The Trident were defeated by Rajwadi 29-3 in a decisive elimination game during Week 4 of the Ultimate Showdown playoff stage on January 24, 2100. Despite solid defensive efforts, the Trident struggled to generate offense and could not match Rajwadi’s scoring pace.
Rajwadi opened scoring in the first quarter with a strong 5-yard touchdown run by Ramon Medlin, giving them a 6-0 lead. However, the extra point attempt by Bill Jones was missed wide right. The Trident responded late in the quarter with a 28-yard field goal from Carlos Mills, trimming the deficit to 6-3.
Rajwadi extended their lead in the second quarter with three field goals by Bill Jones from distances of 34, 48, and 46 yards. Between those kicks, Tyrone Smith connected with Richard Boren for a 57-yard touchdown reception, pushing Rajwadi ahead 19-3 after Jones converted the extra point.
The Trident offense had limited success throughout the game, finishing with 111 passing yards on 17 completions in 25 attempts from quarterback Glen Simonson. Simonson also had two interceptions, which hampered scoring opportunities. On the ground, the Trident managed 127 rushing yards but failed to find the end zone.
Defensively, the Trident recorded two interceptions and two sacks, both by Paul Barkley. However, Rajwadi’s balanced attack and efficient kicking kept the pressure on Vancouver. Rajwadi’s running game was particularly effective, tallying 205 rushing yards with contributions from Anthony Mack (92 yards and one receiving touchdown) and Ramon Medlin (87 rushing yards and one receiving touchdown).
Key turnovers impacted Vancouver’s momentum. In the second quarter, Simonson's pass was intercepted by Jeremy McDermott, who returned it nine yards. Additionally, late in the third quarter, Ernest Mtawali fumbled after an 11-yard run, with McDermott recovering the ball. McDermott also forced a fumble and made several important plays for Rajwadi’s defense.
The Trident's special teams recorded a single successful field goal; Carlos Mills was 1 for 1 on field goals. In contrast, Bill Jones efficiently converted 3 of 3 field goal attempts, contributing significantly to Rajwadi's scoring.
Both teams showed strong defensive play with no third-down conversions recorded by either side. The Trident were penalized seven times for 62 yards, which further stalled their drives.
With this loss, the Trident are eliminated from the Ultimate Showdown playoff with Rajwadi advancing. Head Coach Emery Reed will look to regroup after a game where offensive production was insufficient against a balanced and well-executed Rajwadi attack led by coach Jordan Noel.
Rajwadi Defeats Trident 29-3 in Ultimate Showdown Elimination
Terrence Davis
· Vancouver Chronicle
· 1/24/2100