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Unicorns off the mark!

After a tense close season, the Unicorns took to the field with an almost completely new side. Only 6 of the squad remained from last season's calamitous campaign.

The game was off to a rough start with veteran recruit van Buuren ko'd in the first turn and new hire Thornhill badly hurt soon after. A rare fumble from Sharks superstar Doctson allowed debutant Rafaelle Brigante to scoop up the ball and open the scoring in front of a sell-out Tin Spur.

The theme of the first half continued though as ogre Gryson and scorer Brigante were both injured, with the Tilean having to sit out next week, according to medical staff. The Unicorns did gain some revenge with 'The Butcher' Leboucher shattering Ferto's knee and 'The Tank' Montfort sending Walton for an unexpected appointment with the fans. Before the klaxon, Doctson managed to cross the line to tie things up.

In the second half, the diminished numbers only resulted in a more open game. Ola Adeniyi was caught fouling (although Coach Wilson was apoplectic as the referee failed to spot any of Seymour's match total of nine fouls and was subsequently sent to the stands). 'The Butcher' managed to knock out both Toibin and Marler in quick succession. That allowed Ottmar Wirt to hand off to Montfort who scored on his debut - an action that would result in a much deserved MVP nod.

From kick-off, the Sharks made the most of some fortunate blocks. Lobato suffered a serious head injury, van Buuren was knocked-out for the second time in the match, Wirt was hurt by Harrison (his second casualty of the game), Torossa was fouled off, and Giza suffered a k/o. The numerical advantage suited the Sharks and Doctson could stroll in uncontested just before the buzzer.

A solid opening day to the season with a draw that suits both sides at this stage, but the Unicorns will be concerned about their lack of options at Lineman with two new players having to miss a match already.”