took to the field at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach for the first time.

Wilkes-Barre WR Coco Blaylock caught six passes for 76 yards and a touchdown for the Pioneers (1-1), who dominated play through most of the first half. Daytona Beach WR Toris Rutledge caught five passes for 29 yards and a touchdown for the ThunderBirds (0-2). Daytona Beach lost its home opener in their inaugural season. ThunderBirds QB Scott Jeffries passed for 76 yards and two touchdowns in the losing effort.

The Pioneers came out fast against the ThunderBirds taking a 42-0 lead at halftime.  The ThunderBirds played much better in the second half but had to overcome an insurmountable lead.  This was the first meeting between the two franchises.

Head Coach Herkie Walls was still optimistic after the loss.  “We are just experiencing some growing pains right now and I’m confident we will get better because we have to get better.”

The ThunderBirds next game will be on Monday, April 14 at 7:00 when the South Georgia Wildcats come to town.  For ticket information call the Ocean Center box office at 386-254-4545.