Barnstormers Snake-Bitten By Rattlers
Published on June 11, 2011 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Iowa Barnstormers News Release
Phoenix, AZ. - For the second straight week, the Iowa Barnstormers fell to one of the AFL's top teams as they dropped a 61-41 decision to the Arizona Rattlers before 8,654 fans at the U.S. Airways Arena on Saturday night. With the loss, Iowa drops to 3-9 on the season, while Arizona improves to 11-2, maintaining the top record in the National Conference.
The Rattlers jumped out to a quick 21-6 lead at the end of the first quarter, thanks in most part to two untimely Iowa turnovers, both of which occurred in the Arizona red-zone. Iowa Quarterback Brad Banks completed 17 of 27 passes for 139 yards and 3 touchdowns in the first half of play, but also committed two costly turnovers. Looking for a spark, Banks gave way to backup QB Bryan Lee-Lauduski at the start of the third quarter. Lee-Lauduski's numbers equaled those of banks as he completed 17 of 27 for 148 yards and 3 touchdowns. However neither Iowa quarterback could compare with the play of Arizona's Nick Davila who finished the night 20 of 28 for 268 and 7 touchdowns.
The Barnstormers Jesse Schmidt led all receivers with 11 receptions for 123 yards and 3 touchdowns. Iowa's Marquis Hamilton also accounted for 3 receiving touchdowns. The former Iowa State Cyclone now has 7 touchdowns in just 3 games with the Barnstormers. Schmidt's third TD of the night pulled the Barnstormers within 8 points, but that's as close as Iowa would get. The Rattlers sealed Iowa's fate when Davila found WR Rod Windsor for a 13 yard touchdown which closed the scoring with 7:47 remaining.
The Barnstormers return home to Wellmark Field next Saturday, June 18 when the Dallas Vigilantes come to town. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:05pm. The first 1,000 kids age 14 and under will receive a FREE Brad Banks Replica Jersey, courtesy of Coca Cola. Barnstormers father's day packages are also available for this game. For just $25.00 you can receive 2 game tickets, a Barnstormers hat for dad and be able to play catch on the field before the game from 3:30-5:00pm. Group and individual tickets are also available by calling the Barnstormers at 515.633.2255 or online at www.theiowabarnstormers.com.
Arena Football League Stories from June 11, 2011
- COMMAND Fall to Milwaukee - Kansas City Command
- Pittsburgh's Streak is Ended - Pittsburgh Power
- Barnstormers Snake-Bitten By Rattlers - Iowa Barnstormers
- Talons defeat Blaze - Tulsa Talons
- Predators Come Up Short Against Jacksonville Sharks - Orlando Predators
- Tulsa Hands Utah Third Consecutive Loss, 81-51 - Utah Blaze
- Sharks Sweep Predators, Win 68-67 - Jacksonville Sharks
- Storm defeat Power - Tampa Bay Storm
- Mustangs Win at Home 54-34 - Milwaukee Mustangs
- Victory improves Cleveland to 7-5 on the season and in Wild Card contention - Cleveland Gladiators
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
