Lions in Comeback Win over Bombers

Saturday, September 30th, 2006

 
The Chicago Lions rallied from a 10 point second half deficit to defeat the visiting St. Louis Bombers 38-32 in a fall clash between Super League rivals. The two sides combined for 10 tries while playing attacking rugby for the full 80 minutes.

Chicago jumped in front with tries from #8 Dave Newlin and center Austin Britts. St. Louis responded with a try by #8 Josh Rainey from a well executed lineout move, followed by fullback Conail Boyd's penalty kick. Vinnie Starapoli scored to push the Lions further ahead, but the Bombers replied with tries from center Joe Mertz and Boyd to take a 7 point lead at the break.

Constant pressure from the Lions in the second half resulted in tries for center Scott Peterson and wings John Coughlin and Nate Ellis. The Bombers applied pressure of their own, but the Lions defense was solid throughout the half, only surrendering 3 Boyd penalty kicks. Bomber flyhalf Brian Meyer orchestrated several line breaks, but the Lions scrambling defense held tight for the hard-fought victory.

Chicago Lion Vinnie Starapoli played an outstanding match, while Bomber Conail Boyd contributed 23 points for St. Louis on the day.

Chicago and St. Louis will meet again in early March for their annual pre-season match to prepare for the 2007 Super League season.