2nd May 2004

BSL Division Two

Maidstone Pumas 6-46 Sussex Thunder

The Sussex Thunder moved to 2-0 with another huge offensive day and a victory over the Maidstone Pumas. Andy Smythe set a team record with his second straight 200-yard plus performance, with 260 yards rushing and 5 TDs from 26 carries.

However, it was the Pumas who started the brightest, forcing Sussex three-and-out and then marching downfield in 4 plays to open the scoring. Ally McKensie blocked the PAT to leave the score at 6-0. Maidstone continued to apply pressure and once again the Thunder were forced to punt. The fortunes of the game would hinge on the next play, when Safety Guy Everest intercepted a pass at midfield from where the Thunder took charge and never looked back. Will Graystone hit Paul Robinson with a 13-yard completion, before Smythe set off on the first of many of his trademark mazy runs. Smythe capped the drive with a 2-yard plunge and the PAT gave Sussex a 7-6 lead. The lead was extended to 21-6 by halftime with Smythe running in his 2^nd and 3^rd scores, as the Sussex defense began to clamp down. 

The Thunder literally ran away with the game in the 3^rd quarter with Smythe claiming his 4^th and 5^th scores and Graystone connecting with Mike Ashby for a 40-6 Thunder advantage. The offensive line of McLean, Ayrey, Minter, Floate, Palmer, Heminsley and Hill-Paul was now affording Smythe the freedom to get out into the open field with impressive regularity. Defensive leaders Guy Robbins and Eber Kington ensured that there would be no let-up on the other side of the ball. The scoring was completed in the 4^th quarter when Graystone found a wide-open J-P Flanagan in the endzone for another TD, leaving the final score at 46-6. 

A mention must be made to congratulate the Pumas’ organisation on the great strides their team has made since the last meeting of the two teams. The improved squad numbers and impressive play bodes well for the future. 

Next week Sussex will travel to Orpington for the rematch with the Kent Exiles, with divisional lead – to mention nothing of the intense rivalry - at stake for the Thunder. The following Sunday, Sussex will host the return feature against the Pumas before finishing a run of five straight games with a visit to the Essex Spartans.