Trainor throws two touchdown passes, Lusain adds 80-yard punt return in 24-6 win
LAS VEGAS, NV – The San Diego Rebellion traveled to the desert and returned with a 24-6 victory over the Las Vegas Silver Stars (0-3), starting the season 3-0 for the third straight year.
The Rebellion needed less than six minutes to find the end zone – and they did it without their offense even taking the field.
After the Silver Stars opened the game with a three-and-out, Brittani Lusain fielded a punt at her own 20-yard line, found a seam, and raced 80 yards for a touchdown, strong-arming defenders in the process. Jocelyn Charette's extra point made it 7-0 with 9:18 remaining in the first quarter.
Las Vegas punted again on their next possession, giving San Diego the ball at their own 25-yard line. This time, the offense joined the party.
Daniella Trainor connected with Taranisha Taylor for an eight-yard touchdown pass with 47 seconds left in the first quarter, capping a quick drive and pushing the lead to 14.
The Rebellion added to their lead early in the second quarter.
Trainor launched a 45-yard strike to Alicia Zappia-Neeley, who hauled it in for a touchdown. The extra point made it 21-0 with 1:51 remaining before halftime.
Las Vegas showed some fight in the second half.
Midway through the third quarter, Silver Stars quarterback Thaycha Rodriguez connected with Isabel Warren on a 21-yard touchdown pass. The two-point conversion attempt failed, leaving the score at 21-6 with 8:07 remaining in the third.
Later in the quarter, San Diego's offense then marched down the field to set up a 44-yard field goal from Charette. The kick split the uprights with 2:37 left in the third quarter, pushing the lead to 24-6.
The Rebellion will have a bye next week before returning home to host the Golden State Storm on Saturday, April 25th.
SCORING SUMMARY
1st Q (9:18) – SD: Brittani Lusain 80-yard punt return TD (XP Good) – 7-0 SD
1st Q (0:47) – SD: Daniella Trainor 8-yard TD pass to Taranisha Taylor (XP Good) – 14-0 SD
2nd Q (1:51) – SD: Trainor 45-yard TD pass to Alicia Zappia-Neeley (XP Good) – 21-0 SD
3rd Q (8:07) – LV: Thaycha Rodriguez 21-yard TD pass to Isabel Warren (2pt No Good) – 21-6 SD
3rd Q (2:37) – SD: Jocelyn Charette 44-yard FG – 24-6 SD
