Dragons can't hold off Destroyers
by David Holusha
March 7, 2006 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
New York Dragons
With all but three minutes remaining in the game, the New York Dragons pushed ahead 54-51 on a 2-yard touchdown run by rookie QB Juston Wood. In a game where the Dragons had led most of the way in front of their hometown fans, NY appeared to be set up for the victory.
However, a late surge from the Columbus Destroyers defense turned the tide in stunning fashion, leading Columbus to an eventual 65-54 win.
Offensive Player of the Game Carl Bond pulled in 9 passes for total of 190 yards and three TD's. Combined with the cool, methodical play of Columbus QB John Kaleo, this became the offensive catalyst that propelled the Destroyers to their late, come-from-behind victory.
"We let one get away," said head coach Weylan Harding. "It was a battle of turnovers." And at the crucial moments of the game, late in the fourth quarter? "They made plays and we didn't make plays," said the coach.
"Turnovers and interceptions did us in," continued the coach. "Defensively we were down a man, with only one defensive specialist back there". Harding was referring to the fact that standout DS Dahnel Singfield had to leave the game in the second half with a hamstring injury. This loss certainly hurt the Dragons tremendously, as he was having another outstanding game, running back an interception for a TD, and contributing with five tackles.
Then there was Dragons rookie QB Juston Wood. Coming in for injured starter (and Arena Football legend) Aaron Garcia, this was the first complete start of his AFL career. At first glance, you wouldn't have noticed. Wood came out firing, completing pass after pass to the Dragons core of outstanding receivers. Showing strength and versatility, the young QB also bulled his way in for two rushing TD's as well.
But, late in the game - with everything on the line - it was the veteran Columbus Destroyer defense that came up big - and the talented, but inexperienced signal caller who struggled in the clutch. One could certainly understand if the pressure of the moment contributed to the young passers meltdown.
"We had a great opportunity in the second half to put the nail in the coffin and put them away, but we turned the ball over. That kills you in this game," said Wood.
It appeared, however, that Wood was being given much less time to make his decisions and execute the throws, as a collapsing front line had Columbus defenders immediately in his face.
"As a quarterback you have to move your feet, slide around and bide time and still make the throws you need to make," Wood continued.
"It wasn't a case of bad decisions, it was just a case of bad throws".
Or very good, very opportune defense. Defensive Player of the Game B.J. Barre picked off his second interception of the night, setting up FB Harold Wells for a 3 yard TD run. Those were the final points scored, as NY continued to struggle on offense in the waning minutes.
"Its frustrating, because we played a pretty good game. But four bad throws in this case, really killed us," said Wood.
The young QB finished with 28 completions on 40 attempts and 3 touchdowns, but with 4 interceptions.
"I'm anxious to get back to practice, to keep working with these guys and get ready to win the next game," Wood said finally.
One thing that can always be counted on at a New York Dragons Arena Football Game is the high-level of enthusiasm from the fans in attendance. Groups of kids always seem to be lining the front rows - with one shirtless crew this time spelling out the name "Dragons" across their chests. As always, the Firedancers provide equal parts glamour and athleticism in their routines. A brief chat with team co-captain Gina C after the game underscored the dedication these dancers bring every week. The same goes for in-game contest hostess Dina, who continues to entertain and delight the fans in attendance. You can view my own photos of Gina and Dina - along with many other lovely Firedancer , here on the photos page.
The Dragons now take it to the road for the next two weeks, beginning with an afternoon contest on Sunday in Austin against the Wranglers. NY returns home on Friday, March 24 to face the Kansas City Brigade.
Any comments, hate mail or love notes regarding this or any of my other articles can be addressed to dave_h_80_83@yahoo.com and I will be more than happy to get back to you.
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