NWFL Week 9 Preview: Development South Division Showdown

The final week of the NWFL regular season is here, with the Development South Division rounding off their 7v7 format campaign. Hosted by the Hertfordshire Cheetahs in Watford, this last gameday tournament promises thrilling matchups and high stakes as teams vie for their final positions. The British American Football Association (BAFA) has confirmed an NWFL 7s Finals for the postseason, with Caledonia Chaos and Cheshire Bears from the North, and Hertfordshire Cheetahs and Kent Exiles from the South already set to participate. Here's a look at the crucial fixtures that will determine who wins the Development South Division.

Cardiff Valkyries (1-5) vs Norwich Devils (2-4) – 12 pm

The Cardiff Valkyries and Norwich Devils face off in what has been a low-scoring rivalry this season. Norwich has come out on top in their two previous encounters, winning 7-6 and 14-0. Both teams are looking to improve their offensive output, currently averaging less than 10 points per game. Cardiff needs to win both of their games and hope for a Norwich double loss to avoid finishing last in the division, while a victory for Norwich in this game will secure their third-place finish.

Hertfordshire Cheetahs (5-1) vs Kent Exiles (4-2) – 12 pm

This matchup could very well decide the division title. The Hertfordshire Cheetahs need a win to confirm their top spot, while the Kent Exiles must win both of their games and hope the Cheetahs lose both to clinch the title. The Cheetahs have dominated the Exiles in their two previous meetings, with scores of 27-6 and 33-13. Playing at home, the Cheetahs will look to leverage their home-field advantage to secure the division title decisively.

Cardiff Valkyries (1-5) vs Kent Exiles (4-2) – 2 pm

In their past two encounters, the Kent Exiles have proven too strong for the Cardiff Valkyries, winning 21-8 and 48-6. The Exiles need this win to stay in the hunt for the division title, provided they have also beaten the Cheetahs earlier in the day. Half of the Exiles' season points have come against the Valkyries, showcasing their dominance in this matchup. However, Cardiff has shown they can pull off an upset, having defeated the Cheetahs earlier in the season. Can they do it again and shake up the standings?

Hertfordshire Cheetahs (5-1) vs Norwich Devils (2-4) – 2 pm

The Hertfordshire Cheetahs have bested the Norwich Devils in their two previous matchups this season, winning 27-10 and 14-0. Depending on the earlier results, the Cheetahs may need to secure a win here to clinch the division title. If they have already beaten the Exiles, this game could allow them to rotate their squad and give reps to different players. For Norwich, this game is about ending the season on a high note and potentially causing an upset.