Bloomington Extreme Defeat Reading Express, 44-14
March 12, 2011 - Indoor Football League (IFL)
Reading Express News Release
Reading, Pa. (March 11, 2011) - The Reading Express suffered a tough 44-14 loss Friday night against the undefeated Bloomington Extreme. A slow start along with mistakes on the field led to an unsteady performance on the field.
Reading Express QB Chris Malleo and the offense had their hands full trying to solve the Bloomington Extreme defense.
"It's hard to say that they slowed us down so much that we shot ourselves in the foot," said Malleo.
Malleo struggled through the air, finishing 16 for 33 passing for just 149 yards. He did, however, add 71 yards on the ground on 13 carries, showing once again his ability to make plays with his feet.
Despite a low-scoring night, there were a few positive signs for the offense. Malleo hooked up with his two main targets, Nate Romig and Jeff Willis, for a combined 10 completions for 111 yards and two touchdowns.
The defense, while allowing 44 points, had some very bright spots, coming up with key stops and getting to the quarterback on several occasions.
"The mistakes that we made tonight are all correctable. We made mistakes and did not play well and it came back to haunt us," said Express Head Coach Chris Thompson. "We just could not get in sync. That is not like us."
Meanwhile, Malleo stresses the importance of preparation for the next game.
"We need to watch film and make sure that we know what we all need to do individually on every play so that we can make things happen," said Malleo.
Playoff Preview: With a 65-22 lifetime record, it would be no surprise if the 1-2 Express end up in this year's IFL playoffs. It would also be no surprise if the playoffs go through Bloomington. The Extreme, at 3-0, seem to be the class of the Indoor Football League. Tonight's game could have very well have been a precursor for a future matchup this June or July in the IFL playoffs.
Next Game: The Express return to The Reading Hospital Medical Group Field to take on the Arizona Adrenaline on Sunday, March 20. Tickets start at just $8. Call the Reading Express office at 610.372.7277 or visit the Sovereign Center box office to order your tickets for the game. It's Firefighter Appreciation Night, and a PyroMusical will be on display at halftime of the Sunday game. Kickoff is set for 4:00 p.m.
The Reading Express are one of the most established franchises in indoor football. In five seasons, the team has amassed an overall record of 64-20 with four playoff appearances, two conference titles and the 2009 AIFA National Championship. In 2011, Reading will begin play as a new member of the Indoor Football League.
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