Defense powers Kent Predators to Indoor Football League win against Fairbanks

Published 10:33 am Monday, May 17, 2010

The defense scored three touchdowns to help lead the Kent Predators to a 42-26 win over the Fairbanks Grizzlies in a professional Indoor Football League game May 14 at the ShoWare Center.

The Predators ended a three-game losing streak, improved to 4-6 and moved into third place in the five-team Pacific North Division. Second-place Fairbanks dropped to 5-4.

Kent defensive lineman John Fields recovered a fumble and returned it for a touchdown and also blocked a field-goal attempt that enabled teammate Frank Connell to recover the ball for another score.

Defensive lineman Manase Hopoi set up Kent’s first score when he sacked quarterback Justin Rummell to force a fumble that lineman CJ Niusulu recovered for a touchdown.

Dan Kleckner kicked three field goals for the Predators and Dre’ Mail Hardin returned a missed field goal 53 yards for a touchdown.

Kent quarterback Charles McCullum completed 4 of 13 passes for 39 yards with no touchdowns. McCullum rushed seven times for 11 yards and one touchdown.

The Predators led 28-23 at halftime and 28-26 after three quarters.

Kent does not play this week. The Predators play the Billings Outlaws at 7:30 p.m. May 29 at the ShoWare Center. The Outlaws lead the division with an 8-1 record.

For tickets, go to www.showarecenter.com.