Wildcats lose UK crown

HIGHLAND Wildcats could not repeat the feat of 12 months ago as they lost their grip on the UK title with an early exit at this year’s BritBowl tournament.

The reigning Scottish champions made the trip to Sheffield with a young squad that had its preparations hampered by injuries to several influential players.

The Wildcats, seeded second in the draw, faced the London Warriors in their first knockout match and were looked to be in a strong position to progress when building up a 15-0 lead early on.

Back came the Warriors, however, who reduced the arrears to 15-12 at the interval, before easing to a 36-15 triumph courtesy of a strong second half performance.

It was a display that set London up to go and win the title, defeating Woodham Warriors in the final to take the crown from Highland.

"I am still really proud of everything the team’s achieved this year," said Wildcats head coach Robbie Paulin.

"The squad, made up of mainly rookies, did an amazing job of defending the Scottish Championship and the fact that they went to BritBowl and dominated the London Warriors in the first half is a fantastic achievement considering the Warriors went on to become UK champions.

"We’ve had to overcome a lot of things this year, including injuries to key players, but I’m very pleased how the team adapted and thankful to those players who still stood by their team and came down to help out and support."