Recap vs. Chattanooga Locomotion – July 8, 2006

Recap vs. Chattanooga Locomotion – July 8, 2006

D.C. Divas Derail Locomotion, 40-0
DC 40, Chattanooga 0
By Rich Daniel

Recap • Statistics

Landover, MD – The D.C. Divas weren’t about to let the Chattanooga Locomotion keep them out of their third straight conference championship game. The D.C. Divas’ run at an undefeated season and a national championship will continue after a thorough 40-0 whitewash of the visiting Locomotion.

The Divas (9-0) got on the board quickly, scoring a touchdown on their first possession of the game and never looking back. Quarterback Allyson Hamlin was poised and polished, completing eight of 12 passes for 152 yards and two touchdowns. Hamlin, the offensive MVP, also added a rushing touchdown. “People think my job is tough, but really, it’s not,” said Hamlin. “We just have so many weapons, I can really take my pick out there.”

The top-seeded Divas looked rested and recharged following a first-round bye week, and several players gave standout performances. NWFA all-star wide receiver Nikki Williams caught three passes for 61 yards and a touchdown, while Lilah Blackstone contributed two touchdowns, including an electrifying 74-yard punt return for a score.

The Locomotion (6-3) were held to just 97 total yards of offense, as the Divas were once again inspired by their swarming and tenacious defense. Led by linebacker Ivy Tillman, the game’s defensive MVP, the Divas posted their eighth straight shutout of the season and forced four Chattanooga takeaways – three fumble recoveries and an interception. Defensive back Kathryn Hemlock capped a superlative defensive performance with a 71-yard interception return for a touchdown.

The Divas will host the Columbus Comets in the Northern Conference championship game on July 22 at the Prince George’s Sports Complex. Tickets for the Divas’ playoff game will go on sale beginning Monday, July 10.