Big-play ‘D’ defends new turf

PURDY — In the squad’s home opener, the West Sound Saints offense struck faster than a lightning bolt while the defense made as much noise as thunder.

But when it came down to it, a little luck ended the Saints’ 14-11 victory in nail-biting fashion at Peninsula High School June 18.

With just seven seconds remaining, Oregon Thunderbolts kicker Brent Wismer had a shot to send it into overtime, but his kick sailed wide left to secure the Saints’ second win of the season.

Saints coach Steve McDaniel summed up the sentiment of the team while talking to his players after the win.

“We are going into our third game with the same respect of anyone else,” McDaniel said. “Undefeated.”

The Saints set the pace early when running back Malachai DeWalt hit receiver Ledurial Wells on a halfback option pass for 55 yards on the Saints first play from scrimmage. Three plays later, quarterback Marvin Bronson was able to hit Justin Kelly for an 11-yard touchdown strike.

“It’s nice to set the tone that early,” McDaniel said.

DeWalt showed all-around athleticism against Oregon, emphasizing his bruising running style with a 32-yard TD scamper that involved going through four Thunderbolts defenders in the early goings of the second quarter. The play was the first of the drive, set up by Deandre Hickson’s interception of Oregon quarterback Matt Davidow.

“I’m really proud of these guys,” he said. “They’ve got so much poise now. So much discipline.”

But as usual, the defense held down the fort, recording five sacks and two interceptions on Davidow. Defensive end Jackie Tripplett recorded two solo sacks while linebacker Eddie Llamas had a sack and a blocked field goal.

“We’ve always had good defense,” McDaniel said. “You can’t get better than that.”

The T’bolts stormed back in the second half, with Davidow

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