The Barbera Rookies take on fellow newcomers the Reus Imperials in Spain’s first league action Sunday. Both teams dominated the second division in Spain in 2015 with the Imperials coming out on top in the Series B championship final 24-20.
Barbera Rookies (0-1) – Reus Imperials (0-1)
The Rookies enter this game after an impressive showing against the Valencia Firebats two weeks ago, losing 32-26 to the defending Spanish champions on the last play of the game. Barbera had looked like upset winners until that point.
New head coach Teo Polanco has his charges playing at a high level right out of the gate. But then again, he has a history of bringing a winning attitude to the teams he coaches.
Quarterback Michael Van Deripe and his favorite target Tim Pape were deadly against Valencia combining for three touchdowns. Van Deripe accounted for the fourth touchdown on his own. The Imperials will have to find a way to neutralize that threat.
Reus did not have as auspicious an opening game falling badly to the Badalona Dracs 62-18. Nevertheless, quarterback Allan Bridgford was still impressive in his first game in Spain. He threw three touchdown passes, two to receiver Vailele Peko. They will be a challenge for the Barbera defense.
This is an early game in Spain.
Kickoff: 10:30 AM CET (4:30 AM EST)
