Predators Drop Last-Minute Decision to New Orleans, 62-55
April 3, 2014 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Orlando Predators News Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA - The Orlando Predators (3-1) suffered their first loss of the season to the New Orleans VooDoo (1-2) in another back-and-forth battle that went down to the wire. The Predators once again fought through a contest that was decided in the final minutes, but unlike the previous three weeks, missed opportunities prevented the team from securing a victory.
Orlando entered the final quarter of play tied 41-41 after closing out the third period with a 22-yard touchdown reception by WR Gerald Young. New Orleans would break the tie to open the fourth quarter, as QB Kurt Rocco found WR LJ Castile for an 18-yard score. However, a missed PAT attempt put the VooDoo up by only six points.
Orlando promptly responded, needing only one play to retake the lead. On the first play of the ensuing Predators drive, Boltus launched a 40-yard pass to WR Greg Carr, who put his six-foot-six frame on display as he outmuscled a defender for the ball to give the Predators a 48-47 lead.
Following a turnover on downs by the VooDoo, Orlando added to its lead a series later. On the second play of the ensuing drive, Boltus dropped back and launched a 33-yard touchdown pass to Young, giving the Predators a 55-47 advantage.
New Orleans managed to tie the game 55-55 with just over a minute remaining on the clock, as FB Kevin Ashak found the end zone from two yards out. After recovering an onside kick attempt by the VooDoo, Orlando looked poised to seal another victory with a late-game effort. However, Boltus would have his pass attempt intercepted by LB Alvin Ray Jackson on third-and-goal and Rocco found Castile for a 17-yard touchdown to close out the 62-55 loss.
Boltus finished the night completed 27-of-42 pass attempts for 375 yards and eight touchdowns with two interceptions. Greg Carr led the receiving corps with 176 yards and four touchdowns, while Gerald Young hauled in seven passes for 116 yards and two scores. Khalil Paden added 72 yards and two touchdowns on seven catches.
The Orlando Predators return home in Week 5 to take on the Philadelphia Soul on Thursday, April 10th. Kickoff from CFE Arena is scheduled for 7:30pm EST. Tickets are still available for purchase by calling 407-648-4444!
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Arena Football League Stories from April 3, 2014
- VooDoo Get First Win, Turn Back Predators - New Orleans VooDoo
- Predators Drop Last-Minute Decision to New Orleans, 62-55 - Orlando Predators
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- Gladiators Austin Voted Week 3 AFL MVP - Cleveland Gladiators
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