The Warriors were bound to lose one day, even if that day was twenty-seven months and seventeen or so games in the making. This was supposed to be the game where the upstart Devils with their much vaunted defense were put in their place; where their 3 – 0 start was put down more to the lack of opposition than to their own abilities. Somewhere along the way someone forgot to show the Devils the script, and they did what they have been doing all season long, namely not conceding points.

A one-yard run by Norwich’s Wes Kleniec in the first quarter was good enough to send the two time National Champions packing and send a shock wave through youth football. It turned out to be the most significant yard the Warriors have conceded in their history.

The weather may well have been miserable with incessant rain from hours before to hours after the proceedings. The Devils may have been lucky with their far more illustrious opponents having three scores called back for infringements. The Warriors may well have been complacent after notching up 120 points in t heir opening two games and not conceding any. But then again the Devils defense can still boast that they have are the meanest in youth football at the moment and at 4 – 0 are now play off bound and with a realistic chance of being Conference Champions into the bargain.

The defeat may prove the making of the Warriors and will no doubt make many sides suffer for this cold wet and windy day in Norfolk. The Devils need above all to keep their feet firmly planted on the ground, continue to execute and do what they do so well and the rest of their season could prove to be outstanding. The re-match of these two sides is awaited with excitement.