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In a rematch of last year`s quarterfinal game, CCR Novas and Scrubs squared off in the semi-finals of the 2006 IFFL Spring Playoffs at Herndon Intermediate School. The Scrubs were looking to avenge last year`s gut-wrenching 14-12 loss which came down to the last play of the game. CCR kicked off first and the Scrubs used a variety of guard dumps and short passing plays to drive into Nova territory. The drive stalled however, when the Scrubs QB overthrew his receiver and Novas DB Malcolm James hauled in the interception to give the ball to the CCR offense. After implementing a new offensive scheme last week to counter the Larrys` unorthodox defense, CCR was back to its regular playbook, using options, guard releases, and sideline routes to drive into Scrubs territory. The Novas early success running the ball set up the first big play of the game, when Novas QB John Hering pulled up on an option right and threw back across the field to wide-open center Chris Mack. Mack nearly scooted into the endzone, but had his flag pulled at the one yard line. Two plays later, Hering found RB Pete Angstadt on an outside crossing pattern for the score. The Novas were without their kicker though, and it hurt them when their extra point try sailed wide left leaving the score 6-0. The Scrubs next drive was reminiscent of their first possession as they efficiently used the short passing game to drive into the Novas red zone. With time running out in the half, the Scrubs` QB made his second mistake of the day when a miscommunication with his receiver led to an easy endzone pick for Angstadt. With 7 seconds left in the half the Novas kneeled on the ball and the halftime score was CCR 6 - Scrubs 0. The Novas received the second half kickoff and again drove methodically down the field. On second and goal from the 4, Novas FB Josh Friedman made a nifty one-handed catch and scampered into the endzone for the touchdown. CCR elected to go for two, and was successful on a bullet pass from G Tom White to WR Dave Szczesniak to make the score 14-0. The Scrubs` next drive was marred by an on-field scuffle between a CCR defensive lineman and a Scrubs` guard. Cooler heads prevailed with teammates from both the Scrubs and Novas stepping in to prevent a bad situation from getting worse. The two involved in the altercation were ejected from the game and the game continued. The Scrubs once again drove deep into CCR territory, but again could not punch it in. On 4th and goal, LB Che Parker grabbed the Novas` 3rd interception of the game for a touchback. The Novas offense ran out the remainder of the clock and the final score was 14-0. Despite the on-field flare-up the game was hard-played with overall good sportsmanship as indicated by the post-game handshakes and congratulations. CCR wishes the Scrubs good luck in the Fall.