The Coventry Jets reached the halfway point of their domestic season with a 40-6 defeat away to the Tamworth Phoenix. The competition was over before half time as the Jets buried themselves once again with a series of fumbles. Former Jet Stuart Ennis was again a massive thorn in Coventry’s side as he threw three early touchdown passes before having the rest of the afternoon off.
Coventry travelled with a very small squad, just 20 players, as half of their playing squad was unavailable. It didn’t take long for the Phoenix to take advantage of the lack of numbers. Ben Brown was on the receiving end of Ennis’ first touchdown, a 20 yard strike. The Jets handed Tamworth another opportunity almost immediately, fumbling the ensuing kickoff.
Pete Kaminski punished the error with a 13 yard touchdown run for an early 14-0 lead. Coventry couldn’t move the ball with their next possession and Ennis quickly stuck the knife in, his 45 yard pass was good for a touchdown to Ricky Livingstone.
Coventry’s next possession was short-lived, a fumble on an option play saw Chris Peel recover and Livingstone capitalised with a 4 yard reception.
A good defensive series led to a Tamworth punt and a high snap offered the Jets an opportunity to get on the board before the half. Predictably though, Coventry coughed the ball up once more and the chance was lost. A tired Jets defence had offered an admirable first half performance as the small band of players had to endure being on the field the whole day on a scorching hot afternoon.
The hosts began the second half with the ball but an early interception by Martin Ringeisen gave the Jets hope of a quick score. The American quarterback turned the ball back over though with an interception throw of his own. Adam Biggs was next to get a pick, this time Coventry were able to make it count. Josh Hughes scored on a short pass from Ringeisen, a first Jets touchdown for the young receiver. As always though, Coventry didn’t make things easy for themselves as Tom Tandurella picked off the two point pass and returned it all the way for two points to the Phoenix.
Matt Hollis kicked a field goal for Tamworth as the hosts moved into a 33-6 lead. The former Loughborough Aces wide receiver was perfect kicking on the day, converting 5 point after trys as well. Livingstone completed a hat trick of scores as he returned a punt to round out the scoring. Tamworth were able to cycle plenty of reserves in as they improved to 4-2, remaining in third place. Coventry occupy bottom spot at 0-5.
For more details on the Coventry Jets and to find out how you can be part of their 2011 campaign, please visit their website www.covjets.com or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.