By team president and player Catherine B. Vivo 

Downey, CA – Sitting on top of the division after a big win in the previous week, the California Quake welcomed the Tucson Monsoon back the field for the second meeting of the season. The first game saw the Monsoon take an early lead only to watch the Quake sustain drives all game and pull away with a victory. This game would be much different as both teams were depleted because of injuries. The battle with the Showgirlz left California with three less players. Injured and unable to play against the Monsoon were #5 Monique Zaky, #24 Michelle Friesen and #50 Katie Galvin. The rest of the team would step up and deliver a message to their fallen teammates. The 37-0 victory was dedicated to those watching from the sideline.

With the #1 offensive threat out of the line-up, the Quake had multiple players step up and fill in; #13 Irene Kim, #15 Melanie Pettway and #40 Kristin Nicholas handled the carries for the game and did themselves and the team proud racking up 129 yards on only 26 carries between them. The running game has proven it is a force to be reckoned with. Much of this success can be attributed to the offensive line of #77 Elizabeth Lin, #67 Camille Ramirez, #97 Janine Avant, #17 Helen Monterroso (first time starter on the O-line) and #78 Sandy Chavez.

Not be outdone, the defense got its’ third shutout of the season and for the 4th game in a row put points on the board. Early in the 1st Quarter, Tucson attempted a FG but had it blocked by #80 Esther McGee and #14 Armida Luna ran it back 83 yards by for a Quake TD. For the game, the defense only allowed a total of 133 yards and consistently gave the offense great starting field position thanks to some great punt returns by #88 Alex Kirby.

Special teams had its’ share of highlights too as #81 Sarah Oliver added another FG to her resume, this one from 38 yards and consistently put the ball inside the 20 on kickoffs.

Here are some of the statistical highlights from the game:

Offense
– #13 Irene Kim – 11 rushes – 62 yards – 1 reception 43 yards – 2 TD’s
– #3 Deb Kuntz – 5 of 12 passing – 80 yards – 1 TD
– #40 Kristin Nicholas – 10 rushes – 36 yards – 2 TD’s

Defense
– #80 Esther McGee – 6 tackles, Blocked FG
– #52 Nancy MacLeod – 6 tackles
– #28 Anna DeLeon – 1 tackle for loss, INT
– #44 Angela Mims – 4 tackles
– #14 Armida Luna – 1 tackle, 83-yd Blocked FG returned for TD

The division leading California Quake (5-0) looks to lock up the division championship on the 24th against the visiting Las Vegas Showgirlz. The first meeting between these two teams went down to the wire with the Quake winning 30-27, don’t miss the rematch. Come out and support your UNDEFEATED California Quake!