Firebirds' streak halted by Rattlers, 46-43

April 25, 2004 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Albany/Indiana Firebirds News Release


Clay Rush's onside kick with under two minutes remaining was batted out of bounds and the Rattlers were able to successfully run out the clock as Arizona held off a late Firebird rally in winning 46-43. The loss snaps Indiana's franchise-record six-game winning streak and is their first under Coach Mike Wilpolt.

While Arizona jumped out to a 12-point lead after three, the fourth quarter belonged to the Firebirds. Trailing 40-35 with 10 minutes remaining, WR/LB Brett Bech (ADT Defensive Player of the Game) picked off an errant Sherdrick Bonner (Baby Ruth Real Deal Offensive Player of the Game) pass at his own 24 and returned it to the Arizona 10.

However, three plays later, the Firebirds found themselves snake-bitten yet again, as Charlie Cook coughed it up at the Arizona 3. Hunkie Cooper recovered the fumble to give Arizona the ball and the momentum with just over eight minutes to play. Five plays later, Bonner hooked up with Orshawa Bryant on a 16- yard completion to give the Rattlers some breathing room at 46-35.

Arizona nearly did themselves in by failing to play disciplined football, committing 13 penalties which cost them 69 yards. However, it was their ability to convert when their backs were against the wall that helped them win their fourth in a row, converting all four of their fourth downs including two Bonner- to-Siaha Burley touchdown connections that sealed the Firebirds' fate.

Adrian McPherson was solid in the loss, throwing for 248 yards and five touchdowns while rushing five times for 20 yards while tossing his first interception since week 5 against Orlando.



Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from April 25, 2004


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