NOTEBOOK Thunder vs. Steamwheelers

First matchup: Saturday’s game was the first between the Thunder of the American Conference’s East Division and Quad City Steamwheelers of the American’s Midwest Division. The 63-34 win made Mahoning Valley 3-2 over Midwest opponents.
Hollywood:- During the Thunder’s player introductions, Reggie Perkins first appeared on the upper level in the northeast corner of the arena — Darth Vader-like from the days of the Cleveland Force — before descending in flamboyant style, urging the crowd to get hyped. Perkins is a defensive back/return man.

Relief: Fullback Tim Murphy, who scored four touchdowns, including three via rush, said the Thunder’s victory may be the performance the Valley’s af2 team needed in its frantic attempt to avoid elimination from the league’s playoff race. “With this win, maybe we can separate ourselves from the pack,” he said.

Home drought over: The win was Mahoning Valley’s first at home since April 21, when the Thunder defeated the Cincinnati Jungle Kats. The win over Quad City evened Mahoning Valley’s record to 3-3 on Cortland Banks Field at the Chevrolet Centre.

Defense: DB Donald Sweeney had six solo tackles while Maurice Taylor had two interceptions for 22 return yards.

John Bassetti