Austin Loses to Corpus Christi 61-48
March 29, 2008 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Austin Wranglers News Release
AUSTIN -The Austin Wranglers started off their first season in arenafootball2 on a high-note, taking an early 28-7 lead, but would eventually fall 61-48, to the Corpus Christi Sharks at the Frank Erwin Center in front of 4,158 fans.
The Wranglers started off the game with a defensive statement as linebacker Mel Long, US Army Strong Ironman of the Game, intercepted two passes from Corpus Christi quarterback Fran Johnson, returning both for touchdowns. Long finished the game with one tackle in addition to his two interceptions.
Austin's offense kicked off the second quarter with a score as Wranglers quarterback Jeffrey Terrell would find receiver John Roberson on two separate occasions for scores of three and 22 yards.
Entering the second half with a 28-13 lead, the Wranglers kicked off to Corpus Christi. Sharks' kick returner Ivory McCann set the tone for the half with a 57-yard touchdown return. The Sharks would continue their scoring streak as receiver Brandon Hussey, Schutt Offensive Player of the Game, hauled in two third-quarter touchdown passes from Johnson to give Corpus Christi the lead, 40-28. Corpus Christi receiver Jonathon Graham also added a third-quarter touchdown reception, on a ball, which he took off the net. He was awarded the Cutters Catch of the Game for his spectacular catch.
Following a 47-0 scoring run for Corpus Christi, the Wranglers scored their first points of the second half on a touchdown catch from Roberson, his third of the night. With more than nine minutes left in the game, Austin trailed 54-36.
After the two teams traded touchdowns, the Wranglers needed a miracle in order to pull this one out. That's just what they got on a recovered fumble by defensive lineman Estus Hood with less than four minutes remaining in the game. Now with momentum on their side following the turnover, the Wranglers needed to score to keep their hopes alive. On a crucial fourth-down play Terrell's pass to Roberson was broken up by a Sharks defensive back to put the game away.
The game was capped off with an incredible play from Wranglers receiver Jovon Russell on a 24-yard touchdown catch over the out-stretched arms of a Corpus Christi defender.
Sharks linebacker Tyrell McCrea earned the ADT Defensive Player of the Game with three total tackles, one sack, and one quarterback hit in the Corpus Christi victory.
Terrell led the way offensively for Austin with 213 yards passing and four touchdown passes. Roberson finished the night with six catches for 87 yards and three scores.
With the loss, the Wranglers start the season 0-1. Their next game is against the Lubbock Renegades next Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Frank Erwin Center. Great seats for next Saturday's game are still available by calling 512.339.3939 or visit www.austinwranglers.com for more information.
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