Sports stats



AFL Arizona Rattlers

Rattlers Fall Hard to Storm

March 28, 2003 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Arizona Rattlers News Release


TAMPA, FL- The Arizona Rattlers appeared to have control of the game after 30 minutes, holding a 32-28 advantage at halftime. The second half was a different story however, as the Tampa Bay Storm exploded for 40 points in the second half while holding the Rattlers to only seven, as Arizona fell 68-39.

"They just dominated us upfront on both sides of the ball. They controlled us offensively and defensively," said a subdued Rattler Head Coach Danny White. The Rattlers (4-5) fell under .500 for the first time since June 12, 1993. Tampa Bay improved to 7-2, and has won six consecutive games.

Storm QB John Kaleo was 14-21 for 276 yards and eight touchdowns. His counterpart Sherdrick Bonner was 21-31 for 248 yards and four touchdowns. Hunkie Cooper led the Rattlers with seven catches for 84 yards. Rookie Tom Pace intercepted his first career pass in the second quarter and returned it 15 yards for the touchdown.

Arizona turned the ball over four times, leading to four touchdowns for Tampa Bay. Bonner was intercepted on the game's first drive, and the Storm took advantage to take the early 6-0 lead. The Rattlers uncharacteristically fumbled three times, one of which was returned 45 yards by Keita Crespina for a touchdown.

The Storm had pressure on Arizona quarterbacks all night. Bonner was sacked once, and Chris Hixson, brought in late in the fourth, was sacked twice.

Lawrence Samuels scored three touchdowns for the Storm, his only three catches of the night.

The Rattlers now return home to battle the Orlando Predators on Sunday April 6. Kickoff is set for 3:00 PM on NBC.



Arena Football League Stories from March 28, 2003


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central