A New Beginning: Richards and Co. Beat Revolution, 45-37
May 8, 2006 - National Indoor Football League (NIFL)
Montgomery Bears News Release
(MONTGOMERY, AL) The 2005 National Indoor Football League (NIFL) Atlantic Division Champion, Montgomery Maulers, collected a 45-37 win over the Greensboro Revolution on Saturday night in front of 891 fans at the Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery.
"[It] feels great to get this win," said new Maulers Co-Owner and Head Coach Michael Mink. "We have overcame a lot of obstacles in the last past week as a team and organization, but we were still able to work through them and get football back up and running in Montgomery...Theses guys have faced a lot of adversity here lately and I think they were honestly just happy to have the opportunity to get back in uniform and play again," said Mink.
The Maulers did just that, following opening ceremonies and the toss of the coin by the Maulers New Co-Owner/General Manager, Mr. John Morris, the Maulers got down to business, posting 45 points, 21 more points than their season average per game, and combining for 303 offensive yards. Wide Receiver Silas Daniels (Auburn University) put the Maulers on the board in the opening minutes of the first quarter, when Maulers quarterback, J.R. Richardson (Alabama State University) connected on a 20-yard pass to Daniels. The extra point attempt was good by kicker Brian Bostick (Alabama State University).
"The intensity was unbelievable [in the Garrett Coliseum]," said Morris. "The fans and players alike were so happy that the Maulers are finally playing football again. I'm really optimistic about this team and the Montgomery community and believe that attendance will increase...A lot of people really came together to help put on [Saturday night's] game. On behalf of the Maulers organization, I really can't thank those businesses and individuals enough," said Morris.
In addition to snapping a four-game losing streak with Saturday's win, the Maulers had several players have a season-high game. Wide receiver Shaun Holmes (Alabama State University) had 10 receptions for 86 yards and scored a season-high three touchdowns, including the game-winning touchdown with 7:10 remaining in fourth quarter.
Richardson had a season-high five touchdown passes in Saturday's win, completing 16 of 22 passes for 167 yards and no interceptions. This was Richardson's first game this season without an interception.
"Wow, what can I say about the night those two had," said Mink. "Tonight they were back on the field for the first time in three weeks. They were asked to run plays they had only practiced twice and were playing under an altered coaching staff...they were asked to adjust and execute and they did just that. Our offensive line was outstanding, giving J.R. [Richardson] time to throw the ball and Shaun [Holmes], [running back] Charlie Rollins and the rest of the offense the opportunity to get open and score," said Mink.
Charlie Rollins (Miles College) had one touchdown in Saturday's 45-37 win. It came in the closing minutes of the first half. Rollins also scrambled for 116 yards on 19 carries.
The Mauler defense held the Revolution to 37 points, 13 less than their season average, while forcing the Revolution's quarterback, Fernie Garza (Carthage College), to throw three interceptions. Defensive Back Jamaal Fletcher (Alabama State University) had perhaps one of the biggest defensive plays of the game when he picked off a 19-yard pass ending the Revolutions offensive drive from the Maulers own 20-yardline late in the fourth quarter.
Following, the interception, the Maulers offensive unit advanced four yards up field, before Richardson took a knee to close out the game and give the Maulers the win. Defensive back, Antoine Hill (Alabama State University) had two interceptions in the win.
"I think Saturday's win is a strong indication of the talent that's on this team," said Morris. "I am really excited and can't wait for next weekend's game. I hope that Saturday's win has set a new tone for this team and organization...It's a new season for us," said Morris.
The Maulers will be back at the Garrett Coliseum this Saturday when they host the Drillers of Beaumont, TX. Saturday is Fan Appreciation Night. All tickets, excluding floor VIP seats, will be $10.00. Also, fans will receive a free Maulers Rally Towel at the gates while supplies last. The gates open at 6:00 PM and kick-off is set for 7:05 PM.
Tickets can be purchased at three different locations including the Maulers Headquarters located in Eastdale Mall, at the Garrett Coliseum or online at ticketmaster.com.
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