New York falls to Philadelphia, preps for playoffs
June 22, 2008 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
New York Dragons News Release
The New York Dragons finish the regular season 8-8 and are heading to Dallas on Friday to take on the Desperados in a first-round playoff game at 7:30 pm ET after losing to the Philadelphia Soul 59-30 at the Nassau Coliseum on Sunday afternoon. Watch the game live on ESPN.
"You have to forget about this and have a short memory," said head coach Weylan Harding. "We have to have a sense of urgency against Dallas. It looked like we weren't playing for anything to win during that game. Next week it's win or go home and we have to get our minds prepared for that."
QB Aaron Garcia left the game in the second quarter with a mild concussion and did not return, but is scheduled to start against Dallas on Friday. WR Jason Willis had to be carted off the field in the third quarter with a right ankle strain and is out for the remainder of the season.
"Jason has had a tremendous year," said Garcia. "It's hard to see someone put in all that time and then get hurt like that. Hopefully, it's not that serious, there will be a quick recovery and he'll be back out there next year."
The Philadelphia Soul had a strong defensive game, keeping the Dragons from scoring a touchdown on five drives in the first half. DB Rod Davis intercepted a pass by QB Juston Wood - filling in for Garcia - and recovered a fumble by Willis. DB Eddie Moten intercepted his first of two passes in the second quarter to help put the Soul up 42-10 at the half.
The Dragons came back in the second half, out-scoring Dallas 20-17. Prior to leaving the game, Willis provided some offensive spark, hauling in eight catches for 97 yards and one touchdown. FB/LB Idris Price and Wood each ran in a touchdown, while DB John Walker returned an interception for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. On the Soul side, QB Matt D'Orazio was 21-of-28 for 167 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. Backup QB Glenn Gauntt took over quarterback duties in the fourth quarter.
WR Chris Jackson led the Soul with nine catches and 96 yards, adding a touchdown reception. WR Larry Brackins caught five passes for 45 yards and three touchdowns. Philadelphia's win secures them the top spot in the National Conference and a first-round bye.
Catch the Dragons in their first-round playoff game on Friday at 7:30 ET on ESPN. "It's a whole new season in the playoffs," said Garcia. "Everyone goes into it with the same record. Right here in New York the Giants proved that anything can happen. Let's see if lightning strikes twice."
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Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from June 22, 2008
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