Bellingham squared off against their
long time nemesis the Tacoma Cobras Saturday, May 12
th at
Civic Field. The Cobras got the best of the former Blitz team in
back-to-back Professional Developmental Football League championship
games in 2009 and 2010. Tacoma would prove to be this united
Bellingham team's greatest challenge to date.
The Bulldogs' offense stumbled out of
the gates causing them to punt twice, giving the Cobras a short field
and leading to two quick strikes for touchdowns. Bellingham's defense
could not find an answer for the Cobras' offense as a combination of
running and passing attacks put Tacoma up by four touchdowns.
Tacoma's defense kept the pressure up blanking the Bulldogs' offense
through the first half. A blocked punt and recovery by Bulldogs'
cornerback Chris Johnson scored their first touchdown of the night.
Bellingham's defense came out at the
second half swinging, forcing the Cobras' offense to give up the ball
at mid-field. The Bulldog's offense took advantage, driving the ball
down for a touchdown and a two-point conversion. Bellingham's defense
continued to torment Tacoma's offense. Lead by defensive end Chase
Cantrell, the Bulldogs' defense forced two fumble recoveries, but the Bulldogs'
offense failed to capitalize with scores.
A late rally by Bellingham put Tacoma
on their heals as the Bulldogs' defense kept pushing the Cobras all
over the field. The comeback was well established when quarterback
Cody Oakes connected with wide receivers Jesse Dellinger and Douglas
Miller for touchdowns to tie the game at 28-28 with 5:27 left in the
fourth quarter. After a blocked Cobras' field goal attempt the
Bulldogs had all of the momentum, but a fumble recovery lead to a
quick one-yard run for a Cobras' touchdown. Oakes tried one last time
but an interception spoiled the comeback as Tacoma continued their
winning ways over Bellingham. Final score: 28-35. Click here to
view photos of the game.
