AFL Cleveland Gladiators

Jacksonville defeats Cleveland, 56-42, to drop to 3-2 on the season

Published on April 23, 2011 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Cleveland Gladiators News Release


JACKSONVILLE, FL - The Cleveland Gladiators dropped their second straight contest to the Jacksonville Sharks, 56-42, to fall to 3-2 on the season. Tonight's win at Veterans Memorial Coliseum was the fifth straight for Jacksonville, improving the Sharks to 5-1 in 2011.

Kurt Rocco went 25-of-37 for 309 yards, three touchdown passes and two interceptions; while adding three rushing touchdowns. Rocco's three rushing scores marked the second straight week in which a Gladiator ran for three touchdowns, both good for second-most in a single game in franchise history. Wide receiver Robert Redd had 10 catches, two for touchdowns, and a game-high 131 yards receiving.

The Sharks were led by AFL veteran quarterback Aaron Garcia, who went 24-for-33 passing for 277 yards and six touchdowns. Garcia also rushed for one touchdown in the game. Major production came from Jacksonville wide receiver Jeron Harvey, who had 12 catches for 91 yards and three scores. Jomo Wilson caught eight passes for 108 yards and two touchdowns in the contest.

Jacksonville did not gain a lead until 3:35 left in the fourth quarter, when Garcia punched in his lone rushing touchdown. The Sharks then intercepted a Rocco pass on the ensuing possession to gain control. Garcia found Wilson for the game's final score five plays later.

Micheaux Robinson accumulated 7.5 total tackles, one interception and one fumble recovery for the Sharks, who forced three turnovers on the night. Cleveland did not force any turnovers for the first time in a game this season. Levy Brown led the Gladiators' defense with 11 total tackles. Rookie Earl Heyman had a sack in the second quarter, which accounted for the Gladiators' second safety of the season.

Touchdowns were scored on the first seven possessions by both teams combined. There were six points throughout the game in which the score was tied. After 29 first half points, Cleveland was held to just 13 in the second half.

The Cleveland Gladiators return to The Q on Friday, April 29 when they host the Tulsa Talons for Military Appreciation Night at 7:30 pm! All current and former members of the United States Military will receive up to $10 off ticket prices by showing their military ID at the Box Office. Fans are also encouraged to submit a photo of their military man or woman to military@clevelandgladiators.com for a special video board tribute to those brave soldiers who risk their lives for our country.

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