Express & Star

Sandwell Steelers flying high after clipping Jets’ wings

Sandwell Steelers maintained their challenge at the top of NFC One South Division with a thumping 50-6 win at Coventry Jets.

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The victory, the Steelers third on the spin, left them sitting second in the standings behind leaders behind Leicester Falcons as the regular season approaches the midway point.

Sandwell, who were beaten by the Falcons in their campaign curtain-raiser back in April, now face back-to-back road trips on the next two Sundays at Nottingham Caesars and Shropshire Revolution respectively.

Chairman Rob Amor said: “This is not where we wanted to be but it was where we expected to be, after losing the first game to Leicester.

“We’ve responded well, winning three games on the bounce. We play Leicester again on the final day of the regular season.

“At the moment we are trying to get ourselves in a position where that game is a title-decider.”

The comfortable nature of Sunday’s win allowed the Steelers to give every member of their squad valuable playing time.

After the Jets had opened the scoring on the game’s first drive, Sandwell grabbed control.

Back-up quarterback Kit Varney, the younger brother of starter Tristan Varney, caught the eye with two lengthy touchdown passes, while Ste Yates also spent time under center.

Amor added: “It was good to see so many players get time out on the field and we got a good look at the whole squad.

“It was a bit of a scrappy games in many respects. There were plenty of turnovers, interceptions and fumbles.

“Aside from the mistakes, it was an opportunity for players to show what they can do.

“Our offense was able to open up the game and take control.

“This is now a key part of the season. After these next two games, we have three straight at home.

“We have to make sure we stay in a good position.”