Destroyers set to face Rattlers on Friday
June 27, 2002 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Buffalo Destroyers News Release
(BUFFALO N.Y.) â The Buffalo Destroyers continue their drive toward the playoffs Friday night when they host the Arizona Rattlers at HSBC Arena. Kickoff is set for 7:30PM.
The Destroyers are atop the Eastern Division with a 6-4 record and bring a three game winning streak into Friday's contest. Arizona enters this week with the second best record in the league. They stand at 7-3 and in second place in the Western Division.
The Destroyers are currently seeded fourth in the playoff standings and this game will be pivotal for playoff positioning.
"To me this game is bigger than last week's because of the way we played," said Destroyers head coach and general manager Ray Bentley.
Destroyers QB Fred McNair will be a key in Friday's game. He is looking to duplicate his performance from last week against New Jersey. McNair threw for 306 yards and six touchdowns. McNair was named the leagues Offensive Player of the Week for his effort.
"We're close to being where we should be and that is because Fred is playing well," said Bentley. "If you give Fred time he will find the right guy."
The Destroyers have a difficult challenge this week in the Rattlers. Buffalo has lost both matchups in franchise history against Arizona, including a 41-34 loss in the 2000 playoffs.
"Arizona is a very good team, they are well coached, talented and experienced," said Bentley. "Preparation will be a key for us this week."
This week's game ends a two game road trip for the Fleet. They went 2-0 while away from HSBC Arena, improving their road record to 2-3.
Friday's game will be on radio at 107.7 FM WNSA and 1240 AM WJTN.
• Discuss this story on the Arena Football League (1987-2008) message board...
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from June 27, 2002
- Phantoms Haunted by Last Minute Interception - Toronto Phantoms
- Desperados Sign Danny Thomas - Dallas Desperados
- Cobras Entertain Predators With Division Lead on the Line - Carolina Cobras
- Worth the Wait for New Jersey's Robinson - AFL I
- AFL Goes Live to the Internet - AFL I
- Destroyers set to face Rattlers on Friday - Buffalo Destroyers
- Cobras Make Roster Moves in Preparation for Orlando - Carolina Cobras
- Arena Football League Transactions - AFL I
- Probherbs Rejoins Destroyers Lineup; Olive To IR - Buffalo Destroyers
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.
