In sports, as in life, there are times when things just don’t work out. No matter how hard you try, there is an almost mystical reaction that prevents you from moving forward. Who has not happened? Well, today has been one of those days for the Barcelona Dragons.

The Central Conference leadership was on the line in Innsbruck, Austria. The Tyroleans began the first quarter sending a forceful message to the visitors: long drives, a combination of aerial and terrestrial plays, and a very well-armed defense. The first Touchdown came 3 minutes into the game, when the Raiders stood at the gates of the end zone, and a short run by Tobias Bonatti (RB) put the locals ahead. Possession for Dragons; on his first drive, Delay of Game, and three and out. That was just going to be a prelude to a game that got stuck for the Catalan franchise.

To make matters worse, the second quarter started with a Touchdown by Jarvis McClam, who would be one of the best players of the game, since the North American once again scored a huge TD for more than 70 yards. In the defensive part of the ‘corsairs’, the line stood out, greatly limiting the running game of the Dragons. In turn, the Linebackers were very attentive to the coverages of visiting receivers, completely disarticulating the attack. In fact, Conor Miller received his first interception (from Christoph Nitzlnader in the third quarter when they were in the Red Zone) and his first sack (from Nicolas Melcher in the fourth quarter) of the season.

Another key factor was the penalties received. On many occasions the Delay of Game took its toll on the Dragons’ attack, as well as the Pass Interference. In fact, one of the latter -a somewhat rigorous decision- frustrated what would have been Josh Johnston’s second Touchdown, and which ended with a 4th & GOAL that did not go well, after, again, a Delay in Game in the same drive.

However, the players never gave up. No one ever said it was going to be an easy road. But in defeats, and more in one of those days where you are denied and nothing comes out, is when you have to be more united. The Catalan franchise thus sees its good streak of two consecutive victories interrupted. Now, to think about next Saturday, at 7:00 p.m., where the Terrassa Olympic will have to be a fortress to host the Munich Ravens.