Varsity: American football BACK ON…at Trent

The Varsity Series continues this weekend as University of Nottingham take on their Poly rivals at American Football.

Sunday’s clash has  controversially been moved from the “unsafe” Harvey Hadden Stadium to Trent’s home on Clifton Campus.

Enemy territory

Since the original fixture at Harvey Hadden was called off at late notice, various matches have been played at the ground – including the official Rugby League Varsity.

The UoN American Football Publicity Officer Tom Walshe seemed unperturbed about the change of venue, however.

“We’re not concerned about the game being moved to Clifton in Trent’s stomping ground, we’re just glad the game is on,” Walshe told The Tab.

“A pitch is a pitch: if it has lines, numbers and hashes that’s all we need, regardless as to where it is. The adrenaline on the day will nullify any effects of a partisan crowd.

“As they say: the bigger the sacrifice, the bigger the reward. And there will be no bigger reward than winning Varsity in our rival’s backyard.”

Harvey Hadden Stadium: “unsafe”

Walshe did concede that he is “not sure” if the change is “fair” on his team, stating that he was similarly “unsure why it’s not being played at Harvey Hadden anymore.”

With the Varsity Series balanced at 1-1, the contest is vital as Uni look to restore their lead, but Walshe is just as concerned with the game’s BUCS significance.

“We currently stand 3rd in the league, whilst Trent are 4th, and whoever is victorious on Sunday will secure 3rd in the Midlands Athletic Conference and progress to the playoffs.

“We have not played Trent yet this season, but I think the delay was actually a blessing in disguise. Not only have we had more time to plan and prepare for them, we’ve also had another game since which gave us the chance to get rid of any rust and cobwebs.”

With just a few days left to prepare, let’s hope that will be enough.

Get yourself behind enemy lines this Sunday at 1pm and support the team! https://www.facebook.com/events/223496901187095/?ref_dashboard_filter=upcoming

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