It wasn't pretty, but it was a win nonetheless.
The Chicago Force endured temperatures in the 40s and blowing rain May 14, and had to come from behind for the first time this season to defeat the West Michigan Mayhem 15-6 at Winnemac Stadium on the campus of Amundsen High School.
The Force moves to 5-0, while the Mayhem drops to 2-2.
The Mayhem grabbed a 6-0 lead in the first quarter on a pair of field goals by Mary Beth McMillan.
The Force scored a safety by Angie Bandstra on the first play of the second quarter, then scored the game-winning touchdown at 14:16 of the second quarter when Leslie Johnson ran for a 59-yard touchdown.
Johnson finished with 70 yards rushing, while Brandy Hatcher had 66.
Chicago quarterback Sami Grisafe connected with Ashley Berggren on a 23-yard pass with 1:02 remaining in the first half and, after Carolyn Lee's extra-point kick, the Force led 15-6 at intermission.
Neither team scored in the second half as the rain affected both team's offensive game plans.
Chicago's Amber Burns led all players with 12 tackles, including four for a loss. Leslie Davis added eight tackles, with three for losses. Melissa Whyms grabbed the defensive MVP honors, presented by Spin Nightclub, thanks to her key first-quarter interception, which she returned for 41 yards.
Tricia Charbonneau was named the Spin Nightclub offensive MVP.
The Force hit the road May 21, playing at the St. Louis Slam in a rematch of its victory during week three. Then it's off to games at the Mayhem and the Indianapolis Crash. Playoff action starts in late June. Photos and text by Ross Forman