PORTLAND, OR – Thunder defensive backs Varmah Sonie and Bryce Peila combined to produce the AFL’s Highlight of the Week, as Sonie ripped the ball from an Iowa receiver’s grasp and Peila picked up the loose ball and scored to give Portland its first lead of the game.

AFL HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK

Sonie (5-8, 175, Northern Iowa) forced a fumble by Iowa Barnstormers wide receiver Darius Reynolds, enabling Jack linebacker Bryce Peila (6-1, 205, Western Oregon) to scoop up the ball and return it 16 yards for a touchdown in Portland’s 36-40 loss to Iowa in Week 2. Sonie also recorded an interception in the game, while Peila enjoyed his second straight contest with a defensive touchdown.

Sonie was also nominated for the Riddell Defensive Player of the Week; he was beaten out by fellow Northern Iowa alum Tanner Varner, who picked off two passes and forced a fumble in Orlando’s comeback win over Los Angeles.

The Thunder have a bye week this week, but return to action April 5 in Anaheim to take on the Los Angeles KISS. For all the latest news and discussion on the Portland Thunder, follow the team on Facebook (facebook.com/PDXThunder), Twitter and Instagram (@PDXThunder).

Released 03.25.14
Portland Thunder
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