The Axemen travelled to Philadelphia knowing they were going to have to be at their best if they were to beat the undefeated Philadelphia Fight. With both teams on top of the competition ladder and at four wins a piece, the winner was likely to cement a home semi final.

Often players earn their reputation in big games and captain Brent Shorton certainly showed why he has been one of the best players to play the game in the USA. Shorton who comes from Australia is in his fith season with the Axemen and looking for his second championship with the club.

Shorton was a standout in the Axemens win over the fight, guiding his team around the park along with having a hand in five of the Axemens six tries. The Axemen were leading 22-12 and needed a big play to put the game beyond doubt. Shorton saw an opportunity deep on his own half, took the ball from hooker, stepped three Fight defenders before running 75 yards to score under the posts. This performance earn’t Shorton the MVP award and has all but wrapped up a home play off for the Axemen.