ONT (Niagara): Patriots colonize nature’s fury

The 0-2 Blessed Trinity Thunder went into Week 3 set for their home opener against 1-0 St.Paul Patriots.

Despite being down 10-7 in the fourth quarter, the Thunder would see that closeness disappear at the hands of the Patriots who went on to win 24-7.

After a touchdown in the first quarter and a field goal in the third quarter, the Patriots took a 10-0 lead heading into the fourth quarter.

However, their lead was not totally safe.  Thunder running back Austin Whetton scored a rushing touchdown to put the team within three points of the Patriots.

The Patriots were determined to win and they showed it on a third down play that resulted in a 40 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Wryan Helmeczi to defensive tackle Tyler Macleod to give the team a 17-7 lead halfway through the fourth quarter.

On the following kickoff, Whetton would fumble the return at the Thunder’s 25 yard line. The Patriots took quick advantage of the Thunder’s error on the next play as Colin O’Connor scored a 25 yard touchdown.

With this win, the Patriots improved to 2-0 on the season.

As for the Thunder, this loss marked the team’s third straight in as many games. Head Coach Joe Pagnotta is not overly worried by the team’s poor start.

“At this point, the team continues to improve on their mistakes,” said Pagnotta.  “As long as the boys are committed to making adjustments, I’m not overly worried.”

The Thunder will face Notre Dame Fighting Irish at home in Week 4 action for the second time this season. In their previous meeting, the Thunder not only lost 35-4 but also lost starting quarterback Noah Lane, who has since returned from the injury.

“We’ll have to stay healthy in order to beat Notre Dame,” said defensive coordinator Mark Antonelli.