Raiders defeat city rival, I.E. Fire
Thursday 13th of April, 2006
The "Battle For The Empire" saw the Raiders jump ahead early in the first quarter. Led by strong play through the middle of the ground, 951 pushed the ball deep in their offensive zone. Veteran players Chris Olson and Deron Lien spearheaded the attack, as the Raiders would kick 5 goals and 3 behinds in the quarter. Stunned at first, the Fire quickly recovered and were able to make a small run of their own kicking 3 goals and 1 behind.
The second quarter would see a reversal of fortune, as the Fire were now the team charging out of the gate. Matthew "Mad Dog" Morgan would lead the team, with help from Darrin "Dazza" Olsen and Beau Fournier, who did an excellent job moving from the backline to the forwards. The Fire were able to kick 4 goals and 1 behind to the Raiders 1 goal, 3 behinds. This second quarter push would be enough to give IE a slight lead heading into the half as the Fire sat at 7 goals, 4 behinds (Total 46) compared to 951's 6 goals, 6 behinds (total 42).
As the third quarter kicked off both teams knew they were in a dogfight. This became evident on the field, as the intensity of the game seemed to really increase. Both teams would see some of their younger players stepping up, with Allen "Joe" Frazier kicking key goals for the Raiders, while Tim "Frenchy" Legere and Mike Sheldon worked hard on the IE side. 951 would regain the lead in the third, kicking 3 goals, 4 behinds, to IE's 1 goals, 1 behind.
The fourth quarter would start with a mere 9 points separating the two teams. Every player on the field had a sense of urgency about them, knowing any bounce of the ball could result in a key play. While the Fire were able to grab the lead back from 951, the Raiders' experience would prove to be the difference maker. Chris Olson and Deron Lien would continue their hard kicking attacks, wearing down the Fire defense. When all was said and done, the Raiders emerged with the victory.

951: 15 Goals, 12 Behinds- Total 102
IE: 11 Goals, 9 Behinds- Total 75

951 Goals Scorers: Chris Olson (7), Allen "Joe" Frazier (4), Deron Lien (4)

951 Best on Ground: Chris Olson
Others receiving votes: Deron Lien, Allen "Joe" Frazier

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