by Henry Miller | Staff Writer
This week the Pirates travelled to McMinnville, Oregon to face off against the Linfield Wildcats. This highly anticipated matchup of top ranked division three schools did not live up to its pre-game hype as the Pirates could not overcome five turnovers including an interception that resulted in the first score of the game.
The 14th ranked pirates moved to 3-1 after Saturday’s loss. The Pirate offense showed up as usual as the almost equaled Linfield in total offense. Even Senior quarterback Ian Kolstee, the division three leader in quarterback passing efficiency, struggled to pick apart the secondary throwing three interceptions, despite leading in total passing yards.
Kicker Rehn Reiley, ‘19, accounted for all of the Pirates scoring. Reiley’s field goal kicking was a perfect three for three.
The Wildcats and Pirates almost equally shared time of possession. Turnovers caused by the Linfield defense proved to be the tale of the tape. Three interceptions and two fumbles for a total of 62 yards and a touchdown. Pressure on Kolstee contributed to the turnovers as well. Kolstee was sacked three times and hit three times.
Wide receiver Nick Kiourkas, ‘18, extended a 35 game streak of at least one pass reception. Defensive back Shai Palawa, ‘19, intercepted his first pass of the year, adding to the Pirate’s five total interceptions.
The Pirates face of against George Fox University (3-1) in this year’s Homecoming game at the Pine Bowl.