MDG finishes strong for opening day win

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Bryan Crane
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  The 509th Force Support Squadron squared off against the 509th Medical Group to kick off the 2012 Whiteman Intramural Flag Football League Sept. 10. After a slow start to the game, the MDG came on strong to finish with a 12-0 victory.

The first half began with the MDG getting the ball and they moved it down field well after a long completion. Right when the offense looked strong, the MDG turned the ball over on downs after a string of penalties.

After missing a pass deep down the sideline, the FSS went right back to it and completed a 30-yard pass. However, FSS failed to move the ball further and decided to punt.

MDG quarterback Jerome Whitfield, then broke loose for a long run across midfield to pull them within striking distance just before half. Pressed to get points on the board, Whitfield threw the only interception of the game. The first half ended with neither team gaining a competitive advantage and the score 0-0.

After a penalty filled first half, the beginning of second half was lead by two determined defenses. Drive after drive stalled as both teams showed dominating defenses.

Finally, late in the second half, the MDG put together a drive that brought them inside five yards of the end-zone. After a few failed attempts at the end-zone, the MDG went for it on fourth down and scored as the running back reached the goal-line just before his flag was pulled.

With time quickly running out FSS tried pressing the ball downfield but failed. With a 7-0 lead, MDG had possession again and a chance to close out the game.

Taking advantage of the momentum being on their side, the MDG completed a short pass over the middle; FSS seemed to have it covered only to see the receiver break through for the game clinching touchdown, giving MDG a 12-0 shutout win.

"We looked good during practice," said Jerome Whitfield, 509th MDG team quarterback. "We went out and had fun, followed what we did in practice and it payed off with a victory."

With one win under their belts, MDG has high hopes and playoff aspirations.

"We're looking forward to more wins," Whitfield added. "We are young and fast, so as long as we play as a team and we have our support in the stands we can win any game."