The Bay City Buccaneers’ offence clashes with the Berwick Miners’ defence during their Gridiron Victoria match in Geelong on Sunday.By Marc McGowan
THE Berwick Miners remain unbeaten after two rounds despite a lethargic performance against the Bay City Buccaneers in Geelong on Sunday.
The teams found themselves in a dour defensive struggle, with errors and missed opportunities ruling the day as they settled for a rare scoreless draw in their Gridiron Victoria encounter.
The result was in direct contrast to the Miners’ round one victory, when they piled on 60 points against the Southern Seahawks.
Quarterback Sam Walker struggled to match his opening display, throwing two interceptions.
Running back Shahid Malimar did not play and is expected to miss three further games with a tear in the cartilage of his right knee.
Wide receiver Martin Zika and captain Lee Lindsay were also unavailable for Berwick.
Rookie teenager Nick Vlad assumed starting tailback duties and although he performed well he was unable to make an impact on the scoreboard.
The last quarter provided the most excitement as the Miners made a late run at victory.
Franco Devivo intercepted a pass and ran the ball inside Berwick’s 30-yard line, but Walker was unable to orchestrate a score.
The Buccaneers had the final possession and attempted several long passes as time ticked away.
Fortunately, the Miners’ defence managed to stop Bay City from producing the winning points.
Berwick head coach Darren Shaw was unable to explain the scoring drought.
“It wasn’t windy and it didn’t rain – they were perfect conditions for playing,” he said.
“Our defence was extraordinary. Their offence did put together a few good series, but our defence stepped up and kept us in the game.
“Our quarterback just had an off day. He couldn’t get the ball to our receivers and felt he was rushed a lot of the time – it was a big defensive day.”
The Miners now take on the Croydon Rangers, who have recorded comfortable triumphs in both of their contests.
“I think next week against the Rangers we’ll know where we really are in regards to the league,” Shaw said.
The fixture is at Frank Street Reserve, Frankston, at 2pm on Sunday.
