The Lisbon Devils and Algarve Sharks clash in the Stadium Municipal Prof. José Vieira de Carvalho in Maia, Portugal today in the 2016 Portugal Bowl.
This year will see the first new champion since the Portuguese league’s inception as the six time champion Lisbon Navigators were eliminated in the playoffs.
Both teams have traveled different roads to get to this championship game however there paths have crossed twice. And on both times the Devils have came on top.
Running backs will be a key. Malcolm Gasque (right) has been a crucial factor for the Devils this season. Photos: Alexandre de Sousa
However in a championship game we all know that anything can happen. Until now the Lisbon Devils are undefeated (9-0-0) and have compiled two wins against Navigators, Crusaders and the Sharks. They also defeated the Mutts and Warriors and eliminated the Paredes Lumberjacks from the playoffs.
On the other side, the Sharks (6-4-0) have won games against Navigators and Crusaders (also lost one to both teams), Mutts and Warriors and eliminated the Navigators for the first time in six years. In the semi finals game they have won against the Mutts in a game that was cancelled due to league issues. (Victory was awarded to the Sharks after the Mutts refused to show up at the day and hour the game was supposed to be played.)
To get a personal view on the upcoming game and the 2015/2016 season in Portugal, we spoke with Joey Bradley, quarterback for the Devils, and with Ryan De Loureiro, quarterback for the Sharks.
Joey Bradley – Ryan De Loureiro Photos: Alexandre de Sousa
Joey Bradley:
“This experience has been nothing but positive for me. I’ve enjoyed playing here as well as just living and being part of the Portuguese community and culture. Obviously the language barrier presents the biggest challenge, but through my short time hear I feel I have learned quite a bit.
The main difference from football in America to here is here is not as serious as it is when you’re in college. College football is essentially a job where you work 30-40 hours a week between practice/workouts/film study/meetings. So although it was more laid back than what I have been used to, it was nice to be able to relax and enjoy myself more than usual”.
He also looked at this moment as “An awesome moment in my career/life and a huge moment for Portuguese Football as there will be a new champion for the first time in the history of the LPFA”.
Regarding expectations he continued:
“I feel that my team can win. We have had success all season, and I believe in our guys. It should be a great game”. And he also has a message to all imports that are considering Portugal “I definitely would recommend to imports to come to Portugal, as long as they have the right mindset coming in to this experience”. And as a final note he just would like to say “GO DEVILS”.
Devils Collin Franklin is dangerous. Photo: Alexandre de Sousa
Ryan De Loureiro:
“Being of Portuguese heritage, I’ve always wanted to come to Portugal. But it wasn’t easy leaving behind my family, friends, and girlfriend for an extended period of time like I have. However, knowing I’d be coming to play football definitely lightened the load for me”.
Regarding the moment that is fast approaching:
“As cliched as it sounds, we just need to approach the championship like every other game”.
As far as what he is expecting in the championship final:
“I’ve never played in a game where I didn’t think my team had a chance of winning. I’m not saying it will be easy, but we certainly have a chance”.
And regarding playing football in Portugal:
“As a player who thought his career was over after college, I would definitely recommend any player who truly loves football and wants to play at least another season to come play in Portugal”. And the final message is something to deep recognize “I would just like to thank the Algarve Sharks organization for taking a shot at a short quarterback from Connecticut. Also, the Portuguese people in general. Their hospitality has been unbelievable. I was lucky enough to come to a team with teammates was great as mine. I’m thankful for them every day I’ve been here”.
Watch the game live. Kickoff 4 PM (10 AM EDT)
