Former Stillman football player helps Berlin Thunder

Football: Former Stillman football player helps Berlin Thunder get past Claymores Apr. 5, 2004 TUSCALOOSA, AL---Former Stillman College linebacker Brenden Givan recorded a team high eight tackles and recovered a fumble to help lead the Berlin Thunder past the Scottish Claymores Sunday evening, as all home teams won on NFL Europe's opening day.
The Berlin Thunder overcame pouring rain and history, to record their first opening day victory in history by beating the Claymores 20-14. The win ended the Thunder's 0-5 winless streak in opening day match ups.
Berlin's defense was put in some tough situations during the game but managed to fight off the Claymores attack at crucial moments. The Thunder registered two take-aways on defense and sealed the victory on linebacker Brenden Givan's fumble recovery with less than two minutes remaining in the ball game.
The outcome of the game would not be decided until the very last minute as both teams played relentlessly in the hope of coming out on top at the end, but Berlin's offensive power proved to be the difference on the scoreboard.
After a slow start, the Thunder offense came to life in the second quarter behind quarterback David Rivers who finished the day completing 8-of-10 passes for 106 yards and 1 touchdown. Rivers set up his touchdown throw to wide receiver Chas Gessner with a 24-yard strike to tight end Bryan Fletcher on the previous play to spark the Thunder passing game.
Givan, Stillman's all-time leader in tackles and sacks, recorded three special teams tackles.
Berlin will next play at the Amsterdam Admirals on Saturday, April 10 at 7 pm. (local time). The Admirals lost to the Frankfurt Galaxy 34-11 in the league's first game of the season.
The Thunder posted a 3-7 record for the 2003 season. For more information about the Berlin Thunder visit http://www.nfleurope.com.
For more information about Stillman Athletics visit http://www.stillman.edu/stillman/sports/sports.html.
-Tigers