By Sam Young, Environmental Geoscience Third Year
The University of Bristol American football team, the Bristol Barracuda (Cuda), are close to wrapping up one of their most successful seasons in recent years, securing a place in the national playoffs after a gruelling stretch of fixtures following the Christmas break.
Entering the new year with confidence after a commanding offensive display against the Swansea Titans and a satisfying revenge victory over the Southampton Stags, Cuda found themselves in a strong position with a 3-2 record. However, to solidify their playoff position, they needed to win their rematches against both the Swansea Titans and the Bath Killer Bees.
Originally scheduled for the 26th of January, Cuda’s rematch against Bath was cancelled at the last minute due to adverse weather conditions and a waterlogged pitch. The postponement placed Bristol in a challenging position, as the game was rescheduled for the 5th of February, sandwiched between two tough fixtures: an away game against Swansea on the 2nd and a clash with league leaders, the Bournemouth Bobcats, on the 9th. With three games in just one week, Bristol’s resilience was set to be tested.
The week began with a trip to Swansea, where both teams showcased impressive defensive performances. With offenses struggling to move the ball, Bristol took a narrow 2-0 lead into halftime after a crucial defensive play resulted in a safety. Despite intense pressure from Swansea in the second half, Cuda’s defence held firm, securing a hard-fought 2-0 victory.
With just two days to recover, Bristol next faced Bath in the highly anticipated rescheduled fixture. A determined Cuda squad made the journey to Bath for a midweek 1pm kick-off on a mud-bowl pitch. The match began in controversy, as Bath took an early 6-0 lead with a disputed touchdown. However, Bristol’s offence quickly responded, driving through the muddy conditions to secure a touchdown and a successful conversion, taking an 8-6 lead into halftime.
Cuda wasted no time in the second half, returning the opening kick-off for a touchdown to extend their lead to 14-6. With momentum firmly in their favour, Bristol executed a clinical offensive drive, adding another touchdown to stretch the advantage to 20-6. Though Bath attempted a late comeback with a trick-play touchdown in the final quarter, the Barracuda held strong to claim a decisive 20-12 victory.
With that win, Bristol Barracuda officially sealed their place in the national playoffs, capping off the week’s halfway point with a well-earned win. As they now turn their focus to Sunday’s game against the Bournemouth Bobcats, the team will be eager to carry this momentum forward and make their mark against Division 1 South West’s leading team. Though the result of the final game of the season will have no effect on Bristol’s playoff chances, it provides an opportunity for the team to refine their skills before the playoff begins in late February.
As the Bristol Barracuda close out their regular season, the team is set to host their much-anticipated, annual Superbowl Party at The White Harte pub, bringing together students and local fans for the biggest night in the American Football calendar. With the entire venue booked out for the occasion, attendees can expect a lively atmosphere, multiple big screens showcasing the game, and a mix of both die-hard supporters and newcomers. The event is among many hosted around the UK, highlighting the growing popularity of American Football in the UK, particularly among university teams and student communities.
'This event isn’t just about watching the game, it’s about bringing people together to celebrate a sport that’s rapidly growing in the UK. The event itself is a great way to celebrate the end of our season, but also hugely supports the team. Last year we had a fantastic turn out of 180; this year we’re hoping to push the 200 mark.' Tom Gross, president of the Bristol Barracuda.
The watch party will take place on February 9th from 11:30 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. at The White Harte, 54-58 Park Row BS1 5LH.
With the playoffs now on the near horizon, the Bristol Barracuda have little time to rest as they prepare for their biggest challenge of the year so far. Their resilience throughout the season have earned them a shot at national success, and as they face off in the first round of the playoffs in late February, they’ll be looking to make Cuda history. Whether at The White Harte for the Superbowl Party or on the sidelines supporting their playoff push, Barracuda fans have plenty to look forward to as the team’s journey continues into the new year.
Featured image: Bristol University Barracuda American Football
