Morris, Minn. – Crown and the Cougars of Minnesota Morris locked horns in a classic shootout on Saturday night, with the host Cougars holding on for 42-35 victory.

The Cougars led 21-7 after the first quarter, and pushed that lead to 28-7 in the first half, before Crown answered to pull to within one score at 28-21 heading into halftime.

Morris notched the only points in the third quarter, pushing their lead to 35-21 before back to back Crown touchdowns tied things up with just 5:11 to go in the game.

The Cougars would score on a six-play, 60 yard drive to once again take a seven point lead at 42-35 with 3:10 remaining on the clock.

Needing a touchdown, the Storm came up just short, driving into Cougar territory before a turnover on downs ended the drive and the game.

Jared Gilmore once again marshalled the offense, completing 31 of 57 passes for 293 yards an four touchdowns.  He was intercepted twice. 

All four touchdown passes went to top target Cole Mistretta who entered the game leading the UMAC in most receiving categories.  Mistretta finished the game with 13 grabs for 113 yards and the four scores. 

Terry Warner caught six balls for 71 yards while George Green grabbed seven passes for 70 yards. 
The Storm rushing game had their biggest performance of the season with Avory Caruthers going over the 100-yard mark with 102 yards on 23 carries with one touchdown.  Josh Wallace carried 10 times for 63 yards.

Place Kicker Jonah Osborne also deserves special mention as the first year player from Redding, California connected on all five point after attempts.

Terris Watson led the defense with nine tackles while Quis Icon provided the big plays, recording his first career interception and also recovering a fumble to go along with five tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss.  Noe Urrea, Gabe Banks, and Shane Van Roo each recorded a sack, with Isaac Herron forcing the fumble that Icon recovered. 

The Storm return home next weekend as they host UMAC newcomers Finlandia for a noon kickoff on Saturday.