Brooks On The Books

First Down

Saturday, March 31

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Canadian QB Dan Brooks has fallen on his feet in Scunthorpe after his shot at starring with Leeds fell through.

Sharp Steelers’ supremo Shay Eddy grabbed Brookes, who was elbowed when Leeds’ 1989 passer Gregg Thelen opted for another season in the UK.

*The Steelers have picked up experienced coach Johnny Gurga and 13 players from defunct neighbours Lincoln.

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New Look Steelers Open Up At Home

Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Saturday, April 28

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Scunthorpe Steelers kick off their new season tomorrow with a game against Stoke Spitfires at Quibell Park (3pm).

It will be a new look Steelers this summer, playing in a newly-named competition, the NCMMA League.

The coach is former Florida-based John Gurga who has been with Lincoln Bombers in the past three seasons and has brought with him a number of his old team’s top players.

Several of the Scunthorpe ‘old guard’ remain from last season, but they are pinning their hopes this time on two brand new recruits from the other side of the Atlantic.

One is quarterback Kenny Jones who arrived in this country earlier this week from college football in the United States, and the other is Canadian linebacker, Dan Brooks.

“After a bitterly disappointing season last year we hope to do much better this time,” said Steelers’ spokesman Shay Eddy.

“We have not had much time to prepare and are perhaps four or five weeks behind some of the other teams and, though we start off as the underdogs, I am confident we can do well.”

The new NCMMA is split up into four sections with 19 teams taking part in all.

There are five teams in Scunthorpe’s division who play each other home and away – Stoek, Rockingham, Leicester and Cambridge.

There are also two inter-conference fixtures against Manchester at home and Aberdeen away.

The season runs for 10 straight weekends, starting this Sunday, and the top two teams from each section qualify for the play-offs, which are one a straight knockout basis.

Scunthorpe’s fixtures are: April 29 Stoke (home); May 6 Manchester (home); May 12 Stoke (away); May 20 Rockingham (away); May 27 Aberdeen (away); June 3 Cambridge (away); June 10 Leicester (home); June 17 Cambridge (home); June 24 Leicester (away); July 1 Rockingham (home); July 15 quarter-finals; July 22 semi-finals; July 29 final.

 

Jones The Star As Steelers Triumph

Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Monday, April 30

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American quarterback Kenny Jones was the start of the show as Scunthorpe Steelers opened their new season in the NCMMA League with an encouraging 43-26 victory against Stoke Spitfires.

Hones, who flew in from the United States only last week to join Canadian Dan Brooks, scored two touchdowns himself and helped create two others.

“We played really well, and although we were rusty in parts, I believe the potential is there for a championship challenge this year,” said team spokesman Shay Eddy.

“We were really happy with the way we performed to score over 40 points for the first time in three years.”

It was Stoke though who scored first with a touchdown but as they tried to kick the extra point the ball was charged down by Terry Wells who ran the full length of the pitch before feeding Chris Carr for a two point touchdown.

One of Scunthorpe’s old hands from last year, Maurice Newton, was next on the scoresheet with Andy Flippance, who kicked well throughout, adding the extra point.

The lead changed hands several times in the first half before the Steelers managed to get their noses in front 23-20 at the end of the second quarter.

It was the third quarter which proved to be decisive with Scunthorpe putting 18 points on the board without reply.

Jones, increasing in influence throughout, ran in for two touchdowns and passed for two others.

Phil Wright and Gio Viscomi each ran in for a touchdown while Viscomi and Sean Richards received touchdown passes.

Steve White was the top receiver and Canadian Brooks stiffened the Steelers’ defensive formation.

Match honours, though, went to quarterback Jones who was impressed with his first view of American Football played in Britain.

“The British guys do not believe how good they are,” he declared.

“If they are prepared to practise and practise to get things right we could have a championship-winning team here.”

Scunthorpe’s only real fault yesterday was in conceding too many penalties.

They are in action at Quibell Park again next Sunday (3pm) when they take on their old rivals Manchester Heroes.

 

King Ken Steels It

Scunthorpe 43 Stoke 26

First Down

Saturday, May 5

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Import passer Kenny Jones shot down the Spitfires with a brace of rushing TDs and scoring passes.

Jones stormed into the end zone from 64 and 14 yards and connected with Shawn Richards and Gio Viscomi from 15 and 16.

Terry Wells produced the highlight of the game when he recovered a fumble and returned it 85 yards only to be tackled at the two-yard line.

But as he fell, Wells sensationally fired a lateral to Chris Carr for a stunning TD.

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Steelers Face Their Old Rivals

Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Saturday, May 5

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Scunthorpe Steelers are planning to continue their fine start to the season when old rivals Manchester Heroes visit Quibell Park on Sunday, 3pm.

And the home team should have the psychological edge with the acquisition of several more players into the team pool.

Wide receiver Simon Huxford has re-signed for the campaign, as have the Stow brothers, Glenn, Steve and Dave, after two years ‘in exile’ with Leeds Cougars!

Another coup is the signing of Alan Chambers, a capable quarterback who will be a valuable assistant coach for the Scunthorpe team.

Another ex-Lincoln Bombers man, John Smith, has joined the fray and the Steelers can now boast two-deep strength in every position.

With Canadian linebacker and American quarterback Kenny Jones in the team, the Scunthorpe side now has a quality look to it.

“Strength in depth is what we’ve got here now, and it’s got to bode well for the season,” assistant coach Shay Eddy enthused.

Scunthorpe will need no motivation for the clash with the Heroes.

Several stirring battles have taken place between the teams in recent years.

Some added spice comes with the group of ex-Lincoln men now on Steelers ‘books’. Lincoln had two very close games with Manchester last term, once of which saw them beaten due to a dubious decision...

“Certainly no incentives are needed for a hard game from our boys,” Eddy stressed.

The Heroes come to Scunthorpe still reeling from a 78-26 defeat at the hands of the strong Walsall Titans a fortnight ago, but they did show signs of being a fair unit in that game and Steelers will have to play to their potential.

 

Injury Blow For Steelers’ Canadian Ace

Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Monday, May 7

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Disaster struck for Scunthorpe Steelers at Quibell Park yesterday as they went down 26-16 to Manchester Heroes, and saw top player Dan Brooks suffer a broken arm.

The Canadian linebacker, upon whom many Steelers hopes have been rested this season, suffered the smash to his left arm, and carried on playing until he was kicked by a Manchester running back while lying on the floor.

The popular 22-year-old player was operated on yesterday and is expected to be out for between eight and ten weeks.

But Steelers are putting on a brave face after this bitter blow, and after a home defeat against their keenest rivals from Manchester.

It could have been so different, however, as Scunthorpe took an early lead, and looked likely to continue their winning run.

They were 16-14 up at the halfway stage, with the points coming from two touchdowns from Maurice Newton and a field goal kicked by Andy Flippance.

The game was wide open until the third quarter, and then some costly mistakes cost the Steelers the chance of victory.

They failed to field a punt, resulting in a touchdown for the opposition, and from then on it was downhill all the way.

But assistant coach Shay Eddy refused to be too negative after the defeat.

“Obviously it’s a big blow to lose Dan, and we can’t rush him back too quickly and jeopardise is career in the U.S.A, but he’s going to be very useful to us on the coaching side and this will be a big benefit.

“Dan’s a great character – he would play with his caste on if he could!”

The Steelers are now considering importing another player to stand-in for Brooks, and despite the expense, this looks a likely move.

Intimidating

Eddy also took heart from the discipline of his team, against a very physical Manchester team who are renowned for their intimidating tactics.

“To lose to Manchester was disappointing, but I was proud of the display from our boys. They committed nine personal fouls, and we committed none, never retaliating once.

“This is a fine record on a boiling hot day when tempers could have easily flared,” Eddy said.

Steelers are now looking ahead to Saturday when they have an evening game under the floodlights at Stoke.

“They are not a bad side. I saw them beat Leicester Huntsmen last week, but we have beaten them, and are confident we can do it again,” Eddy stressed.

 

Scunthorpe 16 Manchester 26

First Down

Saturday, May 12

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Scunthorpe’s 16-0 lead crashed when, right on half-time, Canadian linebacker Dan Brooks broke his wrist in the 26-16 game.

Maurice Newton ran in the first points for the Steelers from nine and 29 yards, and Andy Flippant added a 24-yard kick.

Kevin Leonard ran in from three yards to put Manchester back in the game and QB Larry Goth found receiver Jim Nendel with an eight-yard pass to tie things up.

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Steelers Defeat Never Happened!

Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Saturday, May 12

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Scunthorpe Steelers go into their first ever floodlit game, at Stoke tonight, with an unexpected points bonus under their belts.

Last week’s opponents, Manchester Heroes, who defeated the Steelers 26-16 at Quibell Park, folded in midweek due to severe financial problems.

Their fixtures are now scrubbed from the record, with their opponents all awarded victories over them.

The League are currently pondering whether the result will be logged as either a 1-0 win, or as a 16-0 win (the number of points Steelers scored).

Steelers assistant coach Shay Eddy expressed sadness at the demise of the Manchester side, but said he was grateful for any points that came their way!

Surprised

“It’s a shame that they had to fold, and I’m surprised that in a city as big as Manchester someone couldn’t have been found to give them some backing,” he said.

But there is no place for sentiment in the game, and with star linebacker Dan Brooks operated on yesterday for his badly broken arm sustained against Manchester, Steelers are under strength for tonight’s match.

Also missing are three members of the offence – Steve Stowe, Paul Lomax and Sean Ward; and Brooks and two others form the defence.

Steelers are still confident of getting a victory, however, against the side they bet 43-26 in the first match of the season.

“We will give some of our rookies a chance, and we know they won’t let us down,” Eddy stressed.

With Canadian star Brooks out of playing action, Scunthorpe have gained an experienced coach who is a fine motivator for the team.

He will be on the sidelines for about six weeks, and aims to be fit should Steelers reach the play-offs, and for next season back in the U.S.A.

A win tonight would put the club’s season back on track and preserve the ‘unbeaten’ record into week four!

 

Injuries No Bother For Steelers

Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Monday, May 14

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Scunthorpe Steelers shrugged off injuries to six key men to record an emphatic 38-0 win down at Stoke on Saturday.

Despite taking only 28 players with them, Scunthorpe never looked in any danger of defeat as they completed the double over the team they beat at Quibell Park two weeks ago.

The pattern of the game was set early on after a touchdown in the first quarter from Kenny Jones, from an 11 yard run, with the point kicked by Andy Flippance.

Steelers, with their confidence boosted by the early lead, went for two field goals in the second quarter, but both went wide, and at the halfway mark the score remained just 7-0.

Spectacular

But they really turned the screw in the third quarter, with Jones diving full length to take a spectacular catch from Maurice Newton in the end zone for another touchdown. Flippance kicked the point.

Steve White then took a 16 yard pass from Jones in the end zone, to put the game well out of the home side’s reach, with Flippance again on target.

In the final quarter, the Steelers made an 80 yard that ended with Baz Mumby taking a seven yard pass for a touchdown, with Flippance kicking the extra point.

The fifth and final touchdown was a triumph for Paul Wright, playing a tight end, who took a 15 yard reception and then pushed through the three men in his way for the touchdown, with Flippance keeping up his 100 per cent record with a successful kick.

The final statistics of this victory saw Steelers’ offence make 295 yards rushing, 140 yards passing and scoring five touchdowns.

Sean Ward was praised after the game by assistant coach Shay Eddy, for playing despite heavy strapping on a shoulder injury.

Pete Carson suffered a broken hand in the game and Fox twisted his knee.

As promised, the Steelers fielded several rookies, with local youngster Andy Clark, a defensive lineman, taking the honours.

The defence’s top man was cornerback Rick Green who marked Stoke’s dangerman out of the game, with Steelers taking points for safety on two occasions.

Again the discipline of the team was good, with Stoke not able to make any impression. The home side also saw one of their players sent off for throwing the ball at an official.

On the injuries front things are looking up for the Steelers with Canadian linebacker Dan Brooks released from hospital today after having his arm pinned up.

He will be out for between four and six weeks, but a former team-mate from North America is joining him in Scunthorpe this week.

Cornerback John Schnell, six foot three and 200 pounds is also a top class basketball player, and should add another dimension to the team.

Next week’s scheduled game at Rockingham has been postponed due to a problem with ground availability.

Steelers are now contemplating their next match, up at Aberdeen, in a fortnight’s time.

 

Kenny Mixes The Six

Stoke 0 Scunthorpe 35

First Down

Saturday, May 19

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Scunthorpe travelled to Stoke minus six starters but never missed them, running up 28 points in the second behind QB Kenny Jones.

Jones opened the scoring with an 11-yard run and followed up with TD passes to Maurice Newton from 11 yards and Steve White from 16.

Baz Mumby scorched in from the seven, Carl Leonard picked up a safety and converted guard Phil Wright – in his debut at tight end – latched onto a 15-yarder.

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Major Coup As Steelers Sign Top Running Back

By Howard Foster, Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Monday, May 21

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Scunthorpe Steelers are today celebrating the biggest transfer coup in their history after securing the services of the country’s top running back, Von Sheppard.

Bubbling over with excitement at securing the signature of the ex-Walsall Titans man, Steelers assistant coach Shay Eddy described the buy as the equivalent of Scunthorpe United signing Ian Rush!

An American citizen, Sheppard was a star player for the Titans side that excelled last season, and took the honours as the League’s leading rusher.

He also played for top ten college team, Nebraska University, back in the States.

Title Bid

The 25-year-old old player, who can also play as a receiver, is the final piece in Scunthorpe’s puzzle as they bid for the title, Eddy says.

“He was keen to sign for us after playing against us last year and seeing what sort of set-up we’ve got,” Eddy explained.

“Von also likes the area, and hopes to get fixed up with a full-time job here with a view to settling in Britain permanently.”

The modest American will soon be reunited with his wife and baby when they travel over to Britain, and is very optimistic about his – and the Steelers’ – future.

“I’m not a miracle worker, but I see no reason why I can’t help Scunthorpe go for the championship.

“There’s a great atmosphere here, and no I’m just looking forward to playing,” he said.

Scunthorpe beat off opposition from several other British clubs for the highly-rated player.

With other top quality players such as Dan Brooks – albeit injured at present – and Kenny Jones, the Steelers have set their sights on the very top under head coach John Gurga.

Good Wins

At present they have played three games, with two convincing wins against Stoke under their belt.

They did lose against Manchester Heroes but were awarded the match when the club went out of business. But news this week is that the Heroes have been saved by a business consortium, and the original 28-16 result will stand.

Steelers were without a game this weekend but visit Aberdeen on Saturday.

Ironically, Sheppard’s last game for the Titans was against Aberdeen, where he tormented their defence with some superb football.

“I guess they won’t be too pleased to see me again so soon!” he joked.

Home fans get their first chance to see the new star at Quibell Park the following Sunday, against Leicester Huntsmen.

“They beat us twice last season, but they’ve got a big surprise when they see our teams this time around,” Eddy stressed.

“We’re going to repay them – with interest!”

 

Von Gone!

First Down

Saturday, May 26

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Record-busting Titans tailback Von Sheppard has been sensationally transferred from the high-flying Midlanders to NCMMA neighbour Scunthorpe.

The former University of Nebraska ace – who played through the 1988 pre-season with Minnesota of the NFL – was the leading light of the Titans’ drive to the ’89 CGL title.

But as the West Midlands returned to Britain for his second season, he revealed he wanted to stay here full-time – but needed an off-season job.

“He wished to stay in the country full-time but there were some problems,” said Titans’ owner Terry Clark.

Ecstatic

“Then employment opportunities opened up for him in the Scunthorpe are and as you can imagine, Shay and Edwin Eddy were more than happy to offer him a place.”

Steelers GM Shay was ecstatic at being able to land the man he dubbed: “the best running back in Britain, without a doubt.

“We are in the age of cheque-book football,” he said. “And we have to build the best team we can.

“He’s got degrees in various languages and experience in finance, and there are many international companies moving to Humberside.”

Sheppard was also chuffed at the move, and announced his wife Crystal will be joining him,

“I had no second thoughts, it’s in my best interests to be here,” he said. “Of course me being here is going to help the team. We’re looking for the Championship.”

 

Steelers Sign Top American Coach

Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Saturday, May 26

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Scunthorpe Steelers have taken on another top class coach in their bid for League honours this season, Anti Marino.

A top defensive coach, he has the second highest winning totals of any coach ever in the state of Pennsylvania.

He was recommended to Scunthorpe by the Pittsburgh Steelers and joined the rapidly expanding ranks this week.

Marino will link up with Steelers’ chief coach John Gurga in a potentially dynamic coaching combination.

“We now have two of the best minds in football on our side,” enthused assistant coach Shay Eddy.

Tough Tie

The new coaching staff are preparing the team for a very tough tie tomorrow, up in Aberdeen against the Granite City Oilers.

The Scots destroyed Coventry Bears last week, 40-6, and are a daunting prospect on their own ground.

To add to their difficulty Scunthorpe are without several key players for the weekend stop-over trip.

Injuries and work commitments mean that a depleted squad will be representing the town.

Positive Sign

But a positive sign this week has been the work in training of new running back Von Sheppard.

“He looks very sharp and can’t wait to make his debut,” Eddy said.

The top American player is settling in well in Scunthorpe and was joined yesterday by his wife and baby.

He will be used as an offensive decoy on Sunday – with the Aberdeen defence well aware of his skill, having faced him when he was a Walsall player.

On the injuries front, Dan Brooks went in to hospital to have the pins removed from his damaged arm yesterday and should be back in action in a few weeks.

The offensive line will be without John Smith who broke his left hand in training last week, but Peter Carson will play, with his injured hand well strapped up.

 

Steelers Climb To Top Of Table

Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Monday, May 28

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Scunthorpe Steelers went top of the Midlands Division of the NCMMA with a well earned 64-36 triumph in Aberdeen yesterday against the Granite City Oilers.

It proved to be a spectacular debut for 25-year-old Von Sheppard, the American who was the top running back in England last season with Walsall Titans.

Sheppard, who finished the game with bruised ribs, scored five touchdowns for the injury-hit Scunthorpe squad who were without virtually their complete first choice defensive line.

They could muster only 25 players for the trip to Scotland and suffered further injury blows to Paul Lomax (knee) and Pete Carson (Achilles).

But in a tough game the Steelers battled well, winning 23 first downs and gaining 600 yards on the offence.

There were other touchdowns from Gio Viscomi (2), Phil Rack and Kenny Jones, with the latter also passing for two touchdowns.

There were also outstanding displays from Rick Green and Dave McCullagh as Scunthorpe came from behind early in the game to snatch their third victory of the season and replace Cambridge at the head of the Midlands Division.

The Steelers were 28-20 in front at the half-way stage and clinched their success by scoring 20 points without reply in the third quarter of the game.

It sets them up for an exciting tussle next Sunday at Cambridge, with the winners, even at this early stage, likely to finish champions of the division.

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Scunthorpe 64 Granite City 36

First Down

Saturday, June 2

 

Magic Man Von Shepard turned on the thrills north of the border Sunday, leading his new team-mates to a 64-point scoring blitz of Granite City.

The University of Nebraska sensation battered the hapless Scots for 190 yards and four TDS off only 11 carries, and added an 18-yard scoring grab for good measure.

Sheppard’s backup Gio Viscomi added 183 yards and two TDS as the Steelers racked up 550 yards total offense.

Thrilled Steelers boss Shay Eddy poured tribute on his new signing, predicting his fired-up squad is play-off bound.

“Von was excellent, we are very impressed with him. He suffered a rib injury in the game and still carried on playing.”

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Tough Clash For Steelers
By Howard Foster, Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, June 2

Scunthorpe Steelers are expecting a tough and physical encounter when they visit Cambridge on Sunday.
With the Steelers sitting proudly on top of the division and the southern team in second place, needless to say the game is vital.
Von Sheppard and Kenny Jones are both fit and raring to go again after last week’s superb win on the rock hard pitch up at Aberdeen, and despite several injury doubts, Scunthorpe are confident.
Centre Paul Lomax is out for the next two weeks, and assistant coach Shay Eddy will be standing in form him. Mark Francis is struggling to shake off an ankle injury and will also miss the game.
Former Lincoln Bombers defensive back Andy Smart has signed for Scunthorpe this week, as the regular flow of quality players into Steelers’ ranks continues.
And two former players have re-signed this week after a couple of seasons’ absence.
Offensive linesman Jim Sparling has ‘joined up’ again, as has the youngest brother of the Eddy family, Paul, who has finally shaken off his ankle injuries and various concussion problems.
With defensive coach Anti Marino altering the formation and in some cases the personnel on defense, Scunthorpe are beginning to look like real championship contenders.
After Sunday the outlook could be even brighter…

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Vital Win Keeps Steelers On Top
By Howard Foster, Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, June 4

Scunthorpe Steelers triumphed in their top-table clash at Cambridge yesterday, but the narrow 28-26 scoreline does not reflect their superiority in the game.
Most of Cambridge’s points came in the final quarter, with Steelers ending the third quarter 22-6 in front.
Again under-strength Scunthorpe had some offensive players playing in defence, but did not take long to settle into their game.
They were stung into action after the home side took the lead.
In Control
Kenny Jones repaired the damage, running in for a touchdown from 11 yards, and then Maurice Newton took a 26-yard pass from Jones.
From then on Steelers were in control, with new signing Von Sheppard again in fine form, continuing from his superlative performance in last week’s win at Aberdeen.
He finished the game having made 131 yards and scored two touchdowns – and still found time to help out on defence!
Clear Leaders
Newton caught two passes for 64 yards and scored a touchdown, and Jones caught three passes for 80 yards and scored a touchdown.
The defence also ended the game with some impressive statistics. Steve Patron led the way with nine unassisted tackles and three assisted.
Terry Wells made seven unassisted tackles and one interception, and new-boy Ron Schnell gave a good account of himself, making five unassisted tackles and three assisted.
Assistant coach Shay Eddy today said he was delighted with the result which puts Steelers well clear at the top of the division.
“It was not easy out there. They were a physically bigger side than us, and the heavy rain was not suited to good football – our style of play – but we came through well.”
Other results went in Steelers’ favour yesterday, with Rockingham losing at Stoke, and next week’s visitors to Quibell Park, Leicester Huntsmen, going down to Aberdeen.
Steelers are eagerly looking forward to Leicester’s visit next week. They showed their respect – or fear – of Scunthorpe when they sent someone to video yesterday’s game.

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Mumby Jumpy!

Scunthorpe 28 Cambridge 26

First Down

Saturday June 9

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Ever-ready Baz Mumby smothered a last-minute onside kick as the Steelers held off a ferocious fourth quarter fightback from the Wildcats.

Cambridge jumped ahead with a one-yard Eric Robinson run but Kenny Jones’ 11-yard keeper and 26-yard lob to Maurice Newton and Mumby’s conversion put Scunthorpe 14-6 ahead.

Von Sheppard ran three yards for a self-converted TD to make it 22-6 in the third before Robinson scored his second from the 11.

Sheppard completed his double at the start of the fourth with a 12-yard jaunt but Robinson’s six-yarder kept it close.

Inside the last minute, versatile Robbo set up the nail-biting finale with a tricky 59-yard option pass to Nick Tuttle and two-pointer but Mumby’s alertness secured the win.

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Film Show Won’t Help Huntsmen!
By Howard Foster, Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, June 9

Scunthorpe Steelers are in action at home again tomorrow for the first time in a month, when the visitors are Leicester Huntsmen.
The game is being eagerly awaited by the home contingent who aim to put on a show for local gridiron supporters.
Steelers recall Sean Richards and Mark Francis to their defence for the game at Quibell Park, 3pm.
Jim Sparling and Paul Eddy will also play for the table-topping Scunthorpe side, and there is a mood of real optimism in the camp.
“Leicester videoed our game down at Cambridge last week, but they won’t be getting any clues from it,” assistant coach Shay Eddy explained.
“We were running the ball a good deal of the time, but our strength is in the passing game.
In The Air
“That is what we have been working on in training this week, and hopefully we’ll have the ball in the air a good deal of the time,” he added.
Steelers won last week by a 28-26 scoreline, and the word in the league is that they are the team to beat.
Ron Schnell is expected to be playing in his strongest position in the offense, as tight end wide receiver, and along with star players such as Von Sheppard and Kenny Jones, will be hoping to cause some real havoc to the Leicester defence.
Ex-Walsall Titans man Sheppard will be making his home debut tomorrow after two impressive displays in his first games for the club, and is expected to bring a bigger than average attendance through the gates.
Another bonus this week is a special promotion – the first 100 fans through the gates tomorrow will receive a free copy of the UK’s leading American Football Magazine which focuses on both the British and the NFL game.

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Von’s Show

Scunthorpe 20 Leicester 0

First Down

Saturday, June 16

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Scunthorpe overcame Leicester despite the loss of 10 players suffering from flu to stake its claim on the Midlands crown.

Reliable import rusher Von Sheppard chalked up 160 yards along the ground from 15 carries, and nabbed three receptions for 66.

Nick Preece put the Steelers on the way, scorching in for a TD from 36 yards.

Sheppard thrilled the crowd on his home debut, scoring his first TD in front of the local fans from 70 yards out.

After the break Scunthorpe had two TDs called back before Sheppard bagged his second score on a pass from QB Kenny Jones.

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Defence Is The Key For Steelers
Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Monday, June 11

A superb performance from Scunthorpe Steelers’ defence was the cornerstone for their emphatic 20-0 victory over Leicester Hunstmen at Quibell Park yesterday.
All the defence merited praise for a disciplined game that frustrated the visitors who never would have guessed that a flu big had ravaged through the home camp!
Special defensive honours must go to Glenn Stowe, who chased Leicester’s quarterback for the whole match, never giving him any time, and Rick Green, who broke up three touchdown passes.
As usual Kenny Jones was in good form for the offense, making 130 yards and scoring a touchdown, and Von Sheppard capped his home debut with a touchdown, also making three receptions for 66 yards.
Phil Wright made one reception for 25 yards, Gio Viscomi made two receptions for 15 yards and Maurice Newton made two receptions for 34 yards.
Rushing, Kenny Jones made 26 yards, Von Sheppard 160 yards, Baz Mumby made 11 yards with one touchdown, and Gio Viscomi made 53 yards.
Andy Flippance had a fine game with his huge tackles contributing heavily to the one-sided scoreline.
Assistant coach Shay Eddy said today that he was well satisfied with the result.
“With the flu bug hitting us, several of the players – including me – were well below par, but we overcame this to get another good win.
“It wasn’t our best overall performance of the season, but the defence covered themselves in glory,” he stressed.
The ‘where and when’ mystery of Steelers’ next game has now been resolved.
They face Cambridge next Sunday, at Ashby Ville, at the usual time of 3pm, hoping for another win to protect their status as league leaders,
Although they were offered Hull’s impressive Costello Stadium for the game, Steelers’ officials decided that they wanted to stay in the Scunthorpe area for the game.
“After we found that Quibell Park was double booked, Glanford Park was our target for the game, but unfortunately reseeding work there makes this impossible,” Shay Eddy explained.
“But Ashby Ville will do fine for this one-off occasion, and it should be a hard fought game,” he added.

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Steelers Are Prepared For A Physical Battle
By Howard Foster, Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph
Saturday, June 16

If you want to see why American footballers wear pads and helmets, get down to Ashby Ville tomorrow afternoon.
That’s the message from Scunthorpe Steelers assistant coach Shay Eddy, as the league leaders prepare for a tough and physical game against second-placed Cambridge.
With several players missing through holiday or work commitments, the Steelers will be hoping that their injured players come through and are fit for the game.
Currently rated at 50-50 is linebacker Ron Schnell whose wrist injury is healing well after he sustained it against Leicester last week.
But fellow linebacker Julian Fox is rated as ‘very doubtful’ with a painful twisted knee restricting his training this week.
Outside linebacker Paul Lomax is also suffering from a knee injury that he picked up back in May on the rock-hard Aberdeen pitch.
Steelers have been working on some new moves and formations in training, and hope to put them into practice tomorrow.
“They look superb on the training pitch, but obviously we have to wait to see how they work in the heat of the battle,” Eddy said.
Offensive stars Kenny Jones and Von Sheppard are hoping for dry weather to make the Ashby Ville pitch firm, which will suit their skilful brand of play.
A Scunthorpe victory tomorrow would make a play-off place a relative certainty, although they will still have to keep on wining to ensure that they top the table.
As champions Scunthorpe would be assured of a home tie in the play-off quarter-final on July 15.
The Quibell Park pitch has already been provisionally booked, such is the confidence in the home camp.

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Play-off Secure As Steelers Hit Back

Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Monday, June 18

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Scunthorpe Steelers are busy celebrating today after clinching a play-off place and nearly making certain of the championship with a fine 38-20 win over Cambridge.

The Ashby Ville crowd saw the expected tough battle, with the home side recovering after a disastrous start against their nearest rivals.

Cambridge couldn’t believe their luck when from the start Steelers fumbled the ball on their own 20-yard line, and the visitors took advantage to score a touchdown.

But this wasn’t converted, and Scunthorpe soon recovered their composure – drawing level when Von Sheppard rushed 68 yards for a touchdown.

This left the score at 6-6 after the first quarter, but from then on Steelers never looked back.

Kenny Jones’ 20 yard scoring pass to Maurice Newton put them ahead, and when Jones made a fine pass to Phil Wright, the writing was on the wall for the visiting side.

They never realistically looked like recovering against Scunthorpe’s onslaught, who although fielding a side with several rookies always looked a class above, and showed why the title is almost certain to be heading to this part of the world.

Defensively the honours when to Mark Francisc, who made nine unassisted, and five assisted, and Terry Wells, who celebrated his 38th birthday with six unassisted and one assisted tackle.

Offensive stars Kenny Jones and Von Sheppard also doubled up on defence, with Jones taking five assisted, and two interceptions, and Sheppard making an interception.

A special mention should go to Ian Duff, who had a fine game at left tackle in this his first season in the game, and a good future is predicted for him.

Offensive statistics show that Kenny Jones both threw and rushed for over 100 yards again this week.

He threw exactly 100 yards and made three touchdowns, and rushed for 105 yards.

Von Sheppard three 11 yards and made one touchdown, and ran for 159 yards with two touchdowns.

Jones also took a 56 yard pass from Baz Mumby, who rushed four times for 18 yards.

As predicted, the game did produce its fair share of injuries, with Steve Stow very doubtful for next week after a badly turned ankle, and Andy Hunt similary fixed after a back injury.

Next week Steelers are aiming to clinch the championship when they visit Leicester Huntsmen on Sunday afternoon.

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Steelers Set For Big Time

By Howard Foster, Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Monday, July 9

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Scunthorpe Steelers’ highly successful championship season in the NCMMA may mean a step up into the ‘big time’ for 1991.

Unofficial talks have opened to admit Scunthorpe into the National Divisional Management Association’s top league – formerly the Budweiser League, writes Howard Foster.

Assistant coach Shay Eddy has been approached as to how Steelers would feel about an invitation in the NDMA – recognised as Britain’s top Gridiron League.

“It’s early days yet, but our facilities and organisation have been complimented and approved,” he confirmed.

The exciting factor about the NCMA, as well as the chance to play the top teams in the country, is the prize for the league champions – a chance to compete against the top European clubs.

“This is where the future lies for American football,” Eddy explained. “Satellite television will be covering these games and the whole thing is really set to take off.”

Cash to fund Steelers’ expansion may well come from a share issue, but plans are still at an embryonic stage.

“But make no mistake, we’re ambitious, and with the right backing and support we can be the NCMA champions within three years,” Eddy stressed.

Coming back down to earth, Scunthorpe’s opponents for their play-off quarter-final are either the Colchester Gladiators or the West London Aces.

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Steelers Are Raring To Go

Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Saturday, July 21

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Scunthorpe Steelers are fit and raring to go for their crucial play-off quarter-final with Crawley Raiders at West Common Lane on Sunday, 3pm.

A full training session last night saw only one player unable to train through injury, with the rest recovered after the four week break.

Glenn Stowe is rated ‘very doubtful’ for the game as his fractured ankle has still not healed properly.

But centre Paul Lomax will play, and this has boosted club morale on the eve of their most important match for several seasons.

The current sweltering conditions have been a bonus for the Steelers’ American imports, Von Sheppard and Kenny Jones, who are both revelling in the host weather.

“They say it reminds them of the States, but I’m not so sure that our English boys are so happy,” assistant coach Shay Eddy explained.

Crawley are a big team and play the ball on the ground a good deal, but Scunthorpe aim to fox them by playing a passing game – something they have been working on in recent weeks.

West Common Lane’s pitch has been marked out for the game, and a PA will broadcast commentary.

Steelers have appealed to the public to go down and cheer them on to victory.

Cold drinks will be on sale – a vital factor with temperatures predicted to be in the high 80s, and probably about 100 degrees on the pitch.

 

Sad Defeat For Steelers

Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph

Monday, July 23

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Scunthorpe Steelers were pipped 21-20 by Crawley Raiders in the end of season play-offs at West Common Lane yesterday.

It was a tough, sometimes brutal clash which resulted in Steelers’ ace Von Sheppard spending last night in the town’s general hospital suffering from concussion.

And Scunthorpe chief Shay Eddy is now planning to file an official report to the league complaining about the actions of some of the Crawley players and their supporters.

“After what went on yesterday I am seriously thinking of packing it all in after seven years in the game,” said Eddy.

“It probably sounds just like sour grapes but it is not.

“I have been hoping that the standard of officialdom and sportsmanship would improve, but I see no signs of it.”

Eddy was angry that the Steelers had two scores ruled out, denying them the chance of victory.

They led 12-0 at the start of the second quarter with touchdowns from Maurice Newton and Ron Schnell.

But they were 14-12 in arrears at half-time and trailed 21-12 until a last score two minutes from time brought them within a point of the Crawley total.

The season is now over for Scunthorpe – in disappointing fashion!