Destroyers Ready to Slay the Dragons
April 26, 2002 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Buffalo Destroyers News Release
(BUFFALO, NY) – The Buffalo Destroyers look to stay atop the Eastern Division this Sunday as they head to Long Island to meet the New York Dragons at noon (Empire Sports Network, WNSA 107.7 FM).
“New York has struggled so far this season, that scares you as a coach because you know you will see their best effort,” said Destroyers head coach and general manager Ray Bentley. “We just need to take of business and things will work out.”
The New York Dragons were previously the Iowa Barnstormers (1995-2000) and three current Destroyers played for the Barnstormers; Lamont Cooper, 1996-98; Carlos James, 1995-2000; and John Motton 1997-2000. James has played the second most games in franchise history with 81 and is the all-time interceptions leader with 26. Motton holds the franchise record for rushing yards in a game with 51 and Cooper is the franchise record holder for MFG return yards in a game with 60.
Sunday’s game will feature the last two “Don’t Blink” Players of the Year, Destroyers OS Lamont Cooper won the award in 2000 and 2001. This off-season the Dragons brought in two-time “Don’t Blink” award winner OS Steve Papin to replace the production lost with the departure of OS Kevin Swayne, who joined the NFL’s New York Jets. Papin, who won the award in 1998 and 1999, ranks among the league leaders in scoring, all-purpose yards, return touchdowns and return yards.
“Papin presents a unique challenge due to his ability to run after the catch,” Bentley added. “Our defense will need to swarm around him and gang tackle.”
Destroyers K Steve McLaughlin needs just two points to move into eighth place all-time in the Arena Football League for points by a kicker. McLaughlin has 451 career points, two behind former Destroyer Bjorn Nittmo (8th place with 453 points).
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