Box Score 1 | Box Score 2

BRADENTON, Fla. – The Warner University Royals opened the inaugural NAIA Flag Football Invitational in dominant fashion on Thursday, securing two impressive victories to remain undefeated on the season. Warner defeated No. 8 University of Saint Francis 46-6 in its opening matchup before earning a hard-fought 33-19 victory over No. 5 Baker University later in the day.

The pair of victories showcased exactly why Warner has emerged as one of the premier programs in the nation, combining explosive offensive production with relentless defensive pressure throughout both contests.

Leading the charge once again was SUN Conference Player of the Year Kathryn Hutchinson, whose elite play making continued to shine on the national stage. Hutchinson commanded the offense, extending plays, delivering accurate throws, and orchestrating scoring drives that overwhelmed opposing defenses. Her performances throughout the day further solidified her reputation as one of the nation's top quarterbacks.

Against St. Francis, Jessica Finley delivered one of the most electric halves of the season, hauling in an astonishing three receiving touchdowns in the first half alone. Finley consistently created separation and capitalized on big-play opportunities as the Royals raced out to a commanding lead early in the contest.

Maggie Lauber also continued her standout postseason run, providing Warner with explosive offensive production and highlight-worthy plays that energized the Royals sideline throughout the day. Her ability to create after the catch and stretch the field vertically gave opposing defenses constant problems.

Defensively, Warner once again proved why it has been one of the nation's most dangerous two-way teams all season. O'Mariah Gordon, Ana Vincensini, Angeline Bunting, and Lauren Clark each played pivotal roles on the defensive side of the ball, creating turnovers, recording interceptions, and generating momentum-shifting plays. The Royals' aggressive defensive approach resulted in multiple takeaways, including pick-sixes and key stops that kept both opponents from finding sustained offensive rhythm.

Warner's defensive pressure paired with offensive efficiency allowed the Royals to control tempo throughout the opening day of competition, continuing the momentum from an already historic undefeated season.

With the two victories, Warner advances into a pivotal semifinal showdown with familiar SUN Conference rival Keiser University.

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Up Next

The Royals return to action tomorrow at 2 p.m. as they face Keiser University with a trip to the NAIA National Championship game on the line. Warner will look to continue its historic undefeated run and earn the opportunity to compete for a national title.

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