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AFL Arizona Rattlers

Rattlers Fall to Avengers, 63-49

May 4, 2003 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Arizona Rattlers News Release


PHOENIX, AZ- The Arizona Rattlers, who had been flying high during the month of April, returned to earth on Sunday, falling to Los Angeles 63-49. Tony Graziani led the Avengers (10-4) attack, throwing for 289 yards and eight touchdowns. Chris Jackson caught ten of those passes for 172 yards and six scores. Sherdrick Bonner had another stellar game for the Rattlers (8-6), throwing for 308 yards on 22-30 passing. Bonner added seven scoring strikes.

Arizona got themselves in a hole early for the second week in a row, spotting LA a 14-0 advantage. Only a Tom Pace 35-yard TD pass with :20 left in the opening quarter prevented them from a scoreless first period. Los Angeles controlled the game from the opening kick and never looked back, scoring on nine of eleven possessions.

Arizona was again plagued by turnovers and penalties. Two fumbles and an interception assisted the Avengers offense, as did the seven penalties for 37 yards. LA got five first downs thanks to Rattler penalties. Los Angeles was a phenomenal 5-6 on third down opportunities.

The bright spot for Arizona was again Quarterback Sherdrick Bonner. The Offensive Player of the Month for April continued his brilliant season. Bonner found six different receivers, including Randy Gatewood, who pulled in 10 catches for 117 yards and three touchdowns.

The Rattlers now head to the road, taking on the Chicago Rush next Sunday from the Allstate Arena. The 12:00 Arizona time game will be televised by NBC.

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