This week, the Spanish League of American Football features a Madrid derby between two undefeated squads vying for Spain’s top spot.
The Las Rozas Black Demons (2-0) and Osos Rivas (2-0) are both Madrid based teams that are 2-0 this season. The Osos Rivas will have homefield advantage in this one, look for both teams to fired up for this early regular season city championship!
Las Rozas Black Demons @Osos Rivas, Feb. 20, 16:00 CET (10:00 ET)
The Black Demons are heading into this week with a ton of swagger as they knocked off the defending champion Badalona Dracs 29-7 last week, ending the Dracs historic 44 game win streak in Spanish league play. A key to their victory was the play of their offensive line which paved the way for running backs Javier Carrasco and Marcos De La Mata to find the open field. Quarterback Chris Merchant was able to connect with his 6’5″ tight end Marvin Saunders who caught four passes in his first-ever game in Europe while also connecting with deep threat Nicolas Castagno in key moments.
Long-time Black Demon, Javier Carrasco explains the importance of this cross-city rivalry:
“You know…games between Madrid teams are always something personal, it’s about who wants it more. I love playing against Osos because it’s a very physical game”
Defensively, the Black Demons held the Dracs to multiple three and outs while defensive back Darius Robinson intercepted a deep pass. Overall, the strength and speed of the Black Demons defense smothered the Dracs offense holding them to seven points. They’ll need to step up again against an explosive Osos Rivas offense.
The home team Osos Rivas are going into this Madrid Derby after beating down the Murcia Cobras 52-33. The Osos Rivas offense was obviously explosive in this one as new quarterback Garrett Dellechiaie combined well with running backs Adrian Jimenez and Italian-American Mike Gentili. Gentili showed off his jets busting out for some long runs. Dellechiaie however, was the star of the show throwing four touchdowns in his Spanish debut. The Osos Rivas were also able to create turnovers last week including a pick six from Rodrigo Gardeta, and another inception from Andres Garcia. Look for their defensive backs to be keen to repeat this performance in this big rivalry game.
Running back Mike Gentili on the matchup:
“We will need to play our best football to win Saturday. They have a very talented group of imports who they’ve done a good job of involving as much as possible – the key for us will be slowing them down on defense and sustaining drives on offense.”
Look for both teams to be fired up in this rivalry. Players and coaches will have an extra level of emotion and physicality in this one. The Black Demons linemen played outstanding football on both sides of the ball last week so it will be important for the Osos Rivas to step up in the trenches. Look for turnovers and special teams to be vital, as two excellent quarterbacks will be facing off against talented secondaries.
Watch the game live here. Las Rozas Black Demons @Osos Rivas, Feb. 20, 16:00 CET (10:00 ET)
Osos Rivas Roster (Click to enlarge)
Las Rozas Black Demons Roster (Click to enlarge)
