Kings Claim Victory in Season Opener against New Jersey Flight
March 19, 2018 - American Arena League (AAL)
Rochester Kings News Release
With 2.9 seconds left in regulation, the Rochester Kings found themselves backed up against a wall in their season opener against the New Jersey Flight. As the Flight lined up to kick a potential game-winning field goal, Kings' head coach Derrick Dyer made a crucial decision.
"I iced the kicker," said Dyer. "I called time-out to make sure he had to try it again, and it worked out for us." The Flight missed the field goal, driving the game into overtime and giving the Kings a second chance to take the game.
At the start of overtime, the Kings received the ball first. Wide receiver Eddie Jackson then scored the go-ahead touchdown on a post route from Quarterback Duell Smith along the right sideline.
"We knew what defense they were in, so I knew I was going to be open and I knew that the ball was coming," said Jackson. "I just had to secure the catch and get my team up." The Kings Kicker Tyler Brew knocked through the extra point, giving the Kings a 40-33 lead.
The Flight responded by scoring a touchdown, narrowing the King's lead to 40-39, but instead of attempting to kick an extra point to tie the game and continue overtime, Flight coach Jack Grande decided to go for a two-point conversion and the win.
Tensions were high as the Flight lined up from the King's two yard line with the game in the balance. Flight Quarterback Stephen Panasuk backed up to pass and threw the ball to the back right corner of the end zone where it was intercepted by King's defensive back Jimmy Hutto, securing the win for Rochester.
In the end, the Kings were able to start off their season with a win and hope to continue the trend.
They will get their next chance at victory this Saturday, March 24 at the Bill Gray's Iceplex when they take on the Carolina Cowboys at 7pm.
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- Kings Claim Victory in Season Opener against New Jersey Flight - Rochester Kings
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