Iowa Thunder are 3-1

THUNDER MOVE TO 3-1 WITH ROAD VICTORY OVER STAMPEDE

On Saturday, the Thunder faced off for their second time against divisional opponent the Nebraska Stampede in Ralston, NE.
This game from the beginning would be dominated by phantom referee calls costing the Thunder not only excellent field position, but also a 56 yard punt return touchdown by WR/FS Kendra Parker. Despite the obvious 12th man the Stampede had with on the field, the Thunder’s stingy defense and explosive offense would not be held back.
Quarterback Angela Schraeder connected with WR/FS Kendra Parker for a 32 yard strike to make the score 7-0 late in the first quarter. DE Jennifer Hirakawa, who in this game played in more of an outside linebacker roll would pick off two passes in the second quarter that led to a 12 yard run by TB Jennifer Boling to make the score 14-0 going into the half.
At halftime, Head Coach William Grimes and Offensive Coordinator Isaiah Shnurman decided to go double tight and pound the Stampede defense and run the clock. TB Jennifer Boling and FB Lulu Keoouthai would rip off big yardage including an amazing 51 yard touchdown run by Boling that put away the game in the middle of the third quarter.
The Stampede would eventually score on a broken assignment by the Thunder defense that made the score 21-6 late in the fourth quarter, but as most great teams do the Thunder would respond. With less than 21 seconds left in the game, the Stampede chose to kickoff instead of going for the onside kick. RB/DB Allie Millonig picked up the kick and scampered down the sideline for a 66 yard touchdown and a final score of 28-6.
“Despite what seemed like us most of the game playing not only against the Stampede but also the refs, I am very proud of my team. You always know that playing on the road and playing someone for the second time is going to be a tough thing to do. The Stampede are a team that is improving every week they play and as I told them when we circled up at the end of the game. Keep working, the wins come eventually.” Stated Head Coach William Grimes following the game.
The Thunder are at home on May 8, 2010 at 5pm at Martensdale-St. Mary’s Blue Devil Stadium against the Kansas City Spartans