The Rams fell agonisingly short of a return to the Premiership North after a 21-10 loss to the Nottingham Caesars in the playoff semi-final on Sunday.

The Caesars took an early lead in the first quarter, with a series of big runs capped off by a touchdown on 3rd down, putting them up 7-0. The Rams responded with a field goal by Trishmpriyo Sarkar, narrowing the gap to 7-3, after a punt out of the endzone from the home side landed short in their own redzone.

The second quarter saw the Caesars extend their lead, capitalizing on an interception to score again. The Rams defence held firm but a well-executed draw play on third down resulted in a 30-yard touchdown run, making it 14-3. The Caesars struck once more before halftime when, after a big pass, they ran in another touchdown, pushing the score to 21-3.

The visitors had the chance to score on a strong drive but a fumbled snap on the Caesars’ 10-yard line ended their hopes. However, the Rams would get the ball straight back, with Kelvin Newsome cleverly intercepting a pass and returning it for a touchdown, cutting the deficit to 21-10.

The game was well poised at half time, with Nottingham costing themselves a couple of times with big penalties, including one that overturned a touchdown that kept the Rams in the game.

In the third quarter, the Rams missed a field goal attempt after a converted kick was ruled out for a false start but managed to block one from the Caesars. The Caesars’ daring fake punt from their own end zone added to the drama,but they couldn’t turn it into points and the Rams took over again. Unfortunately, the Rams would turnover the ball again when QB Dan Haywood attempted to pitch the ball to Elliot Jackson but the ball hit the ground and was recovered by the Caesars.

The fourth quarter was also a scoreless affair but was equally as entertaining as the rest of the game. The Rams’ defense recovered a fumble when the Caesars brought out their Wildcat formation, and a crucial 4th down conversion to Joey McEntee kept their hopes alive on the next drive. However, a debatable call by the officials on a catch by McEntee and a fumble by Jackson ultimately sealed the Rams’ fate as the Caesars ran out the clock to secure their victory.

Despite the loss, the Rams fought hard, with standout performances from Freddie Loach, who recorded multiple sacks, and Adam Knight, who made several big tackles. Faheem Hasan also made a significant catch, but the absence of Tyler Broad through injury was felt throughout the game.

In the end, it was a great battle, with the Rams fell just short of advancing to the final and the Premiership North but celebrating one of the most successful seasons in recent times.

Watch a replay of the game below from the Caesars’ YouTube channel:

Images courtesy of The70SDJ Sports Photography

Thanks to everyone who has supported the Rams this season, we’re already looking forward to the 2025 season!