Destroyers Ready To Face Gladiators on Sunday
June 21, 2002 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Buffalo Destroyers News Release
(BUFFALO N.Y.) â The Buffalo Destroyers will put their two game winning streak on the line this Sunday when they travel to New Jersey to take on the Gladiators. Kickoff is set for 3:00PM at the Continental Airlines Arena.
First place in the Eastern Division is up for grabs with Buffalo at 5-4, while New Jersey stands at 6-3. In addition, New Jersey brings their own two game winning streak into Sunday's matchup.
"We have done well enough so far this season that first place is on the line in week ten," said Destroyers head coach and general manager Ray Bentley. "This game represents a huge challenge for us."
Leading the Destroyers into battle this week will be QB Fred McNair. This Sunday's game will be McNair's third contest since missing one game with a hamstring injury. He is 2-0 since returning to the lineup.
"The key to this game is Fred McNair," said Bentley. "His timing has improved. He played well last week and we expect more of the same from him this week."
The Destroyers defeated the Gladiators in week one 53-51 at the HSBC Arena. McNair picked up MVP honors going 16 of 21 for 191 yards and five touchdowns. He also rushed for two yards and a touchdown.
"New Jersey is an improved team since the first time we played them," said Bentley. "Their line is playing well and they play every down with a strong effort. We must match their intensity if we are to win on Sunday."
In addition to New Jersey's offensive and defensive lines, the Destroyers will key on Gladiators QB Jay McDonagh. Last week, McDonagh threw for 169 yards and three touchdowns to go along with a rushing touchdown. McDonagh was the game MVP in the Gladiators victory over Tampa Bay.
Sunday's game will be on radio at 107.7 FM WNSA and 1240 AM WJTN. The game can be seen on the YES network on tape delay at 8:30PM Sunday night.
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