Gameday Recap

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vs.
CHICAGO FORCE vs. @Detroit Demolition
[5/12/2007]

Result: 23-20 L

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Time runs out on Force; Lose 23-20 to Detroit Demolition

LIVONIA, MI. The Chicago Force knew they let one get away. Sometimes in sports you get beat by a superior team ... and sometimes you beat yourself. That was the case on Saturday when the Force (now 1-1) lost 23-20 to the Detroit Demolition in the Force's second road trip of the season. In the final minute of the game the Force offense was driving down the field against the defending division champs. "We were going to score, but we ran out of time," said Head Coach Jim Stahl. Coach Stahl attributed the loss to mental errors. "We should have won that game by two touchdowns," he lamented, "we sabotaged ourselves with silly penalties and missed assignments." Indeed, a first quarter touchdown was called back for a penalty and several other promising drives were stalled by false starts, dropped passes and unforced fumbles.

The game featured some outstanding performances on both sides of the ball. Rookie quarterback Sami Grisafe had a break-out game, completing 18 of 33 attempts for 176 yards, 2 TD's, a 2 point conversion, and no interceptions. The Demolition defense struggled in coverage as she looked off her intended receivers and then delivered pinpoint passes. She had completions to six different receivers including Debbie Sanchez, Kim Marks and Bridget Fahrner. The offensive line performed well, which allowed the Force to establish a consistent ground game to accompany their passing attack. Melissa Smith led the team with 91 yards on 15 carries as she repeatedly lowered her shoulders and punished the Detroit defenders with her powerful running style.

As always, the Force defense came to play. The Demolition offense consistently had the benefit of good field position due to the play of their special teams. Although Detroit has a potent running game, they were clearly frustrated by how difficult it was for them to move the chains against the Force defense. The game plan by Defensive Coordinator Chris Maniatis was well-conceived and effective. Jennifer Dulski, Linda Bache, Shelley Picha, Luella Gesky, and Jessica McPeake led the defensive effort.

The Force will have an immediate opportunity for redemption and revenge when the Demolition come to their field this Saturday, May 19th for the Force home opener. It promises to be a physical and intense contest as the Force must win to keep their playoff hopes alive.