2-1 in Battlefield District

The Blue Devils overcame the Flu, horrible field/ playing conditions, bus malfunctions, and THE WORST officiating I have ever been apart of to grab our second win in the Battlefield District.

It was roughly 42 degrees and a constant rain. "The Pit" a qualified name given to the King George football field, is not only a name but a description. The field seemed to collect water from the surrounding area. Two inch deep mud at mid-field or the sideline was not uncommon in the 2nd quarter.

The Devils' D was outstanding for the second time, in both wins, coincidence?? It became apparent early on that KG would struggle to move the ball, even without some key players out due to the Flu. The O was able to grab 2 quick TD's which was enough for a win. All week we struggled in practice with even having enough players to practice 11 on 11, because of the Flu. There were several Devil's that could not even make the trip to KG and several others that did make the trip but did not dress.

Well before half-time it became clear that we would not be allowed to score anymore, not because of KG's defense, because of the officials. I am not one to complain about officiating, usually. I feel that getting the win allows us to point out that the officiating was atrocious. To be clear, I understand that there are going to be missed calls and blown calls in any given game that does not employ instant replay. What the Devils were a party to on Friday even goes beyond home officiating. I seemed as though every time we gained a 1st down there was a mysterious penalty. In fact while watching film with the team on Saturday AM, I criticized an O-lineman for virtually doing nothing and THAT was the play he was flagged for a hold. OK. I looked at the film for another played that held...NOTHING not even close. This was just one example. I was so angry during the game and it was so obvious, I began to dismiss it and focused on making sure the players kept calm and didn't get frustrated to the point of ACTUALLY committing a rule infraction. At least now it's over, Devils win, all is good.

This week's focus is Spotsy. Homecoming. There is work to do.

Coach ULRICH

BDP