It’s one week later than they would have liked, but the Dubai Stallions will finally return to the field to begin their defence of the Emirates American Football League (EAFL) crown this weekend.
– EAFL: Barracudas’ defense provides 15-0 win over Wildcats
– EAFL: Barracudas looks to take one step further
– EAFL: Robinson eager to impart his passion
The Stallions face the Al Ain Desert Foxes at The Sevens on Friday, with both teams opening their season after they delayed their start to recruit more players.
Stallions coach Anthony Daniels and his players were resigned to watching the EAFL’s opening weekend of action in the stands, itching to make their first appearance since winning last season’s coveted Desert Bowl.
“It was hard and it was disappointing that we weren’t ready to play, but I think we’ve overcome that and I think we have a good, solid foundation to start off and have a good season,” Daniels said.
One major difference from last season’s title-winning team will be a new face at quarterback. Chris Wentzel’s departure will force Daniels to appoint someone else at the helm of the offence – a decision he has yet to reveal.
Whoever lines up under centre will possess the qualities Daniels is looking for, while getting the advantage of having running back and Desert Bowl MVP Davion Miller in the backfield.
“The first thing that I look for is patience, not rush things and not try to force things that aren’t there. That is a very valuable characteristic of a quarterback, especially in the passing game,” Daniels said. “We’re going to be primarily a run-oriented team because we have good running backs.”
The Barracudas take on Abu Dhabi Wildcats for the second straight game. The league opener saw the Barracudas win 15-0, but the Wildcats didn’t have running back Vivaldi Tulysse, who returns.
Abu Dhabi coach Tony Robinson said: “We’ve done some things to make it a little easier on the offense as far as blocking assignment and things of that nature. That coupled with having Vivaldi back is going to provide a huge spark for us.”
