The Manchester Freedom traveled to Somerville Massachusetts to face the Boston Militia in Independent Woman's Football League action Saturday evening. Manchester, a Tier 2 team elevated a division class on its schedule to play Boston, a Tier 1 team.
Tiers are based on roster size. Manchester dressed 25 players, Boston dressed 46 players. Manchester received the opening kick off, and began a 9 minute 60 yard drive that ended with a missed field goal.
That would prove to be the most effective drive Manchester had for the night. The Boston offense scored two touchdowns in the first quarter, one of which was a 60 yard touchdown pass. Manchester scored its only touchdown of the day late in the second quarter when quarterback Lauri Izzi connected with Jamie Naylor for a 54 yard touchdown pass. The first half ended Boston 24 Manchester 7.
The Manchester defense played strong all day. Christine Halloran who was recovering from a concussion suffered in practice, led the Manchester defense with 6 tackles. Jen Pirog added 5 tackles, while Nesa Packert, Katia Pashkevitch and Darren Hood-Tucker each had 4 tackles.
The Manchester ground game was led by Katia Pashkevitch who had 60 yards on 22 tough carries. Manchester quarterback Lauri Izzi completed 5 of 14 passes for 80 yards, and one touchdown. For the game, Manchester had 221 total yards.
The Freedom pride was evident throughout the game, as they fought hard and competed until the last whistle. Unfortunately, Boston's passing game, speed at the running back position and the ability to substitute fresh players, proved to be too much for Manchester to overcome. During the post game meeting the coaching staff told the players that they were proud of the effort, and that tough games like this is what builds champions.
Manchester faces another Tier 1 opponent this Saturday June 7th, as they host the Baltimore Nighthawks at Manchester West High School. Kick off is at 4 PM. Tickets are $5.00 at the gate.
-Written by Statistician Rich Parkinson
