Dragons Defeat Philly 45-44 In Scrimmage
February 21, 2008 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
New York Dragons News Release
The Dragons defeated the Philadelphia Soul last night in a scrimmage that showed what New York is ready to bring to the field for the 2008 season. The 45-44 victory over Philadelphia was decided by a game-winning field goal with no time left on the clock.
Coaches and players alike can feel the season right around the corner after the excitement experienced at the Wachovia Spectrum. While veterans are used to the back and forth's of the game, some rookies had their first taste of what Arena Football is all about, playing every second of the game like it's never really over.
Philadelphia scored first and an interception in the end zone by rookie DB Levy Brown stopped the Soul on their second offensive drive keeping the score at 7-0. Aaron Garcia started the scrimmage at quarterback and recorded two touchdowns, one in the first quarter to Kevin Swayne tying the game at 7, and later connecting with Chris Anthony in the second quarter, evening the score at 14.
"It felt good. It felt like it was good game since we had to play all four quarters to win and we pulled together as a team to get that win," said Garcia.
Rohan Davey came in late in the second quarter and connected with Keron Henry for a touchdown before the half. The Dragons trailed Philadelphia at halftime 21-24.
The Soul scored first in the second half extending their lead to 31-21. Davey came back with a 34-yard touchdown pass to Damien Groce closing the gap to 31-28. Philly then connected again bringing the score to 37-28 after a missed PAT.
The Dragons then went on an offensive drive that would end the third quarter and bring them to score early in the fourth with a three-yard rush for a touchdown by FB Dan Crozier. The Dragons now only trailed by two (37-35). On Philadelphia's next drive, DB John Walker intercepted the pass and recorded a 42-yard return for a touchdown, and the Dragons took the lead for the first time in the game with under five minutes remaining and the score at 42-37.
Philly capitalized on what would be their second to last drive of the game bringing the score to 44-42. QB Ryan Vena entered the game but was picked off on a throw to Terry Moss. With under two minutes left in the game, the Soul were given a last opportunity but the Dragons defense capitalized and stopped Philly with nine seconds left on the clock. Vena completed a 15-yard pass to WR Jeremiah Pope that was fumbled as he tried to get out of bounds, however Philly was charged with roughing the passer, keeping the Dragons alive.
With no time left on the clock, the Dragons brought in rookie kicker Chris Onorato to attempt a 36-yard field goal. Onorato lived up to his nickname "The Foot" that he was given in the af2 last season, after kicking the game-winner and bringing the Dragons home on top, 45-44.
"This scrimmage was encouraging. The competition was tight and it has been good to see our guys pulling together," said Harding.
The Dragons now have 11 days until they kick off the 2008 season on the road in Cleveland on Monday, March 3rd at 7:00pm. The Dragons coaches and player personnel staff have their work cut out for them in the next few days, as they decide the final roster which will lead them into the regular season.
"We have a good group of guys and cuts will be tough, but every coach wants the choices to be difficult. It speaks for the level of talent," Harding added.
Don't miss out on Dragons Head Coach Weylan Harding announcing the official 2008 roster this Saturday, February 23rd at Dave & Buster's in Westbury from 2:00pm-4:00pm. This is an event exclusive for Dragons season ticket holders only. Call 1-866-AFL-TIXX for season tickets and to reserve your seat at the 2nd Annual Kickoff Party. Players, coaches and FireDancers will be signing autographs and taking pictures with Dragons fans!
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