The St. Louis SLAM’s final push for positioning in the upcoming Women’s Football Alliance (WFA) post-season takes place this weekend on home turf against a cross-state rival.
Photo Credit: Mick Lite Photography
St. Louis (3-2) battles the Kansas City Titans (4-1) Saturday at Lindenwood University’s Belleville campus (2600 West Main, Belleville, IL). Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
The SLAM is currently ranked second in the WFA’s Tier II hierarchy thanks to back-to-back wins over Indy Crash (35-18) and Derby City Dynamite (23-6) and looks for a strong showing against the opponent that is classified as WFA Tier I.
“Heading into Saturday, we are focused on beating Kansas City,” said SLAM defensive specialist Tiffany Pugh. “It is important for us to take one game at a time. That being said, we also realize how important a win versus KC is as we gear up for a playoff run. A solid win will give us the momentum we need heading into playoffs.”
Photo Credit: Mick Lite Photography
The SLAM brings a full line-up to the clash with the Titans. St. Louis quarterback Jamie Gaal has 13 touchdown passes on the season and receiver Keyonna Smith has five end zone grabs. Veteran Kaylee Knuetzling is also a focal point with four TD receptions while rushing will be paced by Taylor Hay and Raven Williams.
The SLAM’s defense will be anchored by Pugh, Williams, Knuetzling, Jelani Kelly, Brooklyn Bastain, Chelsey Clay and a host of others.
In the two teams’ prior head-to-head battle on April 9, Kansas City posted a 36-23 home victory that was decided deep. Pugh reflected on the setback and knows what the team needs to do to Saturday for the regular season split.
Photo Credit: Mick Lite Photography
“Looking back to the first game, it is important for all eleven people on the field to work together, give maximum effort and play at a high intensity,” she said. “KC is a good team and they will make plays on both sides of the ball. It is important that we don’t get discouraged if they make a play. Refocusing and the ability to move into the next play are crucial.”
The visiting Titans’ offense is propelled by veteran quarterback Katie Sowers while running back Morgan Raukar and rusher/receiver Liz Sowers augments the scoring. Its defense is anchored by veterans Lanie Ford, Cadena Brim and Kristina Bates.
A strong local, and vocal, crowd at Lindenwood-Belleville will help the SLAM’s Saturday turf tussle.
Photo Credit: Mick Lite Photography
“Having a good fan turnout this weekend will definitely be a contributing factor to our success,” Pugh said. “Historically, games between us and the Titans are decided by a touchdown or less. Fan support can definitely help give us the edge. Our fans are always very supportive and we appreciate them.”
General admission tickets at the door are $13. The event is also promoted as “Breast Cancer Awareness Night,” where one can get a game ticket, a team t-shirt, involvement in a special halftime ceremony and a donation made to the team-supported Breakfast Club Inc. by going to THIS LINK.
For more information on SLAM Football, go to stlslam.com.
Arch City Sports will be in attendance at the game and a full recap will be featured on Sunday.
By trade, he is a six-time, regional Emmy Award-winning news videographer/editor for KTVI/KPLR-TV. By hobby, he is a writer for Arch City Media, dating back to February 2014. Emphasis is on featuring and promoting local women's sports, but will cover anything that is not reported by traditional media outlets. Also a contributor to local concert reviews.
