The Manchester Titans opened the 2014 Season with a convincing 52-13 win over League newcomers Walney at Salford.

3 Touchdowns by RB Nick Copley and 4 TD Passes by QB Alan Mead were more than enough to defeat the spirited Rookies from Cumbria, who were playing in their first ever BAFANL league game.

Manchester won the toss and elected to defer to the 2nd half whilst Walney decided to receive the opening kick-off. Because of the strong wind, the Titans chose to kick with the wind behind them and Ryan Newton’s kick sailed out of the back of the endzone for a touch-back. Manchester’s defense held the Terriers without a first down and forced them to punt, but the kick only travelled 7 yards because of the wind.

The Titans took over on Walney’s 33 yard line and QB Alan Mead immediately decided to strike with a long bomb down the left sideline to WR James Newnes for the touchdown on their first play from scrimmage. Ryan Newton added the extra point for a 7-0 lead. Newnes then made the tackle on the ensuing kick-off before the Titans defense forced their second 3 & out. Again the punt was hampered by the wind giving Manchester excellent field position.

Manchester’s defense forced another punt, but a fumble by RB Adam Newton handed the ball back to Walney inside Manchester’s 20 yard line. 5 plays later, Jones found Bradbury on a crossing pattern over the middle and the TE went into score the Terriers 2nd TD. Steven Soulsby added the kick making the score 52-13. A fumbled snap by backup QB Nigel Weston was recovered by the Terriers but the resulting FG was no good. Strong running from RB McGee, allowed the Titans to run out the clock as 52-13 winners.