Blaze win 27-7
On a cold Saturday night in April, the Blaze faced a tough challenge against WFA Pro rival Nevada Storm. The Blaze had failed to be able to overcome the Storm in two previous meetings and hoped to change their fortunes against the two time WFA champions.
BLAZE LEADERS
- RUSHING - #8 Valerie Garcia 4 rushes for 80 yards and 1 touchdown
- PASSING - #27 Kimberly Santistevan 5/17 for 30 yards
- RECEIVING - #15 Melanie Archuleta 3 catches for 15 yards
- DEFENSE - #7 KK Phelps 10 tackles, 2 sacks, 4 tackles for loss and 1 forced fumble
Three touchdowns in the 4th quarter fuel Blaze win!
Leading 6-0 after an electifying 65 yard run from Valerie Garcia in the 1st quarter, the game became a defensive battle until the Storm were able to connect on a 48 yard catch and run in the third quarter to take the lead 7-6.
Great Defense Leads to Score
The Blaze tightened up the screws on defense with crucial interceptions by Christina Skinner #73, Reese Peterson #10 leading to a short field where #27 Kimberly Santistevan orchestrated short drives that lead to two short touchdowns by Santistevan and #25 Carmen Whitehead.
Lacey Able #18 was able to put the cap on the scoring with the nail in the coffin in the form of a 70 yard interception returned for a touchdown.
Beating the Strom was something that we had been planning since we lost to them in the home opening game last year. They are a great team with a great coaching staff. It was a great way to start 2023.
Outstanding Team Play
Leilani Caamal #43 and KK Phelps #7 lead an attacking defense with help from the entire squad including #92 Shauntavia Brigham and #39 Tamara Taylor.
The Blaze offense was paced by the running of Garcia as well as solid contributions from Reese Peterson #10, Melanie Archuleta #15 and the entire offensive line. The Santistevan led team did not have any turnovers and made big plays at crucial times throughout the game.
