires American Football game being abandoned with 20 seconds to go, the referee claiming he was in fear of his life.
Kevin Bowman, from Hull, brought the bad-tempered game to a premature halt with Stoke leading 32-24 against a Steelers side who felt aggrieved at some decisions from the officials.
The game boiled over at the end as Steelers’ Martyn Russell, off the field, stormed over to the referee, grabbed his flag and thrust it down his shirt.
Steelers’ boss Edwin Eddy has suspended Russell for the rest of the season, but all the club officials felt there were extenuating circumstances for his action.
Russell had been penalised after making what seemed a perfectly fair block in a situation that could have left the Scunthorpe side way out in front.
The referee had to call the Stoke players off the field in an unprecedented move, as they were 12-0 down, in the first half.
He ejected one of their players, and his team-mates crowded round to protest, and were ordered off by the harassed official.
But incredibly, after two minutes, he allowed them all back on, including the player who had been permanently removed from play.
“If the game was to be abandoned – surely then was the time,” Steelers line coach Shay Eddy said.
He felt the game became a complete shambles after this, and placed the blame on the shoulders of the referee.
“How is it that the same two sides met last week, without a hint of trouble and with Steelers awarded 10 out of 10 for sportsmanship by a different crew of officials?
“All the trouble that happened was a direct result of ignorant refereeing. The referee claimed he was in fear of his life, this is ridiculous, he just lost complete control, and anyone who saw the game would agree,” he said.
Steelers’ coach Robin Burton would not comment on the official’s performance, but praised the majority of his team for their conduct.
Ward and Mumby were effective, along with Mumby’s back-up, McCullough, Carson and receiver Cass also did well.
Steelers’ downfall was their defence’s inability to deal with Stoke’s passing game which ultimately cost them dearly.
Next week the Steelers travel to take on Cannock Chase Giants.
Match Official Says Facts Are Wrong – Steelers Result Stands
By Howard Foster, Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Wednesday, June 14
With controversy raging over events at Scunthorpe Steelers’ latest match that saw the match abandoned by a fearful referee, the league are keeping a dignified silence.
Combined Gridiron League commissioner Steve Turtle was at the Quibell Park game, but refuses to comment on the incidents that marred the Steelers versus Stoke Spitfires fixtures.
These included the whole Stoke side being sent off at one stage, and an infuriated Scunthorpe player pushing the referee’s flag down his shirt.
“We will take no action until the officials give us written confirmation of any incidents,” Mr Turtle said.
“If and when we get a specific complaint from an official, then that is the time to look into the matter,” he stressed.
He did confirm that the score at the time of the abandonment – 34-24 to the visitors – would stand as the result of the match.
Spokesman from the Steelers on Monday blamed poor refereeing for the chaos that happened during the match.
Line coach Shay Eddy commented when the two teams met a week before, under different match officials, there was not a hint of trouble.
But one of the match officials has answered the Steelers’ allegations claiming that they have got their facts wrong.
Neil Sears hit back at suggestions of the referee’s incompetence.
“We all worked together as a team, perfectly well and the blame for all the trouble must rest with certain irresponsible players,” he said.
“He denies that a Stoke player had been ejected, an incident Steelers claimed had led to the whole side being ‘sent off’.
“The referee asked them all to go over to their coach and get a team talk to calm down.
“He told them to stop their stupidity and threatened them that if they did not behave, he would replace them all. After this, they came back and got on with the game.
“At half-time the referee warned both coaches to keep their players in order – he was in control of a difficult situation,” Mr Sears stressed.
“As for the ref not being in any danger, I saw him in the dressing room after the game, and he was shaking like a leaf.
“Anyone would be frightened if a player followed them around the pitch shouting threats.
“Russell had to be held off by Terry Wells, one of his team-mates, and it’s a good thing he was!” Sears added.
Referees Threat To Steelers
By Howard Foster, Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Thursday, June 15
Scunthorpe Steelers’ immediate future has been thrown into doubt after club officials turned down what they called a ‘ridiculous’ request from the Combined Gridiron league’s refereeing body.
A letter has been sent to the American Football club stating that no refereeing crews will officiate at their matches, home or away, unless a uniformed police officer is on hand throughout the entire game.
It came from Bill Bowsher of the British American Football Referees Association disciplinary committee.
It follows an alleged assault at Sunday’s Quibell Park game where Steelers’ Martyn Russell pushed the referee’s flag down his shirt in protest at some questionable decisions.
Steelers’ president, Edwin Eddy, is furious at the tone of the letter and its contents.
“BAFRA is supposed to be a democratic body but they have referred to ‘an assault’ without even bothering to hear our side of the story.
“Where is the justice in condemning us without hearing both versions of the argument?
“There is absolutely no way we will agree to this preposterous request,” he stormed.
Mr Eddy has confirmed that his side, which contains a number of Grimsby area players, will be travelling to their next scheduled fixture at Cannock Chase Giants on Sunday.
“But I will make once concession to BAFRA’s request,” Mr Eddy said.
“Any volunteer can come along on the coach and we will kit them out in a comic policeman’s outfit, complete with red nose! If BAFRA wish to be childish, we can do the same,” he said.
Steelers’ head coach Robin Burton, who refrained from making a comment earlier this week, has now gone on record with his views, making it plain he is furious with match official Neil Sears for his comments.
Burton said: “It is highly unethical for an official to be quoted. I’ve been involved in the game for 30 years and the officials’ actions were childish – they didn’t know what they were doing from beginning to end.
“There was flag after flag for verbals between players of both teams talking to their colleagues – they were simply not capable of controlling the game, they were more wound up than the players.
“If they want to start a war, we’ll play. There was only one official with the bottle to do anything – the others were ‘wimps’.
“Neil Sears is not a bad official, but it’s highly unethical for an official to speak out – that needs to be said.”
Steelers Chasing The Action
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, June 17
Scunthorpe Steelers, who have been making more headlines off the field this week than on it, return to action tomorrow with a Gridiron League fixture at Cannock Chase.
“The match definitely goes ahead,” confirmed Steelers’ spokesman Shay Eddy following threats from BAFRA, the referee’s association, to boycott Scunthorpe’s games.
Following last Sunday’s game at Quibell Park, when the Steelers’ fixture against Stoke Spitfires was abandoned 20 seconds from the end by the referee, who later claimed he was in ‘fear for his life’, BAFRA have insisted a uniformed police officer must now be present at all future Scunthorpe matches.
“Cannock Chase have agreed to have a uniformed officer ‘on guard’ so we are hoping there will be no problems tomorrow,” said Eddy.
But the Steelers are far from happy with the BAFRA demand and are taking legal advice about the possibility of taking court action against the referees’ body.
“We are not in action at home again until July 16th, but the way things stand at the present we will not be having a police presence at Quibell Park,” Eddy insisted.
“We will not provide a police guard unless we have the opportunity of taking part in a proper disciplinary hearing so we can put our side of the case.
“At the moment BAFRA are just going on the report of the referee and we feel this is totally unfair.
“We are not taking this matter lightly and might have to go to court to get some satisfaction.
“If necessary we will bring in our own referees from one of the American bases here in England, or even fly one in from Europe.
“Cannock Chase have agreed to provide a police presence so tomorrow’s game can go ahead, but they are not very happy about it.”
Eddy also revealed that the Steelers now face a charge of “bringing the game into disrepute” following a comment they have made in the Evening Telegraph this week as a result of last Sunday’s saga.
The Steelers had quipped that they would provide a guard dressed up in a comic policeman’s uniform.
Star Quits In Disgust
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, June 19
Scunthorpe Steelers’ England international Martyn Russell has quit the game for good following the huge row that flared up at last week’s match.
Versatile offensive line player, Russell (31), has turned his back on the sport he has played for over four years after being accused of assault on the referee during the Steelers v Stoke Spitfires clash.
It is a charge he utterly denies, and is what he calls the ‘final straw’ in a season that has disillusioned him about the sport.
“I am leaving with a clear conscience. I have always played hard but fair, and never gone out to hurt anybody,” he declared.
Pathetic
“All I did was put a tiny flag down the ref’s shirt but he and his governing body are trying to say that he thought I was going to kill him – it’s pathetic.”
Russell felt the refereeing at the Quibell Park match had been the worst by all four officials that he had ever seen.
“Referees like Mr Bowman at that match have never played the game, and are succeeding in ruining it for everyone else,” he said.
Russell also refuted claims that he chased the referee after the game and threatened him.
“I walked over to him and told him I had packed in the game thanks to people like him – and that’s all I did,” he insisted.
Russell said there was no way he would reverse his decision to leave the sport that gave him four good seasons, highlights of which included appearances for the North of England and for the full international team against Australia.
“I wish the Steelers all the best and I’ll miss all my mates there but I feel my decision is the right one,” he concluded.
He will now switch his attentions to other sports, including watching Rugby League, and returning to his previous passion for half-marathon running.
Steelers Bounce Back With Win
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, June 19
After the controversy of the previous week, Scunthorpe Steelers got down to the business of re-establishing themselves as a winning force yesterday with a 7-0 win at Cannock Chase Giants.
They had only 22 players making the trip to the Midlands – but they all gave valuable service on an afternoon when the boiling heat made things difficult.
But the Scunthorpe side made their intentions plain when they made the winning score early on with a fine run from full back George Holland. Pete Carson kicked the extra point.
And they were a shade unlucky when Andy Grainger, wide receiver, made a 40-yard pass but was called back for holding on the offensive line.
Steelers’ defensive display was superb in keeping the Cannock Chase Giants at bay and hit of the week came from ‘old man’ linebacker Terry Wells.
While it may be invidious to single out any players for special mention, two who were especially outstanding were tight end John Ward and Richard Green for his safety play.
Injuries were suffered by Dave McCullough, who twisted his knee badly, but he hopes to be fit for the next outing. Holland twisted his ankle, while Shaun Ward damaged a hand and was replaced by Andy Coulson who performed well.
Steelers’ line coach Shay Eddy commented: “The referees were excellent as they have been in all our trips into the Midlands – we had a husband and wife team who did very well and kept the game going and they were all full of plaudits for the way we played.”
After being ordered to have a uniformed police officer on duty at future games by the referees’ association, Scunthorpe entered into the spirit of the game on Sunday with a number of their travelling fans dressing up as ‘Peelers’.
Next weekend the Steelers will be at Quibell Park for the Motor Show and Jumbulance spectacular, giving a pass ball demonstration, with players being split into those from Grimsby likely to meet the Scunthonians, which should provide for good entertainment.
Steelers’ Dream Dies
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, July 17
Scunthorpe Steelers’ dreams of a last-gasp play-off place were cruelly dashed yesterday as they went down 43-0 at home to Leicester Huntsmen.
A hard fought Quibell Park clash saw the visitors outplay Scunthorpe in every department and it was a sorry group that trouped off at the end of the game.
Coach Robin Burton was disappointed with the Steelers’ game, and blamed a lack of teamwork for the result.
“You reap what you sow in this game, and a lack of training this year has resulted in our players not gelling together,” he said.
Burton stressed that his players would be going all out to make amends in the final game of the season, at Quibell Park next Sunday against the unbeaten Heathrow Jets.
“We know it will be very tough but I can guarantee a better performance than yesterday, for the sake of pride,” he stressed.
Steelers Go Down
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, July 24
Scunthorpe Steelers were beaten 35-2 by high-flying Heathrow Jets in their final match of the season at Quibell Park yesterday.
Marcus Thornton scored the points for the South Humberside outfit who have had a disappointing summer.
“We are just pleased to have got this season out of the way,” said Steelers chief Edwin Eddy.
“We are already looking forward to next year and we will do much better,” he promised.
Scunthorpe Steelers News 1989
