FULLERTON, Calif. - Hope International spoiled a historical day for the Simpson University Red Hawks as they took down Simpson 52-13 in its first-ever Flag Football game. 

The Royals jumped out to a commanding 33-0 lead as they posted five scoring drives in the first half. Simpson found the end zone midway through the second quarter as Kylie Schultz connected with Imani Watkins for a 55-yard pitch and catch to score the first-ever touchdown in program history. 

Hope International's Anahi Morales had herself a stellar first half as she accounted for four touchdowns while passing and rushing for a pair of touchdowns to lead Hope into halftime with a 39-6 lead. 

The Royals kept rolling as they began the second half with a pick-six to extend their lead. But the Red Hawks' defense settled down as they held the Royals offense off the scoreboard for the entire third quarter. 

But the damage proved too much for Simpson as they dropped their conference opener against Hope International to begin league play in the GSAC. 

Schultz notched a 100-yard performance on the ground as she rushed for 104 yards while adding one touchdown pass.

Taylor Zalunardo led the defense with eight stops and one sack, while Sophia Wright posted a two-sack game.

Simpson continues conference play tomorrow as they take on La Sierra at 6 pm in Riverside, CA. 
 

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