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AFL Cleveland Gladiators

Gladiators Win Season Finale in Dramatic Fashion, 60-54

July 21, 2012 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Cleveland Gladiators News Release


CLEVELAND - Dominick Goodman's one-handed catch off the rebound net as time expired, gave the Gladiators a 60-54 victory over the Chicago Rush in front of 7,386 fans at Quicken Loans Arena on Saturday night. The final play started with just 0.8 seconds left on the clock. With the win, the Gladiators close the 2012 season at 8-10 and snap a two-game losing streak.

Gladiators quarterback Matt Bassuener, who replaced John Dutton to start the second half, connected with Goodman on the final play. Goodman and Robert Redd were in the area for the pass play, which was designed to rebound off the net. Goodman was on his back, reached out and caught the ball one-handed just before it almost hit the ground.

Dutton and Bassuener combined to finish 24-of-43 for 306 yards, five touchdowns and two interceptions. Despite having the winning catch, Goodman finished with just seven catches for 69 yards and two scores. Carlese Franklin had a game-high 146 yards on nine catches and two scores.

Trailing by one point with 0:47 left in the game, Levy Brown intercepted Rush quarterback Luke Drone on fourth-and goal. Brown returned the interception 52 yards for the touchdown and with the ensuing two-point conversion, the Gladiators held a 54-47 lead. Drone then connected with Reggie Gray for 38 yards with just nine seconds left, tying the game at 54.

With the game tied, the Gladiators' winning drive was two plays for 33 yards, ending with the touchdown.

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