Brazil’s CBFA Superliga Week 3 Features Down to the Wire Finishes
Goiania Rednecks 32 , Campo Grande Predadores 6
Estadio Jacques da Luz – Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul
The Campo Grande Predadores take the field before their Superliga opened against the Goiânia Rednecks. Photo credit: André Fotografia
In the eviscerating heat of the Pantal during the dry season, the Predadores hosted the Candango cup runners-up in the first Superliga game of the season for both squads. The win was a historic one for the Rednecks, marking their first every Superliga victory.
The Rednecks front 4 proved to be tough for the Predadores to handle. Led by DT Diogo Santos, the down lineman swarmed all day, highlighted by Guilherme Marra forcing a fumble that Tommy Jones recovered in the end zone for the teams second touchdown of the squelching afternoon.
‘’Our front 7, led by the d-line, made it really hard for them (Predadores) to run,’’ said Goiania defensive coordinator, Igor Oliveira. ‘’It (defensive line) used to be a weak point for our group and they have turned it into a strength,’’ he added.
Goiania RB Conan Afonso ran for one TD, and nearly another. Fortunately, his fumble was recovered by teammate, WR Semer Bahmad, to add to the scoreboard for the Rednecks. A late 60 yard bomb from Paulo Paiva to Ewander Nunes rounded out the scoring for the Goiania club. The points didn’t come easily, though.
“They (Predadores) are really solid tacklers and very physical on defense,’’ said Oliveira.
“The Rednecks came in prepared,’’ said Campo Grande Offensive Coordinator, Edson Albuquerque. That preparation came in contrast to the Predadores, who are in the midst of absorbing another team, the Camp Grande Grave Diggers. ‘’We haven’t jelled yet, so there were many errors and a lack of organization. We believe that we will evolve throughout the season.’’ said Albuquerque.
AFI’s take: The Rednecks didn’t even have helmets and pads three years ago, so a win in Superliga shows some lightning-fast growth. They may not be ready to run with the big dogs of Superliga just yet, but this is a team to watch in years to come. While combining two teams presents many difficulties, especially in the initial stages, it is often beneficial in the long term. Look for the Predadroes to adjust and improve as the season continues.
