Week 2 Preview: NWFL National League Promises Excitement and Intensity

Photo: Jason Brown Photography

As Week 2 of the NWFL National League approaches, anticipation builds for a series of electrifying matchups. The league's second week features intriguing battles, with teams looking to establish their dominance early in the season. From reigning champions to ambitious newcomers, the stakes are high as teams clash in the quest for supremacy. Let’s dive into our preview of Wee 2 of the NWFL.

All games kick off at 12 pm.

NWFL National League

London Warriors (1-0) vs Peterborough Royals (0-0)

The London Warriors are set to face the Peterborough Royals in what promises to be a challenging encounter for the Royals. The Warriors come into this game riding high after a commanding 50-20 victory over the Solent Thrashers in week one, showcasing a devastating run game that amassed an impressive 407 yards at an average of 16 yards per rush. With six touchdowns scored on the ground and a threatening return game averaging 40 yards per return, the Warriors have already established themselves as a formidable force this season.

The history between these two teams does not bode well for Peterborough, as their last meeting ended in a lopsided 63-0 victory for the Warriors. The Royals, who struggled to a winless 0-4 record last season, will need to find answers quickly to avoid a similar fate. As they step onto the field for their season opener, the Royals will be eager to demonstrate improvement and resilience against one of the league's toughest opponents.

Manchester Titans (0-0) vs Leeds Chargers (0-0)

The Manchester Titans are set to make their highly anticipated debut against the Leeds Chargers in what promises to be a captivating matchup. The Titans, who dominated the Regional North division last season with a 7-1 record, are stepping up to the National League and transitioning from 7v7 to the more demanding 9v9 format. Their impressive performance last season has set high expectations as they face a significant challenge in their opener.

Leeds Chargers, entering their second season in the National League, bring a wealth of experience and talent to the field. With several Great Britain players on their roster, Leeds could be considered the favourite in this clash. They finished last season with a balanced 2-2 record, demonstrating their ability to compete at a high level. The Chargers also hold a psychological edge, having defeated the Titans 30-6 in their last encounter in the Premiership North in 2022. This history adds an intriguing layer to the matchup, making it a must-watch as both teams vie for early-season supremacy.

Teesside Steelers (0-0) vs Birmingham Lions (0-0)

The Teesside Steelers face a formidable challenge as they debut against the Birmingham Lions. The Steelers, making their transition to the 9v9 format, come off a stellar 7-1 season where they topped the Regional North division and won the NWFL Regional Playoffs. Their off-season recruitment will be put to the test as they step into the highly competitive National League, aiming to adapt quickly and make their mark.

The Birmingham Lions, entering their second season in the National League, are known for their dominance and a strong roster featuring numerous Great Britain players. Last season, they finished with an impressive 3-1 record, with their only defeat coming against the eventual champions, the London Warriors. Averaging 55 points per game, the Lions' high-powered offence will be a significant test for the newly promoted Steelers. As Teesside looks to prove themselves against one of the league's most established teams, this matchup promises to be a thrilling start to their National League campaign.