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The D.C. Divas remained undefeated by upending the Philadelphia Firebirds, 42-0, on Saturday, putting the local women's football team in prime position to clinch the Eastern Division of the Independent Women's Football League.

The Divas (6-0) vaulted to a 21-0 lead at the end of the first quarter, set up by an interception from defensive back Kathryn Hemlock. Wide receiver Tara Stephenson scored from 19 yards out on a reverse, and Okiima Pickett added a 10-yard touchdown run. Quarterback Allyson Hamlin connected with receiver Nikki Williams on a 9-yard scoring toss to end the first quarter.

The Divas continued to score in the second, as Hamlin connected with Stephenson on a 16-yard strike, giving the Divas a commanding 28-0 lead. Defensive end Sharina Western recovered a fumble on the Firebirds' next possession and Pickett finished the job for the Divas. She carried four times for 37 yards and finished the drive on a 13-yard scoring run. Hemlock converted on all six extra-point attempts.

"That was the goal this week was to finish the game," said Divas' coach Keith Howard. "We're still going to need depth, so we played a lot of people. It was a good win. We were 1-0 in the week and that's our goal.

Saturday the Divas will host perennial power, the New York Sharks, in the second meeting between the two squads this season. On May 16, the Divas traveled to New York and handed the Sharks a 21-7 setback in what has been the closest contest for the D.C. squad this spring. In their six victories, the Divas have outscored their rivals, 230-28, while the defense has engineered three shutouts. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at the Prince George's Sports & Learning Complex in Landover.

"We have a really good team coming in here this weekend," Howard said. "I remember the [May 16] game was 0-0 at the half. Their backup quarterback started and she gave us fits. She's an excellent runner and passer. Their starting quarterback is back this weekend, so we'll have our work cut out for us."

D.C. Divas

What: Independent Women's Football League game vs. New York Sharks.

When: Saturday, 7 p.m. at Sports & Learning Complex, Landover.

Last meeting: QB Allyson Hamlin ran for a TD and threw for one to Tara Kallal in a the Divas' 21-7 win on May 16.

E-mail Ted Black at tblack@gazette.net.