Arkansas Cruises 53-34 over Abilene
March 27, 2010 - Indoor Football League (IFL)
Arkansas Diamonds News Release
For the Arkansas Diamonds, tonight was the debut of quarterback James Pinkney and he provided a spark that the offense needed. Leading just 19-13 at the half, the Diamonds exploded in the third quarter taking a 43-20 lead in to the fourth quarter. When the final horn sounded in Verizon Arena the Arkansas Diamonds throttled the Abilene Ruff Riders 53-34 to pick up their third win of the season and hold on to their lead in the East Division of the Indoor Football League's Intense Conference.
Pinkney, a six-foot-three 235 lbs quarterback from East Carolina was expected to be an impact player for the Diamonds this year, but he was unable to join the team until this week. Pinkney tossed three touchdown passes before being relieved by Willie Copeland.
Throughout the first half, Pinkney's timing with his receivers was noticeably off, but the Diamonds were able to secure the halftime lead. In the second half, Pinkney began to connect with his receivers more consistently and move the ball more efficiently. The Diamonds defense continued to show their tenacity as they limited the Ruff Riders offense and their scoring opportunities.
The Diamonds offense was led by receive Steven Savoy who had 99 yards receiving on seven catches for four touchdowns. Savoy was named Offensive Player of the Week. Pinkney had 139 yards passing and three touchdown passes. Copeland tossed a touchdown and ran for another in relief of Pinkney in the fourth quarter.
The Diamonds were lead on defense by Luis Vasquez who had three sacks for a total of eight yards for the Diamonds. For his effort, Vasquez was named Defensive Player of the Week.
The Diamonds celebrated the troops with a special "Salute Our Troops" halftime show featuring the swearing in of Air Force recruits and music by the Cliff Hudson Band. Next week the Diamonds will once again play at home again hosting the Corpus Christi Hammer Heads.
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