HEREFORD Stampede rained on Swindon Storm's parade in a 35-6 thrashing for their first home game of the season.
They met at Ledbury Rugby Club on Bank Holiday Monday (May 5) in the UK American Football league, with a sizeable crowd in attendance.
The Stampede entered the game with momentum after their season-opening 14-7 win, also over the Storm, and were eager to continue their success on home turf.
After winning the toss, the home side opted to receive the ball.
A series of effective plays allowed Hereford to march down the field, culminating in a short touchdown run.
However, the extra point attempt was unsuccessful, leaving the score at 6-0.
Storm struggled to gain momentum against a resilient Stampede defence, which held them to minimal yardage.
A penalty allowed the away side to advance, but their field goal attempt failed to convert.
At the end of the first quarter, Stampede still held their six-point lead.
As the second quarter commenced, Storm attempted to establish a running game, but faced penalties that hindered their progress.
Just as they seemed poised to score, Hereford intercepted a pass on the two-yard line.
Shortly after, the Stampede quarterback connected on a deep pass for another touchdown, successfully converting the extra point to extend the lead to 13-0.
Storm’s next possession resulted in a three-and-out, effectively ending their chances of scoring before halftime.
After the break, Storm received the ball but again, found themselves stifled by the Hereford defence.
The home side capitalised on their next possession, scoring again to make it 19-0.
A two-point conversion attempt was flagged, forcing Stampede to settle for one point, bringing the score to 20-0.
Storm continued to struggle offensively, leading to another punt.
Stampede’s JJ Spencer fielded the kick at the 20-yard line and showcased impressive agility to evade tackles, ultimately scoring another touchdown.
This time, the two-point conversion was successful, extending the lead to 28-0 by the end of the third quarter.
The final quarter mirrored the previous ones, with Storm unable to penetrate the Stampede defence.
A blocked punt led to another touchdown for the home side, increasing the score to 35-0.
With under two minutes remaining, Swindon managed to score a consolation touchdown, but the extra point attempt was unsuccessful, leaving the final score 35-6.
With this victory, Stampede stands at two wins and no losses, sitting atop the division.
The team will now embark on a series of away games, with their next home match scheduled for June fifteenth against Plymouth Vanguard, kicking off at 2 PM.
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