Knights Quiet the Thunder; Put Pressure on Augusta
July 1, 2002 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Macon Knights News Release
MACON, Ga. The Macon Knights (11-2) extended their winning streak to seven games with a 66-43 victory over the Tallahassee Thunder (7-5) Friday night at the Macon Coliseum in front of 3,006 fans.
The game began like a heavyweight fight with both teams trading punches early. Tallahassee and Macon scored on each of their first two possessions, ending the first quarter in a 14-14 tie. But, after the first 15 minutes the Thunder began to break down and received a knockout punch with 16 seconds to go in the second quarter. The Knights scored in two plays after a Thunder turnover, and the Knights took a thirteen-point lead into halftime. And that was as close as the Thunder would be for the rest of the game.
Game MVP honors were awarded to Knights QB John Rayborn for the second straight week and the fourth time in six weeks. Rayborn continued to put up big numbers as he threw for 278 yards and nine touchdowns. Rayborn completed 22-of-29 passes (75%) with no interceptions, and hit five receivers for at least two catches and four players for at least one touchdown.
The Knights executed a balanced offensive attack, reaping the benefits of spreading the ball around. The Knights receiving crew was led by Jacques Rumph and Gabe Amey who both racked up 83 yards and three touchdowns. The Knights offensive success continued with Martez Wesley catching six balls for 64 yards, Norman Mason hauling in two passes for 38 yards and Byron Douzart catching two passes for 16 yards.
Mason was named the Ironman of the Game after turning in a solid performance on both sides of the line of scrimmage. Mason recorded three tackles, broke up one pass and intercepted one pass, returning it for 45 yards.
The Knights defense, which shutout Tallahassee in the third quarter, was led by Denario Smalls. For his efforts, Smalls was voted the ADT Defensive Player of the Game. Turning in his best defensive performance of the season, Smalls recorded six tackles, forced one fumble which he recovered for a 19-yard gain and broke up five passes.
Even though the Knights dominated the game, the Thunder managed to put up impressive numbers but failed to put the ball into the end zone in crucial situations. The Thunders Cainon Lamb led all receivers with 134 yards on nine receptions. Thunder QB Vic Penn completed 27-of-48 passes for 329 yards and four touchdowns, but threw two costly interceptions late in the first half.
The Knights are back in action Saturday, July 6th, at 8:00 pm in Pensacola. The Thunder will travel to Jacksonville Friday, July 5th in a 7:30 pm game.
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