Home games prove tough work for Leeds's roller derby teams

Men’s side Aire Force One hosted their first ever home game at the Futsal Arena, against Grimsby-based the Brothers Grimm.

But it was the away team who took away the win, beating Aire Force One 259 points to 120.

It was a closer battle for Leeds Roller Dolls’ A-team, the Rebel Roses, who took on London Rollergirls’ Brawl Saints in tier one of the women’s British Roller Derby Championships.

But the Brawl Saints came out top, with 171 points to the Roses’ 113.

Aire Force One captain Adam Tomlinson said: “We are really proud to have hosted our first home game, it was an achievement and testament to those organising the day that everything ran fairly smoothly.

“Our game was really hard fought with the Brothers Grimm playing well, which ultimately led to a loss for us. I’m really proud of how the team rallied round and didn’t let their heads drop at any time in the game, with some real moments of excellence. As a team we are really looking forward to the next game in the Champs against Sons of Icarus on the July 10.”

Rebel Roses co-captain Nina Bentley said: “Saturday was brilliant, a great display of combining the hard work of LRD and AF1. We fought a tough game against London Brawl Saints, they gave us a great challenge. We are proud of our results in the British Champs and are feeling confident ahead of our tournament in Colorado, Mayday Mayhem, next month.”

Also playing on the day were men’s side Teeside Skate Invaders, who beat Sons of Icarus 349 point to 48.