Photo: WAPhotography
This Saturday, 7th September 2024, the NWFL National Championship Final will take place at Butts Park Arena in Coventry, with kick-off at approximately 5 pm. The Birmingham Lions and London Warriors—two dominant forces in British women’s American football—will meet in a showdown that promises high-octane action. This game will be contested in the 9v9 format, which offers more space on the field but still includes the intricacies of special teams play.
Both teams enter the final undefeated with identical 4-0 records, separated by just one point conceded across their regular seasons. This will be the second consecutive year they face off in the 9v9 final, with the Warriors winning a thrilling 43-38 encounter last year. But the history between these teams goes deeper, having previously clashed in 7v7 finals as well.
To provide unique insights into this heavyweight battle, I’ve interviewed senior NWFL coaches and promised them anonymity for their candour.
The Contenders: A Closer Look
Both the Birmingham Lions and London Warriors have been practically untouchable this season. Their records speak for themselves—Lions scoring 58.5 points per game while conceding just 9.8, and the Warriors scoring 48 points per game while conceding 10. But how do they stack up against each other?
Respect for Both Sides:
“Both are excellent teams and have been the two premier teams the last two years,” said one coach. “Other teams need to look at them to see how it’s done.” Another source added, “Dee Williams [Warriors' Head Coach] and Wayne Hill [Lions' Head Coach] are creating football players. It’s clear that their teams are well-coached, with every player—veteran or rookie—being taught sound fundamentals.”
The rivalry has fostered respect between the two organisations, with many calling this matchup a true test of British women’s football at its highest level. “A GB offensive line from the Warriors vs a GB defensive line from the Lions—it’s a very fair match-up.”
London Warriors: Speed, Versatility, and Athleticism
The Warriors bring a well-rounded and versatile team to the final. Their ability to deploy athletes all over the field makes them a difficult puzzle to solve. At the heart of their attack—and defence—is star player Siobhan Walker, whose name came up in nearly every conversation I had with coaches.
Walker’s Impact:
“It’s always daunting going up against an athlete like Siobhan Walker,” one coach admitted. “You’ll see her as a cornerback, defensive end, linebacker, returner, wide receiver—she’s everywhere.”
Another notable Warrior to watch is their lightning-fast number 88, I’ve assumed they’re referring to Jochebed Frimpong. “She’s so fast!” exclaimed one scout. “They’ve got GB players all over the field,” a rival coach added, underscoring the team’s depth and talent, “and let’s not forget Sam Read to add to the receiver core”.
In the secondary, Candice Simon has stood out as a game-changing defender. “Candice Simon at DB is an amazing athlete who’s hard to get past,” said one opponent, “and Sophie George who’s really experienced and can be a difference maker”. The Warriors' ability to blend speed, athleticism, and positional versatility makes them a fearsome adversary on both sides of the ball.
Birmingham Lions: Power and Precision
The Lions are built around a dominant offensive line and a stout defensive front. Their strength in the trenches has been a key factor in their undefeated season, and the addition of standout defensive lineman Zoe John has only bolstered their ranks.
Power in the Trenches:
“Their offensive line is huge with at least 3 GB players,” said one coach. “Their defensive line is a nightmare, and then they’ve added Zoe John this season.”
The Lions’ offence is rooted in a tight, methodical ground game, which they execute with surgical precision. “You’ll see mixed formations—single wing, double wing—and they run a version of the triple option very well,” one source noted. This ground-and-pound approach has allowed them to wear down opponents while sprinkling in explosive plays.
“I expect the Lions to stick to their tight/wing formation and run the ball with their motions,” said another coach. And while their offence is punishing, they also have speed to burn. Emily Irvine, in particular, was singled out for her elite quickness. “Emily Irvine is rapid,” one coach commented.
On defence, their front line sets the tone by maintaining rush discipline, which allows their linebackers and secondary to make plays. “Their D-line fits well and is strict in their rush lanes, allowing their LBs and DBs to work well over the top.”
Their special teams also present a threat: “Their returners for kick return and punt return are no joke. They’ll likely break a few tackles for big yard gains.”
Keys to Victory: A Battle of Defences
As explosive as both offences are, many believe this game will be won by the team that can make key defensive stops and force turnovers. “Which defence can create the most stops and turnovers will win this game,” said one coach.
The battle in the trenches will likely define the game. With both teams boasting GB-caliber players on their offensive and defensive lines, it will come down to which unit can impose its will. “It’s a GB offensive line from the Warriors versus a GB defensive line from the Lions—it’s a very fair matchup.”
One coach emphasised the importance of efficiency: “Both teams don’t miss any opportunities. This game could come down to just a handful of plays.”
The Stage Is Set
With both the NWFL National Championship and BritBowl XXXVI being held on the same weekend at the same venue, British American football is in for a spectacular showcase. “It’s great to see that it’s on the same weekend as BritBowl, and the stage is the same,” one interviewee commented.
As the Lions and Warriors prepare to lock horns, it’s anyone’s game. Will Birmingham’s power and precision be enough to overcome London’s speed and versatility? Or will the Warriors once again prove too much for their rivals to handle?
Kick-off is at approximately 5 pm on Saturday. Get ready for a hard-fought battle.
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