Roanoke pulls off improbable 45-43 victory
June 22, 2002 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Roanoke Steam News Release
Roanoke, VA - Tacoma Fontaine pulled in six catches for 143 yards, including a miraculous reception on a tipped ball with 7.5 seconds remaining, and the Roanoke Steam pulled off the improbable, come-from-behind victory over the Carolina Rhinos, 45-43.
The Rhinos, despite losing five games entering the contest, were highly impressive in the opening half, outscoring the Steam 34-19. Starting QB Caleb Slover, who did not play two weeks ago versus Roanoke due to injury, connected with OS Nick Johnson on several occasions. Johnson finished the game with 14 catches for 181 yards.
But Roanoke's defense upped the intensity in the second half, led by DL Jose White and DE Abdallah Wiggins. Added pressure on Slover led to two Roanoke interceptions, including a key pick by DS Jykine Bradley on a late drive by the Rhinos.
The Steam saw another mid-stream change at quarterback, as Mike Volarvich spelled starter Michael Thomas at the start of the second half. Volarvich finished the game 6-for-9 for 119 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Roanoke took their first lead of the game with 5:14 remaining, when QB Mike Volarvich connected with James Everage for a 28 yard TD pass. Everage finished with two touchdown receptions.
WR/LB Tacoma Fontaine was voted Offensive MVP of the game. In addition to his 6 catches, Fontaine rushed three times for 47 yards and two touchdowns.
DS Jykine Bradley was voted ADT Defensive Player of the game. OL/DL Toby Champion was voted Ironman of the game.
The win kept Roanoke's playoff chances alive and moved their record to 6-6 on the campaign. Carolina fell to 2-9 with the loss.
Roanoke will be in action next Saturday at 7:30 pm in the Roanoke Civic Center, as they take on the 10-1 Augusta Stallions.
arenafootball2 Stories from June 22, 2002
- Roanoke pulls off improbable 45-43 victory - Roanoke Steam
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