Intramural Football: 72nd MSS rallies to defeat 964th AACS 14-10 in playoffs

Published Nov. 15, 2007
By John E. Banks
Tinker Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- The 2007 Tinker flag football playoffs returned to action as the 72nd Mission Support Squadron rallied to defeat the 964th Airborne Air Control Squadron 14-10 Nov. 6 at the Tinker Sports Complex.
   Both teams exchanged possessions in the first quarter with neither side gaining an advantage. The cold temperatures seemed to play a role until each side was warmed up and ready to play.
   The 964th AACS, led by quarterback Christopher Brooks, marched down the field in the second quarter with precision and accuracy. Brooks completed six of seven passes for 40 yards and rushed three times for an additional 15 yards. However, the drive stalled and the 964th AACS was forced to attempt a 41-yard field goal. Place kicker Eric Reynosa drilled the ball through the uprights, giving his side a 3-0 lead.
   The 964th AACS capitalized on its opening drive of the second half. Brooks led the way with six consecutive completed passes, culminating in a 25-yard strike to receiver Christian Snow. After the extra point, the 964th AACS had a commanding 10-0 lead.
   "This is great," said Rob Montgomery, 964th AACS defensive back. "Our captain comes out of retirement on the field and quickly scores a touchdown."
   At the start of the fourth quarter, the 72nd MSS offense took the field and was ready to get back into the game. Quarterback Randy Schell delivered an 80-yard touchdown strike to Mario Cruz, who raced past the defenders putting his team on the board.
   After the 72nd MSS defense stopped the 964th AACS on three consecutive plays, the 72nd MSS offense was ready to seize victory.
   It took only one play. Schell connected with wide receiver Christopher Webb on a 40-yard scoring strike, giving the 72nd MSS a 14-10 lead with 2 minutes remaining in the contest.
   The 72nd MSS defense stood strong and thwarted a last chance drive by the 964th AACS.
   "This was a total team win," Schell said. "We had to dig deep and take advantage of our opportunities. The result was a hard fought victory over a very talented team." Schell, who completed 11 of 19 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns, was the most outstanding player for the 72nd MSS. Brooks, who completed 14 of 22 passes for 176 yards and one touchdown, led the way for the 964th AACS. He also rushed four times for 55 yards in the loss.
   With the victory, the 72nd MSS team continues in the elimination bracket of the playoffs. The loss eliminates the 964th AACS from playoff contention.