The Southern Kings take on Team Midlands in their second and final game of the 2024 campaign at Nottingham University this weekend. The Kings will look to end their inaugural campaign with a 1 - 1 record after a hard-fought loss a fortnight ago against the well-established SGS Filton Pride.
Reflecting on the strength of the program, Southern Kings Head Coach Aaron Alexis noted “Four months of hard work brings me a lot of pride in building this squad,” and that “I’m excited to see what we can do and hope we can come out with the victory.” Reflecting on the Kings players' journey, Alexis said “I’ve seen development in every player that’s been selected.”
Imposing running back Ayo Olushoga is set to lead the charge against Team Midlands. Olushoga, who captained the side against the Pride, has settled in well with the Kings and stated, “It’s a really good experience. This is my first time playing 11-a-side. It’s more exposure and I’m learning lots of things that are new to me.” Olushoga, who usually suits up for the London Warriors, also added “My favourite part of the camps is scrimmaging,” and that he’s looking forward to applying what he returns to play for the Warriors’ adult side next summer.
Joining Olushoga in the backfield is quarterback Miles Thursfield. Thursfield, who also plays for the Hertfordshire Cheetahs and the Bournemouth Bobcats, co-captained the South Kings a fortnight ago and threw for a touchdown against the Pride. Thusfield will look to strengthen his connection with Daniel Obi when facing the Might Oaks in Nottingham. Obi, who won offensive MVP in the side’s first fixture, ran in a 50-yard screen against SGS and will aim to showcase his speed and elusiveness again when facing Team Midlands this weekend.
On defense, Bolutife Arogundade leads an all-star lineup of defensive backs aiming to lock down the Mighty Oaks' receiving corps. Reflecting on the Kings experience, Arogundade noted “Playing 11-a-side is hectic on the defensive side,” and that “there’s way more on special teams [in the 11-a-side game].” Arogundade, also noted “Coach Jordan [Metcalf] is a really good coach,” and that “he’s taught me the more in-depth side of reading plays and understanding playbooks.”
Arogundade’s efforts will be reinforced up front by a stout defensive line featuring standout defensive ends Will Adams and Dior Ikbar. Ikbar, who plays for UWE, totalled 10 tackles against SGS (including 5 for a loss), 3 sacks and forced a fumble. On the other side of the line Adams - who also suits up for the Berkshire Renegades - recorded nine tackles and a sack.
Spectators can watch the Kings take on the Might Oaks at the University of Nottingham on Saturday, the 9th of November at 3 pm. If you can’t make it over to Nottingham, the game will be live-streamed with Inside Britball’s very own Andy Taylor on co-comms. You can also follow the South Kings’ journey via Instagram, @SouthKingsU19.
Author Bio: George is a sports journalist and content writer based in Hampshire. When he’s not writing, he’s coaching quarterbacks for the University of Portsmouth and the Solent Thrashers. You can find more of his work at georgeevanswriter.co.uk or get in touch via email (georgealexevans@gmail.com)