There was some great Bantam football action on Saturday, October 19 at AD Penner park. The North End Nomads squared off against the Eastman Raiders in semi-final playoff action. Under a cloudy sky at the 11:00 am start time, the Raiders took the field in teal and black and the Nomads were wearing yellow and green. A short opening kickoff by the Raiders was recovered by the Nomads. The Nomads completed a pass and run play and moved down the field but were forced to punt. The Raiders hurry up offense came out running. A penalty on a wide hitch pass negated a big gain. A third down gamble netted 36 yards on a vigorous run by William Cruise #31. After a turnover on downs, the Nomads began on their own 33 yard line. They made first downs on solid running plays and a nice swing pass. A long run by number 10 for the Nomads led to a first and goal from the 4 yard line. The Nomads punched it in with a four yard run by number 10. The convert kick was good for an 8-0 lead. The quarterback for the Raiders, number 12 Austin Bueller, made a third-down conversion. This was followed by a 15 yard rub by Lack Lenchyshyn #32. The first quarter ended with the Raiders marching but down 0 to 8. Early in the second quarter, #19 caught a TD pass for the Raiders. The convert kick by #27 Jaden Martens was good to tie the game at 8. An on-sidekick attempt recovered by the boys in teal kept the momentum going. An errant snap led to second down and 25 situation. After a missed passing play the Raiders were forced to punt. The raiders defense was able to stop the Nomads attack and force an over on downs turn over. Two incomplete passes led to a punt. Raiders’ #34, Dakota Funk, had a nice tackle for a loss. A booming punt by the Nomads was followed by a productive Raiders drive. Again, they were turned back on a third and short gamble. #10 for the Nomads converted a third-down gamble down to the Raiders 39 yard line. An interception at the goal line by number 39 saved a touchdown. With one minute remaining in the half the Raiders moved the ball with receptions by #33 and #27. The Raiders were turned back by the Nomads on the third-down and the Nomads run out the clock on the first half. It was a very evenly matched first half with both teams running well on the ground and completing a few passes. The defenses both made a lot of great plays and give up yards grudgingly. Quarterback #12 for the Raiders ran in for a TD with 7 minutes left. The convert was good. 16-14. The Nomads regrouped and marched down the field capping off their drive with a TD run by #10. They missed the convert. 20-16 nomads. Oliver Peters #30 returned the kick and the Raiders offence started again. Jack Lenchyshyn #32 had big run. Austin Bueller #12 had two long runs to make it first and goal. After being stopped twice, the touchdown was scored by #12 up the middle on a spread formation. With 2:14 left in the game the Raiders were ahead 24-20. The Nomads began the last drive of the game on their 50 yard line. Long, determined runs by #10 took them down to the Raiders 22. Time out was called. Time to catch up on breathing for both fans and players. There was only 1:36 left in the game. The Nomads continued pounding away for a first down with 51 seconds left. The Raiders topped the Nomads twice making it 3rd and goal. The referees had a meeting and a Raiders penalty made it first down for the Nomads on the Raiders 1 yard line with 20 seconds left. They punched it in for the TD but missed extra point. The score was 26-24 with 14.5 seconds left. The Raiders threw the ball downfield, but no there was no interference flag on a long pass. The Raiders ran out of time and the semi-final game ended with a 26-24 final score. Congratulations on a fantastic, hard fought game by both squads.

It was a chilly morning out however, our crunchers team started the game off with a bang, recovering our kickoff to the other team. #66, Joshua throws the ball to #13 Eric, who completes the pass for a second down. Next play results in a TD by #13, Eric. #35 Noah trips up while running in for the convert, didn’t make it to the endzone. Next big play comes from the Nomads which gets them their first TD of the game with the convert good for the extra point. Kickoff to our boys ends with #50, Devon running it to the endzone for a TD. #35 Noah tries again for the convert and this time its good. Off the kick is a big tackle by #66, Joshua followed by a team tackle by #55, Gavin, #5, Austin and #50, Devon. 1st down for the Nomads. 50 yard run by one of the Nomads leaves our boys breathless trying to catch up. #13 Eric digs deep and finds a burst of speed and catches up for a huge tackle. Next play has #50 Devon showing off his Megatron side with the takedown, knocking the ball loose, #55 Gavin has keen eyes and recovers the ball! #35 Noah gets the ball handed to him and runs it for a 1st down. #5 Austin runs the ball the next play and navigates his way through to find an opening, running for 60 (or so) yards for a TD. The crowd goes wild!! No convert point however. Tackle by #55 Gavin off the kickoff. Then we have #82 Boston run 40yards for the tackle. #63 Gavin and #55 Gavin do a team tackle stopping the opposing teams play in their tracks. That takes us to half-time. Both teams duck into the clubhouse where they tried to get the chill out. Jackets were on, and the kids had hand warmers to try to get the feeling back into their hands.

2nd half starts with #66 Joshua recovering the ball. #35 Noah runs the ball for a 1st down. #5 Austin evades getting tackled again and gets him in the endzone for another TD. Convert is good after #13 Eric catches the ball. Fumble recovery by #13 Eric gives him the opportunity to take it all the way and he does! TD!! No convert point. Nomads ball. They take the ball up the field getting a TD with #50 Devon stopping the play for the convert. Kickoff, ball goes to #5 Austin who uses some fancy footwork to leave his opponents dazed and confused. He takes the ball in for another TD! No convert.#55 recovers the ball which gives us another TD opportunity. Reverse play by #13 Eric to #82 Boston getting a 1st down. Pass play is intercepted by the other team with #66 Joshua following up with a tackle. #66 Joshua makes one more big tackle to take us to the end of the game. What a great last game! Way to go guys!

First Half
The Raiders opened the game with a great kickoff. The defense held the Patriots in moving the ball downfield and forced a 3rd down punt. Now the Raiders tried to move the ball but we’re unable due to a number of penalties and turned the ball over. Now the Patriots took possession at their 40 yard line. The Raiders defense held the Patriots and forced a 3rd down punt. The Raiders Dustin Erickson (#54) blocked the punt and now the Raiders had possession at the Patriots 20 yard line. The Raiders offense took advantage of the momentum change and scored their first TD when Jack Lenchyshyn (#32) ran the ball into the end zone. The convert was good and the Raiders led the score 8 to 0. The Raiders had a great kick return and now the Patriots had possession at their 45. The possession did not last long as the Raiders Kyle Giesbrecht-Martens (#39) intercepted the ball to give the Raiders possession at the Patriots 40. And again the offense took advantage of the Patriots when Gabriel Funk (#91) ran for the Raiders 2nd TD. The Raiders missed the convert attempt but now the score was 14 to 0. The Raiders return kick was received by the Patriots who were unable to gain a first down. This was in part to the many great tackles by the defense, especially Barrett Friesen (#37). The Raiders offense again took advantage of the momentum swing. The Raiders took possession at their 40 yard line and scored their 3rd TD of the game when Austin Buhler (#12) ran the ball up the middle with some great blocking from the offensive line. The convert was again missed but the Raiders now led 20 to 0. The Raiders kicked the ball to the Patriots and they now had possession at their 45. The Raiders took a few penalties which allowed the Patriots to get a first down at the Raiders 50. The Raiders Dakota Funk (#34) made a huge QB sack and forced the turnover. The Raiders now had possession at the Patriots 20 yard line. The offense again made short work of Patriots when Jack Lenchyshyn (#32) and William Cruise (#31) completed a series of running plays for the Raiders 4th TD. This time the convert was good and the score was 28 to 0. Now the Raiders had a great kick return and Dustin Erickson (#54) made another great tackle to stop the Patriots. The Patriots also had a penalty on the play which gave them possession at their 20 yard line. Now it was the Patriots turn to step things up. They completed a 20 yard pass and ran the ball to the Raiders 40. The defense were not able to hold the Patriots and they ran the ball in for their 1st TD. The convert was good and the score was 28 to 8 for the Raiders. Now the Raiders Jack Lenchyshyn (#32) returned the Patriots kick all the way for their 5th TD of the game. The Raiders took 2 attempts to make the convert due to a too many men penalty. The score was 36 to 8 for the Raiders. The Raiders now attempted a short kick and we’re able to recover at their 50. The Raiders moved the ball downfield but eventually turned the ball over to the Patriots for yards not gained at the Patriots 45. The Patriots could not move the ball either and we’re forced to a 3rd down punt. The Raiders Kyle Giesbrecht -Martens (#39) returned the kick all the way back to the Patriots 15 yard line. The Raiders took a few attempts to make the TD due to penalties, but Austin Buhler (#12) completed the pass to William Cruise (#31). The convert was good and the Raiders led the score. Now the Patriots received the kick but fumbled the ball and William Cruise (#31) recovered the ball and ran it to the Patriots 30. The offense was unable to move the ball and executed a 3rd down punt into the end zone for the single point. The Patriots took possession at their 35 but we’re unable to move the ball which gave the Raiders possession. And that was the end of the first half.

Second half
The Patriots attempted a short kick but the Raiders recovered the ball at their 50. The Raiders were unable to move the ball and executed a 3rd down punt. Now the Patriots had possession at their 25. The Patriots attempted a passing play that was knocked down by Kyle Giesbrecht – Martens (#39). This led to the turnover which gave the Raiders possession at the Patriots 25. The Raiders Jack Lenchyshyn ( #32 ) ran the ball in for the Raiders 7th TD. They were unable to convert. The Patriots received the ball but did not go far when the Raiders Luyanda Magonya ( #80 ) made a huge tackle to hold the Patriots at their 40. Now the Raiders defense held the Patriots. The Raiders Graham Cruise (#52 ) intercepted the ball and ran to the Patriots 15. The Patriots now held the Raiders and gained possession at their 10 yard line. The Patriots moved the ball downfield for a first down. Now again Dakota Funk ( #34 ) made a huge QB sack which led to the Patriots 3rd down punt. The Raiders Oliver Peters ( #30 ) returned the ball 25 yards for the Raiders 8th TD of the game. The convert was good. The Patriots received the kick but again were unable to move the ball and the Raiders took possession at the Patriots 50. The Raiders Austin Buhler ( #12 ) ran the ball up the middle for the TD. The Raiders ran the ball into the end zone for the convert (1 point). Again the Patriots received the ball but were losing interest in the game. The Raiders Dustin Erickson ( #54 ) intercepted the ball and ran for another Raiders TD. The Patriots received the ball but again gave up another interception to the Raiders Kyle Giesbrecht – Martens ( #39 ). And that was the end of the game.

When you reach the playoffs in football, you never know if this is going to be your last game of the season or just your next game of the season. The only thing you know is that you have to give it your all and then, the game will turn out how it’s supposed to. That’s how sports goes. The only thing you can control is how hard you try and how much heart you put into it. Well, in the rain, wind and cold – our Pee Wee Raiders gave it their all. They’ve done that all season. So, since this is my last write-up of the 2013 season – I figured I better give it my all. And here’s how the game went.

Broncos kicked off and the game began. Teg got the 1st carry and on his second carry, had a huge 46 yard run! Well done! A great march by our offense but we couldn’t quite find the end zone so, defense took to the field. The Broncos quarterback ran the field to the end zone but an illegal block brought it back. Paxton hunted the runner down and took him down. Andrew had a huge tackle in the backfield but then, a screen pass to their #33 and he was gone. (6-0 Broncos) The kick was also good. (8-0 Broncos) Offence took a short turn on the field and then, the defense went back to work. George had a super diving tackle, George shook a big block on the next play and grabbed the runner but on their third try, #33 slipped through our fingers and was gone (14-0 Broncos) Hard work by our defense stopped their running game and turned the ball over on downs. After our offense gave it their best — #33 just kept churning his legs till he found the end zone. (20-0 Broncos) Defense’s next turn on the field was met with success and they turned the ball over on downs. This time the offense made it count!! The O-line stood strong and with some great blocking made a hole just big enough for Mason to break through and he was gone!! TOUCHDOWN Raiders!! (20-6 Broncos) Mason kicked the convert and it was GOOD! (20-8 Broncos) Paxton threw the runner down on the next play and caused him to fumble – we recovered!! Mason ran a hard fought 2 yards, Austin ran for 5 yards and Mason got a big first down – but no score this time. A huge tackle by George for a loss of yards and defense was on the field for a long time and held them with no score!! Yes!! Lennox caused a fumble on the pass. When Mason punted our next ball, it was long and Austin had a huge stop!! Keone, Andrew and George powered through for a loss of yards. TB and Parker stopped the screen pass short but a few high tackles and #33 got away. (26-8 Broncos) Defense was back on and a team effort brought them down a number of times but a great run by their speedy #2 and it was a score for the Broncos. (32-8 Broncos) 3 quick tries by us and the defense was called on again. Super tackling causing a fumble and we, once again, recovered. Great job defense!! Avery showed great speed to push the runner out, TB sprinted to stop the next one, but a completed Broncos pass resulted in a score. (38-8 Broncos) Our offense returned, highlighted by a completed screen pass to Jayden. The defense returned to finish off the game, which included a huge tackle by Paxton, a near interception by Nick that broke up their play and George wrapping up the runner’s legs and the rest of the defense finished him off.

So, now we knew. This was, indeed, the last game of our 2013 season. A season FILLED with success. A young Pee Wee team showing the rest of the league that we had some great football in us!! A young Pee Wee team that learned how to win by winning and who held their heads high and learned from their losses when they had to. (which really wasn’t very often) So many of us watched you work, not only in the games, but in all of those practices. Don’t forget that it was back in the middle of July that the work started and we are SO proud of you for your sacrifice, commitment and your drive to be the best you could be!! We think you ARE the best. More than one team commented on what a great group of young men you are. Helping others up… playing with good, disciplined skill and playing because you love the game and your teammates. You represented us as well as anyone could have and we are still cheering for this team in our hearts!! You are champions and we know that for many of you, there is lots of football yet to come!! Thank you coaches for sacrificing your time, and putting your heart and soul into these boys. Your influence will not be forgotten!! Thank you Deb for managing this team like a pro!! Thank you volunteers for making it all possible. And THANK YOU players and one last time for this time around — GO RAIDERS GO!!

It was a crisp, cool morning as we walked to the field seeing our breath. However, the boys were ready to play. Gavin N. had 2 great tackles with the help of Joshua, but struggled to keep the Eagles from scoring their first touchdown. However, the defence made up of Kyle, Boston,Wilson, Gavin Haywood, Eric and Gavin N. worked hard to stuff them – keeping the eagles from scoring a conversion. The Eagles’ defence came on strong but Eric found a hole and ran for a first down on a fourth down conversion. 2 hard fought runs by Noah and another by Eric earned the Raiders there first 1st down.Then Noah broke through the Eagles tough defence and ran into the end zone. Eric found some rockets in his shoes and sped in for the conversion. The Eagles answered back with a long run that scored a touchdown, but once again, they were unable to score a conversion. The Raiders, on the other hand cheered Austin into the end zone giving us our second touchdown of the game before halftime. The Raiders O line powered by Devon,Tyler and Zach helped QB Joshua hand the ball off to Austin and Noah numerous times. The offence marched down the field, eating up the clock and scoring another touchdown and convert. Special teams consisting of Austin, Joshua, Noah, Gavin N. , Devon and Boston managed to reclaim the ball as Devon jumped it after a great hoof. That brought our offence back onto the field, but the strong Eagles defence stopped us from scoring. A big downfield tackle by Boston, a D line stuff and a powerful tackle by Devon kept the Eagles from getting their much needed first down. The game ended with the offence on the field. Well played game, Crunchers!

It’s cold. It’s windy. Who’s ready for a playoff football game?? The Pee Wee Raiders, that’s who!! The boys came out firing on all cylinders and it was fun to watch. Here’s how it went:

Nick caught the first kick off. Then, a long run by Mason, a short run by Teg, and a crucial 3 yards by Mason for a 1st down. Austin got the ball and powered into the end zone for touchdown #1. (6-0 Raiders) A huge kick by Teg and the 2 point convert was good! (8-0 Raiders) A short kick by Mason and RECOVERED by us!! Offense was on again. Back to defense, super pressure by Paxton and a tackle by Isaac and the ball was turned over on downs. It was a quick offensive outing and our defense was called on again. Alex got a hold of the runner and held on till the rest of the team could finish the tackle. Andrew pulled down the next runner and once again – turnover on downs! Offense made their next possession count. 1 broken tackle, some super runs and then an 80 yard run by Mason and we scored!! (14-0 Raiders) Mason kicked it right through the uprights. (16-0 Raiders) Our defense remained strong as the defensive line held the runner and Nick and Parker flew in to finish the tackle. On came the offense. A big hole created by the offensive line and blockers and Mason was gone!! (22-0 Raiders) Another massive kick by Teg through the goal posts and 2 more points were ours. (24-0 Raiders) Big pressure by the D-line all game, George recovered the fumble to make it Raiders’ ball. Adam, Riley Karlenzig, Dylan K and Isaiah stood strong to give our offense time. Mason had to try twice because of a Raider penalty – but found the end zone on the second run. (30-0 Raiders) Mason took his turn at kicking and the 2 point convert was GOOD! TB flew down the field on the long kick off and stopped them right where they started. Nick wrapped up the running back, Gab tackled for a loss of yards, Parker took a hit but won the battle and Paxton broke through to get in the quarterback’s space and Nick knocked the pass away. Yep – it was Raider’s ball once again. A long completed pass from Tyson K. got us to the 1 yard line and a simple hand off to Teg and he ran over the line. Touchdown! He followed that up with a kick for 2 points. Go Raiders. Defense continued their solid play as Paxton wrapped up the runner, super defense by Daniel caused an incomplete pass by the Rods and the ball was back to us. A super escape and run by Austin got us to the 1 yard line and after some good pass attempts, the run by Mason got us another 6 points. We mixed it up a little and a completed pass from Egan to Dylan W. added yet another point to the Raiders’ side. Big hustle by Keone pushed their runner right into TB’s arms – tackle! But the next play turned out to be a bright spot for the Rods, #53 broke through the middle and after a long run found the end zone. (36-6 Raiders) On their convert attempt, Raiders’ defense blocked the kick to hold them to just one score. A 15 yard completion from Tyson to Austin, a super fake pass by Tyson K and a hand off to Mason and 45 yards later – touchdown! Teg kicked for 2 and it was good! Keone stayed on the runner and brought him down holding him to 5 yards, then came a blocked punt and recovery by Nathan!! 3 quick downs and we punted. Strong defense and coverage and the ball was back to us. A great run by Teg and a big push by the O-line for a 1st down and the quarterfinal on the Saturday side was in the history books.

The first step is complete but now the steps get even steeper. Be ready, be excited, keep playing how you can and doing what you know!! Trust your training boys! You have worked hard!! Not for the easy games but for the ones that count. One play at a time with more effort than you’ve ever given and we’ll be just fine! GO RAIDERS GO!!!

First Half
The Raiders opened the game with a great kickoff. The teams battled but the Raiders were able to hold the Falcons from getting downfield. The Raiders then opened the scoring when Gabriel Funk (#91) received a 15 yard pass to run the ball all the way to the Falcons end zone for the TD. The convert was good and the Raiders led the score 8 to 0. Now it was the Falcons turn to move the ball. The Raiders kicked the ball to the falcons who really received it but where unable to gain a first down and turned over the ball at the Falcons 45 yard line. Now the Raiders were able to move the ball downfield with a series of running plays. The Raiders ran the ball in for a TD, but it was called off due to an illegal block against the Raiders. The Raiders took a 15 yard penalty and had to try again. The Raiders William Cruise (#31) was able to run the ball in for the Raiders 2nd TD of the game. Again the convert was good and the Raiders led the game 16 to 0. The Falcons received the kick and on their first down, attempted a passing play that was picked off by Tyler Wiebe (#42) and the Raiders took possession at the Falcons 45. The Raiders moved the ball downfield by running and passing the ball. It was first and goal with 5 yards to go. The Falcons defended hard and held the Raiders and forced the turnover. Now the Falcons had possession at their 5 yard line. The Raiders now took a 15 yard penalty for unnecessary roughness which gave the Falcons the first down at their 20 yard line. The Raiders held the Falcons and forced a 3rd down punt. The Raiders Graham Cruise (#52) received the punt and returned the ball to the Falcons 15 yard line. The Raiders took a 15 yard penalty for holding. The Falcons took advantage of the momentum and picked off the ball and now had possession at the Falcons 10 yard line. The momentum was short lived for the Falcons though, when Dakota Funk (#34) picked up a fumbled Falcons ball and ran for the Raiders 3rd TD. The convert was good and now the score was 24 to 0. The Raiders kicked the ball and the Falcons returned the ball to their 50 yard line. The Raiders sacked the Falcons QB! Now the Falcons rallied and ran the ball down field to gain the first down at the Raiders 50 yard line. Apparently the Raiders defense now decided to stop the rush and held the Falcons from moving the ball. Cyrus O’Connor (#66) made a huge QB sack that ultimately gave the Raiders possession at the Falcons 40 yard line. The Falcons responded however and held the Raiders and forced the turnover. Then the Raiders did the same and that was the end of the first half.

Second half
The Falcons tried a short kick, but the Raiders recovered the ball at the 55 yard line. Now the Raiders moved the ball downfield through a series of running plays and Falcon penalties. The Raiders Jack Lenchyshyn (#32) ran the ball until he was hauled down by his facemask. The Falcons received the penalty and on the next play Jack finished his run to gain the Raiders 4th TD of the game. The convert was good and the score was 32 to 0 for the Raiders. The Raiders now returned the favor to the Falcons and attempted a short kick. The Raiders were successful when Nic Wareham (#60) recovered the ball at the Falcons 50 yard line. Now the Raiders Luyanda Magonya (#80) ran the ball for a first down. Then Tyler Bueckert (#33) ran the ball to the Falcons 25 yard line for another first down. But the Falcons now fought hard and forced the turnover. The Falcons took possession at their 20 yard line but where unable to gain the first down and the Raiders regained possession at the Falcons 20. The Raiders Austin Buhler (#12) implemented a QB sneak and ran in for the Raiders 5th TD. The Raiders were unable to convert but lead by a score of 38 to 0. The Falcons received the kick and took possession at their 40 yard line. The Raiders held the Falcons and forced a 3rd down punt. Kyle Giesbrecht-Martens (#39) returned the punt to the Falcons 45 yard line, but took possession at the Raiders 50 yard line due to a 15 yard penalty for an illegal block. Now the Raiders made a series of running plays by Tyler Bueckert (#33) for 25 yards, Eric Adams (#2) for 20 yards, and Luyanda Magonya (#80) for the Raiders 6th TD. Again the Raiders were unable to convert but led the game by a score of 44 to 0. The Falcons received the kick. They moved the ball downfield for a first down at the Raiders 50. And that was the game….

Saturday’s game was filled with ups and downs for our Raiders grey crunchers. We had some great blocking up front by #69, and a great touchdown run by #61. A great tackle by #12, with help from #48. The game was all tied up with two plays to go and we got fooled on a double reverse for a touchdown.

KIckoff Raiders by number #50 Devan and recovered by #5 Austin. Handoff to # 35 Noah who ran it in for the touchdown. Extra point thrown by # 66 Joshua to #50 Devan for the point. Kickoff Raiders #50 Devan, tackle by #55 Gavin 1st down tackle by #50 devon. 2nd down tackle by #82 Boston #63 Calvin and by #50 Devan. 3rd down pressure from #50 Devan #55 Calvin and #13 Eric lead to incomplete pass. 4th down pressure from front line no gain Raiders ball 1st down no gain. 2nd down hand off by #66 Joshua to #35 Noah for a touchdown good front line blocks allowed for extra point by #5 Austin. Kickoff by Raiders #50 Devan fumble picked up by #66 Joshua for a touchdown. Extra point by #5 Austin. Kickoff #50 Devan stopped by #55 Calvin. 1st down tackle by #35 Noah. Gain 2nd down, tackle by #35 Noah. No gain 3rd down pressure from front line, no gain 4th down. Incomplete pass, Raiders ball. 1st down thrown by #66 Joshua to #5 Austin. Incomplete 2nd down handoff by #66 Joshua to #35 Noah who ran for the touchdown. Extra point by #5 Austin. Kickoff by #59 Devon recovered by #66 Joshua. Raiders 1st down blocks from #50 Devon, #30 Tyler, and #88 Zach which allowed #5 Austin to run for a touchdown. Extra point scored by #88 Zach. After half time, ball is kicked-off by #50 Devan aka “Megatron”. 1st down no gain, 2nd down tackle by #50 Devan and #5 Austin for no gain. 3rd down incomplete, and 4th down tackle by #5 Austin results in a turnover making it Raiders ball. 1st down blocks by #50 Devan, #30 Tyler, and #88 Zach, allowing #82 Boston to run all the way for a touchdown. Extra point by #66 Joshua thrown to #5 Austin, and the point is good. Kickoff by #50 Devan. Tackle by #55 Calvin, 1st down tackle by #5 Austin. No gain, 2nd down tackle by #88 Zach and #5 Austin. No gain, 3rd down tackle by #55 Calvin and #5 Austin. 4th down incomplete making it Raiders ball. 1st down handoff from #66 Joshua to #35 Noah who ran all the way for the touchdown. Extra point is no good, kickoff by Raiders #50 Devan, tackle by #66 Joshua and #35 Noah. 1st down tackle by #66 Joshua. No gain, 2nd down tackle by #3 Wilson and #55 Calvin. No gain, 3rd down tackle by #63 Calvin and #55 Calvin. No gain 4th down, and an incomplete pass are made to end the game.

Kick off- Treyton tackled at 10 yd line. Trey made tackle at 25 line. Cazden made tackle at 20 line.. Loss of yards. Cazden made tackle at 20 line.. No yards. Trey tackled at 20.. No yards. Mikka picked up our own fumble, ran in for TD. Damon missed a tackle, but tried again and stopped the return just short of a TD. Cazden made a big block for Damon who ran the ball from their 30 for a TD. Damon made a tackle just before half time to stop a TD.

After half-time, Cazden ran the return in for a TD. Hand off to Damon who ran for the convert. Noah recovered a nomad fumble during their convert attempt. Cazden ran in the return for a TD. Mikka ran in convert. Hand off to Mikka for TD run. Trey stopped the convert. Cazden and Mikka made good blocks for Damon to run about 15 yds. Mikka ran about a 40 yd TD. Mikka ran in the convert.

First Half
The Raiders opened the game with a great kickoff. Unfortunately mother nature did not cooperate and it rained throughout the entire game. The players were wet and so were the fans. I guess we were thankful it wasn’t snowing. The Raiders defense held the Mustangs from moving the ball and forced the turnover. The Raiders offense were able to gain a 1st down, but turned over the ball at the Raiders 52 yard line. The Raiders defense held the Mustangs and forced them to attempt a 3rd down punt. The Raiders blocked the punt. Now the Raiders took possession at the Raiders 53 yard line. The offense moved the ball 5 yards but we’re unable to get the 1st down. Now the Mustangs tried to move the ball but we’re also unable. The Mustangs fumbled the ball on their 3rd down attempt and the Raiders recovered the ball. The rain was definitely slowing down play and the teams were having trouble moving the ball through running plays. Now the Raiders offense took possession at the 55 yard line but we’re unable to gain yards and we’re forced to a 3rd down punt. The Mustangs now ran the ball back to their 40 yard line and made a push and gained the first down at the Raiders 33 yard line. Now the Raiders defense responded with some crushing tackles by Dustin Erickson (#54) and Graham Cruise (#52) to hold the Mustangs from getting another 1st down. It was 3rd down with 1 yard to go for the Mustangs and Cyrus O’Connor (#66) made a QB sack to give the Raiders possession at the Raiders 40 yard line. Now the offense moved the ball and gained the 1st down at the Mustangs 53 yard line. But the Mustangs defense did not give up and forced the turnover. The game went back and forth with the inability to move the ball by both teams until Kyle Giesbrecht-Martens (#39) picked off the ball and gave the Raiders possession at the Raiders 45 yard line. This seemed to be a momentum changer as the Raiders offense started passing the ball. Austin Buhler (#12) threw a 15 yard pass to Dakota Funk (#34) who ran the ball to the Mustangs 10 yard line for the 1st down. Now Austin Buhler (#12) ran the ball to within 2 yards and then Jack Lenchyshyn (#32) ran the last 2 yards with great blocking to give the Raiders the first TD of the game. The Raiders were able to convert and now lead by a score of 8 to 0. The Raiders now started working a little harder and were able to recover their return kick. The Raiders offense took possession at the Mustangs 50 yard line and Austin Buhler (#12) threw a 30 yard pass to Gabriel Funk (#91) who ran the ball to the Mustangs 20 yard line. Now the Raiders passed again and gained another 1st down at the Mustangs 10 yard line. Now the wet weather made the ball slippery and the Raiders fumbled the ball. The Mustangs took possession at their 10 yard line and that was the end of the first half.

Second Half
The Raiders received the kick and the Mustangs were unable to hold the Raiders as William Cruise (#31) ran the ball for the Raiders 2nd TD of the game. Again the convert was good and the score was now 16 to 0. The Mustangs returned the Raiders kick back to their 50 yard line. The Mustangs pushed hard and gained the 1st down at the Raiders 45. Now the Raiders made a QB sack causing a fumble that the Raiders recovered. Now the Raiders offense took advantage and Austin Buhler (#12) along with great blocking ran the ball all the way downfield for the Raiders 3rd TD of the game. Again the Raiders were able to convert and now lead the game 24 to 0. Now the Mustangs were able to return the ball to their 45 yard line. The Raiders defense held them and forced a 3rd down punt. Now the Raiders took possession at the 55 yard line. In the next play William Cruise (#31) ran the ball for a 1st down at the Mustangs 40 yard line. The Mustangs defense now worked hard and forced a 3rd down punt. The Mustangs now had possession at their 15 yard line. They were unable to move the ball and actually lost yards. On their 3rd down, the Mustangs decided to take a safety in their own end and then were able to return kick to the Raiders from their 35 yard line. The Mustangs plan did not work out because the Raiders were able to return the ball back to the Mustangs 10 yard line. The Raiders now were leading by a score of 26 to 0 and were 1st and goal. The Raiders took advantage and again Austin Buhler (#12) ran the ball in for the Raiders 4th TD. The Raiders were unable to convert but now led the game 32 to 0. The Mustangs received the kick but were unable to gain a 1st down and turned over the ball at the Mustangs 40 yard line. The Raiders took a penalty and were forced to punt the ball on their 3rd down. The Mustangs now had possession at their 35 yard line. The Raiders defense held the Mustangs again by some great tackles by Graham Cruise (#52) and Oliver Peters (#30) to force the turnover. The Raiders offense now took possession at the Mustangs 30 yard line. The Raiders offense now were able to move the ball through the efforts of William Cruise (#31) and Jack Lenchyshyn (#32) along with the blocking ability of the offensive line to gain the 1st down. The offense finished the charge with the Raiders 5th TD of the game. The convert was good and now the Raiders led the game by a score of 40 to 0. The Mustangs made one last attempt at moving the ball but again were held by the Raiders defense through great tackles from Tyler Wiebe (#42) and Oliver Peters (#30). The Mustangs attempted to run the ball on the 3rd down but fumbled the ball and the Raiders took possession at the Mustangs 50 yard line. The Raiders tried to move the ball but turned over the ball because of yards not gained. And that was the end of the game. It was now time for everyone to go get dried off…

We will call this game the Rain Bowl. It was a cold and rainy day on Saturday but overall a good day for some football. The boys were a little apprehensive to get wet at the beginning of the game but soon realized that the rain had drenched them already. The defence came out and stuffed the opponents on their first drive with some great tackling by #45 and #69. On the Raiders first possession we fumbled the ball and it was recovered by the Lions. The lions scored off the turnover but on the ensuing kickoff # 45 returned the kick for a touchdown on a spectacular run. The rain made it difficult to hold on to the ball and both teams exchanged some fumbles before the half. Second half, the kids started to feel the cold as the wind picked up and the rain continued to come down. We stayed in the game and showed some real determination despite some frozen fingers and soaked feet. Overall, a great gutsy effort by our boys given the conditions.

1st Quarter
With the playoffs one week away the Raiders looked to be in to their stiffest test yet hosting the 7-0 Mustangs. The Mustangs opened the game returning the opening kickoff 63yds to the Raiders 7yd line. After a couple short gains the Mustangs found the end zone and it was quickly 6-0 Mustangs. The Raiders scrimmaged 1st and 10 from their own 45yd line and looked to answer. After a first down run by Logan the offence sputtered and turned it over on downs. After both teams went 3 and out on their next drives the Mustangs got some luck recovering their own fumble on 1st down. On 2nd down the Mustangs #13 took it 55yds for the touchdown building the Mustang lead to 12-0. The Raiders continued to struggle on offensive registering only 2 first downs in the first quarter.

2nd Quarter
The second quarter started just like the first with the Mustangs marching down the field with their star player #13 ripping off another big run for a touchdown and the Raiders looked like they were in for a long afternoon on their home field trailing 18-0 early in the second quarter. On the ensuing kickoff Payton sparked the home side with a great 30yd kick return setting the Raiders up 1st and 10 from the 30yd line. 3 plays later Payton hooked up with Bryson for 25yds and the Raiders were 1st and goal. Payton took the next play to the house and after a successful kick for 2 by Logan the Raiders were back in it. Logan pounded the kickoff deep all the way down to the Mustangs 30yd line. The defence stiffened with Sawyer’s tackle for a loss of 4 and Teddy making a tackle for no gain on 3rd down. This great defensive stand set up the Raiders nicely at the Mustangs 25yd line. After a gain of 8 by Bryson, Payton took it down to the 5 with Logan finishing things off with a 5 yard scamper to the end zone. Wow the Raiders looked like a completely different team here in the second quarter. Unfortunately after a couple timeouts by the Mustangs to stop the clock # 13 ripped off another long run with 1.4 seconds left till halftime to give them a 10 point lead at the half.

3rd quarter
Raiders offensive came out sluggish in the second half with a quick 3 and out. On the very next play Anthony forced #13 to fumble and Sawyer was quick to pounce on the loose football. The offence moved the ball down the field with Aidan A first down run and Logan doing the same with one of his own. Payton then found his favorite target on the afternoon Bryson for 17 more. Unfortunately the drive stopped at the Mustang 20 where the Mustangs took over.  On 2nd down #13 took it to the end zone escaping a few tackles which he seemed to do all afternoon to put the Mustangs up comfortably at 30-14.  Our Raiders weren’t giving up quite yet as on the kickoff return Anthony juked and jived his way to the Mustang 35yd line. Unfortunately after a roughing the passer call the Raiders drive stalled at the Mustang 32yd line. This seemed to be the story of the second half just not coming up with the big plays we were accustomed to seeing by our Raider offence.

4th Quarter
Mustangs controlled the ball for much of the 4th quarter and managed a final touchdown in garbage time to come out victorious 36-14.  A few tackles here or there, a couple more breaks and this game could have turned out much different. Great effort by our boys who had already clinched a playoff birth prior to this game.  Playoffs begin next week. Come out and cheer our Raider team to a victory!!!

So, here’s what we knew before this game began. The sun was shining and it was going to be a great day for football. We also knew that we were playing a very tough opponent. We knew we’d have to be firing on all cylinders to have any success and we knew that we had to take it one play at a time and give it our all. What we didn’t know was HOW great a day it was going to be for football – for RAIDER football!! Here we go:

Some great variety in the offense and a great push by Mason got us into the end zone first. (6-0 Raiders) The defense made a HUGE stand to stop them near our end zone and turn the ball over on downs. Teg showed some super legs but eventually the ball went back to them. Isaac and Andrew got through the line and Keone and crew wrapped up the next runner. Isaac took care of their #5 in the backfield and the ball was back to us. Some super blocks on the line for Mason to break free for a 70 yard touchdown run. (12-0 Raiders) The 2 point convert kick by Mason was good. (14-0 Raiders) Our defense never let down for a second as there was a stop by Andrew and TB, then, Isaac and Parker worked together for a tackle. A bobble on the snap by the Eagles and Parker tackled the QB at full speed…. Turn over on downs!! Our offence made some progress but eventually had to punt and a huge flying kick by Mason pinned them deep in their own end. Solid defence forced them to punt. Our offence took their turn and then, with time running out, their offence made some progress till TB grabbed the runner and just wouldn’t let go to end the half scoreless for them!

Half time did not slow our boys down as the defense started things off with serious pressure from the defensive line over and over again! Andrew pressure and Parker came in to stop their running back. Nick wrapped the runner up on the outside for a loss of yards. The next play was a super high punt and TB landed on it. Our offense took a turn, and when their offense came back on, Lennox stopped their drive where it started with a huge interception! Our offense was called on again and on third down, our plan was to punt but a bit of a missed snap caused Mason to do some fast thinking and even faster running to get us a much needed first down! What some thought (including me) was a super fake by Tyson K., but in reality was a mis-cue, Mason was free to run right into the end zone – TOUCHDOWN RAIDERS!! (20-0 Raiders) The 2 point convert kick by Mason was once again – good! (22-0 Raiders) No question our defense was on a mission – TB stopped the running back, and a team effort stopped their quarterback in his tracks. An amazing completion to #5 made us very aware that they were not done! TB wrapped him up down field though, George sacked the quarterback, Paxton pulled down the quarterback as well and Andrew tackled their running back for no yards and defense – may we just say SUPER effort to turn the ball over on yards again. Offense went back to work, but when the drive didn’t progress as hoped we punted. Austin turned on the jets and recovered the punt and the offense stayed right where they were. A hard fought run by Mason with a few twists and turns and it was first down Raiders. Isaiah threw in a massive block and opened up a lane for another Raider 1st down!! Teg broke through the middle and got us right close to the end zone. Unfortunately we got tripped up and on came the defense. It was a team effort to pull down their #5 and Nathan, Keone, Paxton and Andrew powered through for another quarterback sack. George decided to fly in and get a QB sack of his own and the ball was turned over to us again. Mason, followed the block, escaped a tackle or two and literally flew into the end zone. (28-0 Raiders) The 2 point convert was GOOD. (30-0 Raiders) Never underestimating our opponents, defense stood strong to finish – a quarterback sack by Andrew and Nick and George wrapped up their runner for a shut out. Wow!!

What an amazing result!! Not because we expected it. Not because we tried to get it all at once… but because we put our heads down and we did our best on every single play!! We worked 100% from the first whistle till the last one. Congratulations Raiders on a regular season well done!! So, now it’s playoffs – and besides getting ourselves into a good position for the post-season – it’s a new beginning and what we’ve done to this point was just preparing us for NOW. We will have to work harder than we ever have before – and we don’t have to think about whether or not we’ll win or lose – we just have to think about working harder than anyone else out there. Believing in ourselves and never, EVER giving up!! WELL DONE!! GO RAIDERS GO!!

Raiders started the game with a kick by #50 Devan which was run out of bounds. 1st touchdown goes to the Falcons. Conversion stopped by #55 Gavin N. Kick off picked up by #5 Austin. 1st down run by #35 Noah. #66 Joshua passed to #5 Austin. Stepped out of bounds. Gained yards on the next play by #5 Austin. Raiders touchdown by #35 Noah. Conversion stopped. Great kick by #50 Devan. Tackle by #35 Noah and #50 Devon. Falcons run across the field for their second TD. No conversion. Kick picked up by #82 Boston. Run by #5 Austin for 1st down. Raiders TD by #5 Austin. Great team work! Conversion by #35 Noah. Half time 13-12. Kick return for a TD by #50 Devan. Good job Devan! #66 Joshua threw to #5 Austin who ran in it for the convert. Great tackle by #66 Joshua followed by another great team tackle by the defense. Tackle by #82 Boston. Tackle by #66 Joshua. Tackle by #13 Eric. Falcon TD. No conversion. Kick picked up by #5 Austin. Falcons TD. Conversion complete. Kick picked up by #50 Devan. Amazing fake out play for TD by #82 Boston! Conversion stopped. Great team tackles again in the second half. Way to go Raiders!! Final 26-25.

The very wet and muddy game started off with Damon receiving the kickoff. Our offence pulled off fake by Kean opening up for a pass from Gavin to Jerome, leaving Jerome ready to run in a touchdown, and the convert. Cazden starts the defense off with a good kick. Our defense works hard to keep the Mustangs scrambling, with a fumble by the Mustangs and Noah and Jerome working together to force the mustang offence out of bounds. Our offence comes back to the field, with a good pass from Gavin to Jerome who runs the ball to the end zone for our second touchdown, no convert. Even with a good kick by Treyton, and a some good blocking by Mikka and our defense, the Mustang offence makes it to the end zone for a touchdown, but our boys wouldn’t let them through for the convert. Our offence came back out with couple of fumbles, and recoveries by Damon and Jerome. As well as a couple of good runs by Kean and Jerome to finish out the first half. The second half started with Noah kicking. Our boys came out hitting with some great teamwork. Treyton and Cazden working together for tackle, and Damon and Mikka followed suit. A tackle by Mikka, followed by Noah and Cazden working together, forcing the Mustangs out of bounds. Asher and Mikka teamed up on a tackle, bringing our offence back on the field. Our offence came in with a fake by Kean,and some good runs by Asher and Jerome. A fumble recovered by Kean and a run by Jerome who just refused to go down. Our defense finished off the game with a couple of good tackles by Cazden, a tackle by Treyton. As well as a good team tackle by Noah and Damon followed by a huge tackle by Damon. One last tackle by Noah finished the game. Even cold, wet and muddy our boys played another amazing game. Way to go Raiders Teal!

Sundays game was played on home turf against the Portage la Prairie Pitbulls on a sunny afternoon with a slight wind coming from the south. The pre game showed that the Raiders had twenty players dressed against the Pitbulls seventeen .  The game started with the Raiders kicking the ball on the 45 yard line. The Pitbulls make a few first downs and took three minutes off the clock working the Raiders defense . The Raiders offence take the field on a turnover on downs at 9:02.  The offence trys a hand off and then a passing play which gains a few yards before turning the ball back to the Pitbulls.  The Pitbulls have a turn at three downs and turn the ball back over to the Raiders.  On the next two plays a few yards are gained and on third down the Pitbulls recover the ball. The Pitbulls take control of the ball and advantage of a Raiders off side penalty which earns them to score first (#47)with 3:29 left in the first quarter. The extra point attempt is no good as the Raiders defense hold them at the line. The Pitbulls kick the ball and #9 Thiessen jumps on the ball at the Raiders 50.  Next, a running play from #50 Esau to #9 Thiessen brings the Raiders to the Pitbulls 30 yard line. Excellent run by Thiessen! A few yards are gained by #22 Kraus and on third down the Pitbulls take down the QB and take the ball on turnover of downs deep in their own end. A minute is left in the first quarter as on the Pitbulls first possession #60 Neufeld makes a huge tackle on #91. On third down #21 Rickey makes a crushing tackle on Pitbulls #47 and it looks like the Raiders defense mean business. Turnover on downs and Raiders have 6 seconds to make one last play before the end of the first quarter.  An awsome play is made with #50 Esau throwing the ball to #38 Esau creating a first down. The second quarter starts with the Raiders in possession of the ball. Several running plays are made with #22 Kraus and #9 Thiessen moving the ball down the field.  The Raiders get on the scoreboard ay 10:02 with a great run by #22 Kraus.  #24 Avanthay tries a kick attempt but is just wide. Tie game. The Raiders try a short kick but the Pitbulls recover the ball quickly .  The next three plays show #16 Flaming destroying the Pitbulls offence with bone crushing hits on #47 and #91 this results in turnover on downs.  The next few Raiders plays cover ground with carries from #9 Thiessen ,#22 Kraus and #24 Avanthay . An incomplete throw attempt turns the ball over to the Pitbulls . The Raiders defense again delivers tackles by #16 Flaming and #21 Rickey . 4:00 remaining in the half and it’s Raiders ball on their own 50. On second down QB #9 Thiessen  runs the ball for a good 15 yards. The next play #22 Kraus runs the ball for a five yard gain. On second down #24 Avanthay gets the ball and makes a forty yard run for a touchdown. Raiders pull ahead by six points with just under two minutes remaining in the half. The Pitbulls take a minute off the clock as they make one first down. Defensive tackles by #16 Flaming and #21 Rickey . Raiders ball with thirty seconds to go in the half. A nice throw from #50 Esau to #9 Thiessen creates a first down. Next play Thiessen makes a nice fifteen yard run.

Second half starts with the Pitbulls kicking the ball, #60 Neufeld receives it and gains a few yards. The next offensive drive consists of three consecutive first downs. #24 Avanthay runs for twenty yards. A reverse from #24 Avanthay to #4 Friesen and a block by #9 Thiessen nets five yards. Then on second down the Raiders fumble the ball on the one yard line. So close .  With the ball deep in the Pitbulls own end they use three downs and the ball is turned back over to the Raiders . #16 Flaming once again credited with nice tackles. The next play the Raiders fumble the ball and the Pitbulls recover it in the end zone. The ball is placed the twenty yard line. The Pitbulls make a first down. A gain of a total seventeen yards is made before turning the ball over to the Raiders on the 37 yard line. Tackles made by #14 Volt #21 Rickey and a QB sac by #16 Flaming.  Five minutes to go in the quarter and the ball is moved ahead by #9 Thiessen. Next play the ball is carried 37 yards by #24 Avanthay for a Raiders touchdown . Extra point is no good. Raiders try a short kick but #16 of the Pitbulls makes a good run to the five yard line. The Pitbulls push the ball ahead for a touchdown by #47. The extra point is no good. 3:46 remaining in the quarter .Score is 18-12 Raiders . The kick after the TD is returned by #16 Flaming for a gain of twelve yards. The Raiders make several attempts but not enough to hold onto the ball. Turnover on downs and the Pitbulls end the quarter with the ball. The forth quarter starts with a long run by #47 of the Pitbulls who scores with a touchdown . Extra point is run in by #48. The Pitbulls take the lead at 11:22 in the forth quarter .  The Raiders use three downs for a gain of five yards and turn the ball over on downs.  The Raiders defense holds the Pitbulls offence for two downs with tackles from #2 Magonya and #14 Vogt .  On third down Pitbulls move the ball down field which ends up in the end zone by #91. Extra point is no good. 18-25 Pitbulls at 8:14 left in the game . Raiders ball after the kick as #4 Friesen covers the ball . A gain of four yards is made by #22 Kraus .  Second down is a carry from #50 Esau to #9 Thiessen for a huge 50 yard run into the end zone. Touchdown Raiders ! #22 Kraus runs it in for the extra point. and it’s a tie game with just over seven minutes left. Raiders kick the ball and Pitbulls make short work of there possession and run it for a touchdown on there first down. (#91) Extra point is no good .  Raiders control the ball after the kick with a nice run by #9 Thiessen and #22 Kraus. with five minutes remaining the ball is turned over on downs.  Pitbulls make another touchdown #47 with a 55 yard run. #91 runs the ball in for the extra point. The Raiders make several throwing attempts to try to move the ball down field. Catches made by #9 Thiessen and runs by #24 Avanthay and #22 Kraus. With 30 seconds left the ball is turned over on downs to the Pitbulls. Final score 25-38. Although the Raiders lost, the game was a battle back and forth with great sportsmanship coming from both teams. Several people commented on the excitement and level of play that was demonstrated by these players. A big thumbs up to our coaching staff,volunteers, and fans who make this possible.

First Half
It was a beautiful fall day and the Fort Garry Lions opened the scoring when they completed a field goal attempt on their 3^rd down at the Raiders 23 yard line. Now the Raiders took possession at their 35 yard line but were unable to complete the first down.  The Lions took possession at the Raiders 49 yard line, but the Raiders defense held the Lions and forced a 3^rd down punt that went out of bounds at the Raiders 25 yard line.  The Raiders offense were able to catch the Lions by surprise when Jack Lenchyshyn (#32) was able to run the ball 85 yards for the first TD of the game.  The Raiders convert was good and now they lead the game 8 to 3. Now the Lions were able to return the kick-off to the 55 yard line.  The Raiders defense fought hard and Dakota Funk (#34) made a huge QB sack for a loss of 8 yards.  The defense held the Lions and forced a 3^rd down punt and the Raiders took possession at the Lions 54 yard line.  The Raiders offense moved the ball, but were unable to gain the 1^st down.  Now the Lions took possession at the Lions 48 yard line and completed 2 passing plays along with a running play to get their 1st TD of the game.  The Lions were able to complete the convert and the Lions were winning the game by a score of 11 to 8. The Lions had a good kick-off return and the Raiders took possession at the Raiders 24 yard line.  The Raiders changed things up a bit when Austin Buhler (#12) completed a 25 yard pass to William Cruise (#31) who then ran 75 yards for the Raiders 2^nd TD of the game.  The Raiders were unable to convert but regained the lead by a score of 14 to 11. Now the Raiders tried a short kick-off return but the Lions were able to maintain possession at the 55 yard line.  The Raiders defense came out strong and executed a great QB sack for a loss of 4 yards.  In the next play the Raiders Kyle Giesbrecht-Martens (#39) intercepted the ball and the Raiders took possession at the Raiders 48 yard line.  Now the Raiders were able to complete a series of first downs to move the ball all the way for their 3^rd TD of the game.  The Raiders were able to convert and doubled up the Lions by a score of 22 to 11. The Lions returned the Raiders kick-off to the Raiders 42 yard line.  The Raiders defense again played hard and forced the Lions to a 3^rddown punt.  The Defense were able to return the punt all the way back to the Lions 16 yard line.  A great effort!  The Raiders offense were able to capitalize on the field position and ran the ball to gain another first down.  Then the Raiders Austin Buhler (#12) executed a QB sneak and ran the ball in for the Raiders 4^th TD of the game.  The Raiders again were unable to convert, but now the score was 28 to 11. The Lions returned the Raiders kick-off to the 54 yard line, but took a 22 yard loss on their attempt to move the ball downfield.  Now the Raiders took possession at the Lions 32 yard line.  The Raiders offense again were able to move the ball downfield through a series of running plays.  The Raiders William Cruise (#31) was able to complete the final running play to score the Raiders 5^th TD of the game.  This time the Raiders were able to complete the convert and now lead the score by 36 to 11. The Lions tried to move the ball but again were unable to complete and the Raiders took possession of the ball and that was the end of the first half.

Second Half
The Raiders returned the Lions kick-off to the 55 yard line. The Raiders completed 2 first downs but turned over the ball due to yards not gained at the Lions 40 yard line. Now it was the Lions turn to move the ball, but they were also unable to gain a 1^st down and the Raiders gained possession at the Lions 46 yard line. At was at this point in the game that both teams pushed hard and forced each team to turn over the ball a number of times due to yards not gained. The game stayed deadlocked until Cyrus O’Connor (#66) recovered the ball on a Lions bad snap at the Lions 41 yard line.  The Raiders continued to move the ball on the next play when William Cruise (#31) ran the ball 20 yards in conjunction with a 15 yard penalty against the Lions to put the Raiders within 1^st and goal.  Austin Buhler (#12) then executed a QB sneak and scored the Raiders 6^th TD of the game.  The Raiders were unable to convert but now the score was 42 to 11. Now the Lions did not give up and were able to return the ball to the Raiders 46 yard line.  The Lions pushed hard and completed a series of passing plays to score their 2^nd  TD of the game.  Their conversion was good and now the score was 42 to 19. The Raiders returned the Lions kick-off to the Raiders 30 yard line.  The Raiders offense then proceeded to complete a running play to William Cruise (#31) who ran the ball all the way to the Lions end zone for the Raiders 7^th TD of the game.  The Raiders were able to convert and now lead the game by a score of 50 to 19. The Raiders again tried a short kick-off but again the Lions were able to maintain possession at the Raiders 53. The Lions tried to complete a passing play, but Dustin Erickson (#54) intercepted the ball and ran downfield. The Raiders took possession at the Lions 19 yard line. The Raiders were unable to gain a first down and executed a 3^rd down punt but again gained possession on a Lions fumble.  Now the Raiders offense were unable to complete a first down and now the Lions took possession at their 25 yard line. The Lions were unable to gain yards on their first attempt and that was the end of the game. The Raiders win 50 to 19.  What a great game by the boys!!!