East Kilbride Pirates make promising start under new coach with win at Merseyside Nighthawks

dailyrecord.co.uk:

By Bill Campbell East Kilbride Pirates made a promising start under new head coach Matthew Davies as they kicked-off the 2024 campaign with a victory over Merseyside Nighthawks in Liverpool.Matthew “Spoonie” Davies has recruited well, with a large playing squad and a plethora of coaches on the sidelines, and there is optimism in the air after this convincing 43-7 win on the road in the National League Premiership opener.The home side kicked off and EK immediately got onto the front foot, moving the ball all the way to the Nighthawks’ 6 yard line before an unforeseen fumble gave away possession.

Their second drive also came to a premature end when a Neil Baptie pass hung in the strong breeze and was picked off.The defence were standing strong however and quickly forced a second punt.It was third time lucky for the Pirates and they concluded this drive with a 7-yard pass by Baptie to Martin Gallagher, and while the 2PAT attempt came up short, it was an early lead for the visitors.That lead didn’t last long though, as on the first play after the kick off, Merseyside launched a long, wind-assisted pass over the top of the coverage which was hauled in for a 66 yard TD.

The point after was good, making the score 7-6 to the hosts.Undaunted, EK bounced straight back, and a seven play drive ended with Baptie carrying home from 4 yards.

A low snap on the PAT saw it turn into an unsuccessful pass attempt, but the Pirates took a 12-7 lead into the second quarter.With Merseyside having punted to end the first period, it was EK who again took control.