Rebellion brutal in opening round

DC Slayers vs Philadelphia Fight

The DC Slayers shocked a lack- luster Fight by swamping them with 22 points to 6 by the end of the first 20min quarter. Without panic the Fight finally got into top gear in the 2nd quarter & led by 2 points at the half 24 to 22.  There was only one score in the 3rd period and it went to DC who led 28 – 24.  The Fight had earned their name by the very end to ensure a final win with only a four point difference 36 to 32.  Fight half-back Joel Weeks was named Man of the Match as he excelled with a tally of 4 tries while local winger Mike Timpano kicked 6 conversions from 6 attempts. Other try scorers for the Fight were Matt Webster and Casey Clark with a try each.

Some positive takeaways for the Slayers were league debutantes Matt Kreider, Daryll White and Tom Hooley all three that had outstanding games and will soon be making a name for themselves in the USARL.
Final Score Philadelphia Fight 36 DEFEATED DC Slayers 32

Rhode Island Rebellion vs Boston 13s

Last years finalist the Boston 13s were dealt a harsh reality by a new look Rhode Island team that has been busy in the off season.  Looking impressive at the USARL 9s tournament two weeks ago, the Rebellion have benefited by a number of their players who participated in the U23s comp this past spring.

Rhode Island came out of the corner swinging and piled on 22 points unanswered points in the first quarter.  Boston missing many of their star players spent the majority of the game on defense and it wasn’t before long that fatigue set in and the points began racking up.  MVP was Brian Amaral who went coast to coast scoring 3 tries and was a brick wall on defense.
Final Score Rhode Island Rebellion 132 DEFEATED Boston 13s 0

Jacksonville Axemen vs Baltimore Blues

The Axemen started the season in typical fashion by quickly reminding the Baltimore Blues that Rugby League can be cruel game both physically and mentally.  Playing at home in a new look setting, the Axemen went about business making sure that the visitors never settled in by scoring 28 points in the first quarter.  Baltimore never recovered and by halftime were down 44-4.  The Axemen look sharp and big efforts by Kenny Britt (4 tries) and Craig Howitt (2 tries) paved the way for their first win of the season.
Final Score: Jacksonville Axemen 90 DEFEATED Baltimore Blues 4

Next Week (Round 2)

D.C. Slayers take on the Baltimore Blues in the first of their local derbies. Rhode Island Rebellion go back-to-back against a demoralized Boston 13s. Philadelphia Fight take on the Jacksonville Axemen (2012 champions) which may prove to be a preview of this year’s Championship Final.