Soul Down But Not Out
July 16, 2018 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Philadelphia Soul News Release
PHILADELPHIA, PA - The Philadelphia Soul dropped their home game of the home-and-home Playoff Series as they fell to the Baltimore Brigade at the Wells Fargo Center by the score of 45-57 in front of 8,164 fans. Thanks to the new playoff format, the Soul can still advance to ArenaBowl XXXI despite the loss, as the Soul need to win by at least 13 against the Brigade this week. The Soul won three games during the regular season by more than 13 points and they shaved 15 points off the deficit to conclude Game 1. Although it's impossible to predict this week's outcome, one thing is certain, the Soul are ready to fight to the end on their road to a "3-peat."
To overcome the point differential, the Soul defense will have to force the Brigade offense into mistakes and turnovers. DB Torez Jones was able to capitalize on a mistake by QB Randy Hippeard in Game 1, returning an interception for a touchdown. In order to advance, he and the rest of the defense will have to make those types of plays more common in Game 2. Over the course of five matchups with the Brigade this season, the Soul have only forced five turnovers (1 forced fumble, 1 interception, 3 turnovers on downs) and sacked Hippeard seven times. Every possession will be critical as the Soul look to punch their ticket to ArenaBowl XXXI. Offensively in Game 1, there was not much to write home about for the Soul, with the lone bright spot being WR Darius Prince. He dominated the stat sheet collecting four touchdowns and 128 yards on 11 receptions, earning himself Offensive Player of the Game honors. For the Soul to have a shot, he will need to have another big game, and get some help from the rest of the receiving corps.
"Last night was a tough one, but we'll get right back to work and focus on Game 2," said Head Coach Clint Dolezel. "We're still playing, which means we've got a shot and that's all you can ask for."
The Soul will try to ArenaBowl XXXI on Friday, July 20th as they head to Baltimore for Game 2. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. and the game will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network and 97.5 The Fanatic. Fans can "Roll With the Soul" to Baltimore on the Fan Bus Trip, sponsored by Sabre On Point. Round-trip transportation and a game ticket is included for only $50 and the first 40 fans receive a commemorative t-shirt. Seats can be purchased at www.philadelphiasoul.com/bustrip.
Arena Football League Stories from July 16, 2018
- Soul Down But Not Out - Philadelphia Soul
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