The Valley Huskers stormed back from a 18-point halftime deficit to defeat the Vancouver Island Raiders 33-31 in the team’s opening game of the BCFC season.
The Huskers scored three touchdowns in the final quarter to secure the win before a roaring hometown crowd at Exhibition Field Sunday.
The team’s defence, meanwhile, held the Raiders to just 47 yards in total offence in the second half.
After striking first with an early field goal, the Raiders found the endzone three times in the second quarter to go up 24-3 at the half.
But the Huskers weren’t about to rollover.
After the two teams traded TDs in the third, the Huskers pulled away for the 33-31 win.
It was an impressive debut for the 2018 Huskers. The team amassed 433 yards in total offence during the game, with quarterback Julian Wytinck passing for 310 yards.
On the ground, Keegan Vicklund carried for 81 yards, while Von Richardson had the longest run of the day, breaking through for a 21-yard gain.
Defence, too, was rock solid, surrendering only 187 yards on the day, while picking off three interceptions.
The last was key. With just seconds on the clock, the Raiders tried to go deep. A completion would have allowed the Raiders to score, or at least chip in a field goal for the win.
But Desmond Jeanson had other plans. He electrified the crowd with an interception that killed the threat and secured the Husker’s first win in several seasons.
The Huskers are home again this Saturday, facing the Langley Rams Aug. 11 at 7 p.m. at Exhibition Stadium.
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