Despite allowing the first-ever four-point field goal in United Football League history, the St Louis Battlehawks came from behind Saturday, Mar. 28 to upend the defending champions DC Defenders 16-10 to open the UFL season at the Dome at America’s Center.

The first points on the board came off the boot of Matt McCrane, who laced through a 60-yarder during the Defenders’ opening drive, taking advantage of a change in UFL rules to enhance the kicking game. The Battlehawks responded with a field goal of their own; however, it was from 58 yards by Tucker McCann, keeping the Defenders in the lead. A one-yard rush from Deon Jackson extended DC’s lead 10-3 later in the quarter.

The Battlehawks initially struggled to take advantage of offensive mistakes by their former quarterback Jordan Ta’amu, who threw two interceptions but could only get another field goal off of them. However, St Louis were able to take the lead on their second drive of the third quarter, when Tyler Neville caught a ten-yard pass from Brandon Silvers. McCann added a field goal early in the fourth quarter for insurance, as the Battlehawks defense stuffed DC with seven sacks.

Silvers completed the game 16-for-28 with 198 yards and one touchdown. One of those passes was to Gary Jennings Junior for 64 yards. On the ground, Jarveon Howard recorded 45 yards on 11 carries, while Kevon Latulas added 23 on ten totes.

The Battlehawks begin the season with a 1-0 record, and will visit the Dallas Renegades the evening of April 7.