Dragons Fall to Gladiators 49-61 in Season Opener
March 3, 2008 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
New York Dragons News Release
After falling behind 14-0 in the first quarter, the New York Dragons played catch up and even led in the third quarter. But they ultimately fell 61-49 to the Cleveland Gladiators at Quicken Loans Arena, Monday night in their season opener.
Dragons QB Aaron Garcia left the game with a sprained knee and did not return to action following an interception early in the second quarter. Garcia finished the game 7-of-16 for 64 yards and one interception.
QB Rohan Davey stepped up commendably to fill in for Garcia and was 21-of-30 for 249 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. Leading the way on the receiving end for the Dragons was WR Kevin Swayne, who finished with 130 yards and three touchdowns. WR/LB Chris Anthony chipped in with 83 yards and two touchdowns.
The Dragons took a 35-33 lead with 1:29 remaining in the third quarter on Anthony's first touchdown. But the Gladiators answered on the ensuing drive to regain the lead, which they didn't relinquish to finish their inaugural game with a victory. After Anthony gave the Dragons the lead, the Gladiators out-scored New York 28-14 in the game's final 16 minutes.
Leading the way for the Gladiators was QB Raymond Philyaw. He was
18-of-23 for 240 yards, five touchdowns and one interception.
Philyaw's favorite receiver in the game was Otis Amey, who finished with 101 yards and two touchdowns. Amey also scored a rushing touchdown.
Davey was pressured all night and was sacked four times - twice by both DL Karon Riley and DL Joe Minucci. DL Bryant Shaw made a crucial fumble recovery in the fourth quarter to turn the ball over to the Gladiators.
The Dragons will play in their home opener on Sunday, March 9 at 3:00pm as they host the Kansas City Brigade.
To purchase your 2008 New York Dragons tickets, call 1-866-AFL-TIXX, email ticketinfo@newyorkdragons.com or log on to www.newyorkdragons.com!
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