Gameday Recap

Contact: George Howe, Media Relations Director
(773) 368-4848
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chicago Posts Lackluster Win

CHICAGO, IL. Two weeks off didn’t serve the Force very well. The offense appeared to be plodding through quicksand for most of the day with uninspired execution, but strong play as always by the defense, helped find a way to a lackluster 8-0 win against the Wisconsin Warriors. For whatever reason that can’t be explained by coaches or players, the Force aren’t playing with the swagger and confidence usually associated with an undefeated 5-0 team. With three regular season contests left and the post season looming there still is time to find the consistency. The team gathered at midfield for post game comments. Head Coach Jim Stahl scratched his head in frustration, and gave his shortest remarks of the season. "We certainly have the talent," said Stahl. "I just told them that we can’t be satisfied with our play and need to figure it out soon."

The day started out festive with the sun shining down on the 1000 or more enthusiastic fans at Holmgren Athletic Complex. New Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department Jody Weis and his wife Janice performed the ceremonial coin toss. The Force won the toss and elected to kick off. On the Warrior’s first offensive possession Force LB Pam Schaffrath intercepted Warrior QB Stefanie Brettingen. LB Tricia Charbonneau and CB Brandi Srda also each had a pick. Defensive game day MVP Jessica McPeake kept the Warriors pinned back in their own territory with booming punts throughout the game, while contributing ten tackles and a quarterback sack. Veteran safety Linda Bache thwarted the Warrior’s only real scoring chance by making a difficult play look routine when she leaped in the air and tipped away a pass that would have otherwise gone for a touchdown.

The Force scored the winning touchdown with five minutes remaining in the third quarter. Two big gains of 12 and 19 yards, by RB Melissa Smith, and a Warrior face mask penalty brought the ball to the one yard line. Versatile rookie Srda, inserted at running back ran through the right side of the Warrior defense into the end zone. QB Sami Grisafe converted the two point conversion. Srda, named offensive game day MVP, has been impressive scoring a touchdown in each of the Force games. It’s something that she takes pride in. "Once I realized that I was going to get an opportunity to play it was one of my goals to score every game," explained Srda. "I hope to continue the rest of the way."

The Force travel to Iowa May 24 to take on the Crush. Game time is 7:30 pm.