LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Hope International flag football delivered another strong performance, defeating UCLA 39-6 on Saturday behind explosive offense and a lockdown defensive effort.

HIU struck first when running back Ja'Niya Haley broke free for a 15-yard touchdown run to give the Royals an early lead. The conversion attempt was unsuccessful, but HIU held a 6-0 advantage.

UCLA quickly answered when its quarterback connected with Tenley Hill on a touchdown completion. The Bruins also failed on the conversion, tying the game at 6-6.

The Royals responded with one of the most electrifying plays of the game. Quarterback Anahi Morales launched a deep pass to wide receiver Madison Powell for a 50-yard gain. Powell then lateraled the ball to Jazmine Simental, who raced the rest of the way for a 55-yard touchdown. 

Morales and Powell connected on the conversion to put HIU ahead 13-6.

Morales continued her strong first half, finding Powell again for a 15-yard touchdown pass. The conversion failed, but HIU entered halftime with a commanding 19-6 lead.

The Royals kept the momentum going in the second half when Morales connected with Ana Sedic on a 5-yard touchdown pass, extending the lead to 25-6 after the conversion attempt fell short.

Backup quarterback Nia Gille added to the offensive showcase with a creative scoring play. Gille completed a short 5-yard pass to Sedic, who lateraled to Haley. Haley sprinted 35 yards to the end zone for the touchdown. Gille then found Haley again for the successful conversion, pushing the lead to 32-6.

HIU capped the night with another touchdown connection as Gille found Sedic for a 15-yard score. Gille connected with Powell on the conversion to seal the 39–6 victory.

The Royals' defense was equally impressive. Larissa Perez led the unit with five flag pulls and an interception, while Powell added six flag pulls. Nahla Nelson also contributed a key interception to help shut down the UCLA offense.

HIU returns to action on Tuesday, March 10, hosting Simpson for a 1:00 p.m. game at the OC Great Park Field #4.