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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Over 1,500 listeners accessed the web cast of the Florida High School Class 5A state semifinal between Mainland and Lakeland on the Daytona Beach Thunder’s website.

With two local radio stations unable to broadcast the game, the Thunder stepped up and provided the coverage for the undefeated Bucs as they tried to upend the two-time state champion and nationally-ranked Dreadnaughts. Lakeland won 35-24 in an instant classic.

“It was a great evening for football and we were glad to a part of it,’’ said WIFL Director of Communications Dan Ryan, who called the game along with Thunder coach Leon Bright and assistant coach Chad Rhodes. “Our appreciation goes out to everyone who listened, the staff of Lakeland High School and the Mainland community for letting us come on board.”

The last minute nature of producing a web cast caused some glitches, but overall feedback has been positive.

“Considering the Thunder had just three days to put it together and didn’t have the proper equipment, they did an outstanding job,’’ said Craig Blanchard of EZStream, who will be providing the Thunder and the World Indoor Football League its streaming service for the inaugural 2007 season. “Our FloridaCast.com affiliate really wanted this game and we were thrilled to have the Thunder provide the coverage. Judging from this, 2007 is going to be an exciting season.

Two listeners – Todd Fulcher and Edvon Krombel of Daytona Beach – won a set of tickets to the Thunder’s February 11 home opener against the Augusta Spartans.