The South Gloucestershire and Stroud College (SGS) Pride American Football team opened their 2026 season just as they closed the previous year—with a hard-fought victory in their West Country derby against the Exeter Demons.
After narrowly losing to their Exeter University-based rivals two months earlier, the SGS squad came into their home game at the Stoke Gifford campus determined to assert dominance, ultimately securing a 20-6 win.
Despite the day’s weather shifting from bright sunshine to a heavy downpour, both teams delivered an intense and competitive match. Pride had to battle hard to claim victory on their own turf.
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The first half featured swift offensive bursts and frequent turnovers. Ash Bailey ignited the scoreboard with a decisive touchdown, giving the home side an early lead. Shortly after, Adam Deverill demonstrated his defensive prowess by forcing a safety and later scoring his own touchdown, crucial plays that energized the Pride.
Exeter fought back resiliently, with Luke Roxburgh’s two successful field goals keeping the Demons within striking distance at halftime.
In the second half, SGS took control through dynamic offense, highlighted by Owayne Montique’s impressive long touchdown run. Meanwhile, the home defense, led by Hawkan Hall and Xavier De Almada, relentlessly stifled Exeter’s attempts to close the gap.
Coach Ben Herod praised his team: “It was a really positive team performance coming off a long Christmas break. Our defense was outstanding, and the adjustments made by assistant coach Ashley Hopkins really enhanced our pass rush.”
Looking ahead, Herod expressed confidence as SGS prepares for their final regular-season home game: “We’re ready for our Severnside derby against Cardiff this Friday night under the lights, which promises to be an exciting contest.”
Exeter’s coach Jack Mullins acknowledged the challenge: “Playing the Pride in Bristol is always difficult. Both defenses were strong, and unfortunately, we couldn’t capitalize offensively when it counted. Now we’re focusing on our next game against Portsmouth.”