Axemen Fall to Warriors in Round 1
The Jacksonville Axemen had an uncharacteristic start to their 2015 USARL National Championship campaign yesterday against the Central Florida Warriors, going down 34-6. The defeat has come as a real eye opener for a team that has become accustomed to being on the favorable side of such a score line. Head Coach Wayne Forbes was disappointed with the result, however is determined to ensure the outcome fuels the commitment needed to raise the bar for the remainder of the season. “No excuses, no ifs, buts or maybe. There will be no finger pointing or passing the blame,” says Forbes. “The boys are committed and accountable for their performances, as am I as the coach. I guarantee we will bounce back from the setback fitter, faster, focused, and fired up!”
Several factors contributed to the loss and the Axemen are dedicated to fixing these issues. “At times we were our own worst nightmare. Errors, penalties and failing to complete on the 1 and 2 percenters were ultimately our downfall,” Forbes continues. “However, this is a huge positive as they are all things we have control of. A result such as this is a massive reality check for the boys. We will find the positives and build on those, and the true Axemen spirit will shine through.”
The Axemen will continue their regular season schedule in two weeks when they are on the road to take on the Atlanta Rhinos on June 13, but will have an opportunity to sharpen their skills next weekend at the Jacksonville Axemen 10th Anniverary Hall of Fame game. The current Axemen team will take on former players from the past 10 seasons on the Hall of Fame team. Come out and join the team in celebrating 10 years of Rugby League in Jacksonville as 5 players will be inducted into the Jacksonville Axemen Hall of Fame. The event will take place at 5:30pm Saturday June 6th at UNF.
