Chaos knock out defending champs
By HEATHER VAN
HOEGARDEN
Last week, Cavanaugh sported shirts that read, "Leave no doubt." However, many did doubt the Chaos until the end.
In a game that featured big plays, the biggest play came at the end of the game by Cavanaugh quarterback Meg Meyers. However, she wasn't on offense.
After leading Cavanaugh on two consecutive scoring drives, Meyers intercepted a pass as a defensive back to preserve Cavanaugh's 13-12 win over defending champion Welsh Family.
Welsh Family looked to have control over the game early, as talented quarterback Lauren Hoeck completed 70-yard touchdown bomb to wide receiver Bethany Barker. The extra point pass attempt, however, was ruled out of bounds and incomplete.
The high-octane offense of Welsh Family did not stop, as Vanessa Lichon caught a 20-yard Hoeck pass for another touchdown.
Meanwhile, the Chaos option offense struggled through the first half. Finally, they put together a touchdown drive that included two key fourth-and-five conversions, and two great catches by Nancy Powaga, one for the touchdown. Although the extra point failed, the mid-game adjustment to a passing game benefited Cavanaugh.
"When we switched our offensive focus from the option to a passing-oriented game, it really opened things up, and we were able to be successful," Powaga said.
The Chaos did not stop there. Instead, they got the ball back after a huge defensive stand, and proceeded to march up the field again. This time, Meyers hit standout receiver Jenny Nokes for the touchdown. Down one, Cavanaugh was successful on the conversion with 40 seconds remaining.
Meyers intercepted fellow quarterback Hoeck on the next play, ending the game.
Cavanaugh continued their unbeaten season, as they dethroned Welsh Family, dishing them only their third loss in four years.
"We knew that we had to play one of the best games of our lives to beat them," Powaga said. "People thought that this game was over, but it wasn't. We had 1,000 times more heart than they did."
All Sports Stories for Tuesday, November 12, 2002
