A wayward OC Bombers overcame a deadly accurate San Diego Lions to eventually win the first of two SoCal Derby’s for 2009 by 50 points in Riverside, CA, on Saturday July 25.

The long time rivals lined up in the inland heat after the original field, which was close to the coast, fell through at the last moment. The field at Central Middle School in Riverside offered plenty of space, and the size of the ground saw some good open play from both sides. But with temperatures in the upper 90’s and a surprisingly heavy surface, conditions were less than ideal for a good game of footy. 

The Bombers game was error riddled at times, while the Lions seemed to adjust to the conditions better and made the most of their opportunities, largely thanks to the dominance of Lions CHF and former Revolution player Donavan Trost. The Lions showed impressive accuracy to post nothing but goals until late in the third quarter, while the Bombers were winning plenty of the ball but not always using it effectively. 

Although ruckmen Andy Treanor and Tyler Mounce were winning most of the hitouts in the middle, the Lions midfielders were winning the clearances and testing the Bombers in the absence of two of their regular on-ballers through injury. But eventually the makeshift midfield combination found their rhythm, with new recruit Rob Luto starring in a best on ground performance for his new club. He was well supported by Brad Weatheral and Leigh Bridges who both earned votes, while skipper Qemal Shaholli turned in another workmanlike performance and led from the front. 

The Bombers defensive line was solid once again, and managed to keep the Lions to only 10 scoring shots for the game. Unfortunately for the Bombers Backs, 9 of those scoring shots were goals, but still the mostly American defense showed once again how much they hate giving up a score. Led by veteran full back KB Nelson, the Bombers defensive unit went to work and put the pressure on the Lions forwards with good rebound out of the backline and delivery up the field. Mike Hertstein, Kareem Lorseyedi and Seb Aguiari stood out in what was a very good performance all round from the defenders. 

The  Bombers forwards and midfielders shared the load, and the list of scorers was long, but the 50% conversion rate let them down in the end and it’s a part of the team plan that needs improvement. However a lot of players presented well and caused headaches for the Lions defenders, and with a bit of polish they threaten to post a big score when it all comes together. Chris Stewart continued his good form, while utility player RJ Meza shone across half forward, setting up many scoring opportunities. RJ again showed his versatility, backing up his great game against GG where he was used as a spare man in defense, with a match winning performance as a small forward/midfielder.

The Bombers next face USAFL powerhouse the Denver Bulldogs on August 8 in Orange County, in what should be a great match as the Bombers try to get a win over the Dogs for the first time in club history.

Bombers -  Q1: 3.4 Q2: 5.5 Q3: 3.3 Q4: 4.3      Total - 15.15.105



Lions - Q1: 2.0 Q2: 3.0 Q3: 2.1 Q4: 2.0      Total - 9.1.55



Goals: McNeil (4), Weatherall (3), Bridges, Stewart (2), Allison, Treanor, Marks, DeBlank.

Best – Luto, Bridges, Weatherall, Irwin, Aguiari, Lorseyedi.

Photos from the game can be viewed at http://scafl.shutterfly.com/