OVFL GAME Preview: JV Ironmen trying to secure first victory of the season

The junior varsity Hamilton Ironmen will try to get on the right track after getting throttled 41-0 by the London Mustangs last week. This week, they will suit up against the Niagara Spears, who have a record of 2-1 so far this campaign.

The Ironmen are hoping that their strengths will give them an advantage and help them secure their first victory of the season.

“Our biggest strength as a team so far this year is our resiliency and passion,” said Ironmen Head Coach Michael Cornell. “We have a small squad but our players will never give up in a game, they will play hard to the end no matter what the score is.”

One aspect of their squad that they will have to compensate for is overall team depth, as they are lacking in that department.

However, the Ironmen’s receivers have performed well so far this season.

“Our wide receiving group has been stellar the last few weeks,” said Cornell. “I would look for all of them to have a great game this week.”

They will have their guards up and keep a watchful eye for the Spears’ balanced offence.

“We will be looking to shut down their QB and running game,” said Cornell. “If we limit their options of what they can do on offence, we will have a chance.”

The Ironmen’s game plan is to stifle their opponent and push them out of their comfort zone.

“We will be looking to shut down all three phases of their team,” said Cornell. “Our defence needs to stop them from putting up points if we want to win this one.”

They are well aware of what will be major factors in determining the outcome against the Spears.

“The play of our defensive backs and QB will determine our success,” said Cornell. “If we limit the big plays on defence, have sound tackling and create some turnovers, we will be successful.”

The battle between the Hamilton Ironmen and the Niagara Spears will take place on Friday, June 17 at 7:30pm on the Spears’ home turf at Kiwanis Field.