Spokane Earns "Team Win" Over Talons, 63-60
March 18, 2012 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Spokane Shock News Release
Spokane, WA: The Spokane Shock defeated the Talons tonight in San Antonio for their first road win of the season, and the team's first win under the Andy Olson era, 63-60.
After a shaky start, Spokane found themselves in a 14-0 hole after a turnover on their first possession of the game. But Spokane came roaring back and posted 21-straight unanswered points.
QB Adam Froman's first scoring drive of the game was capped off by an 18-yard completion to WR Adron Tennell that pulled Spokane back into the game. On the ensuing drive, DL Jeremy Geathers forced a San Antonio fumble that was recovered by rookie-Shock LB Terence Moore. Three plays later, Spokane tied the game up with a seven-yard touchdown pass to WR Justin Ore. San Antonio's following drive came up empty after Spokane's defense came up with their second stop of the game, thanks to a turnover on downs. Spokane's offense capitalized on the opportunity with another touchdown pass from Froman to Tennell that gave the Shock their first lead of the game, 21-14.
The Shock and the Talons continued to exchange scores until San Antonio picked off Froman for the second time in the game. Talons QB Aaron Garcia put together a seven-play 49-yard drive that was capped off by with a 3-yard TD completion to WR Jason Willis and stretched their lead to two scores, 41-28.
But Spokane was not done yet. On the final play of the first half, rookie Paul Stephens scooped up the ensuing kick-off and returned it 37-yards for a touchdown pulling the Shock back to a six-point deficit.
Spokane's defense kept the pressure on Garcia's offense producing one sack and six QB hurries. The pressure from Spokane's defensive line also forced some errant Garcia throws and allowed Shock DB Patrick Stoudamire to end the night with two interceptions, in his first start of the season.
Offensively, Froman finished his first start completing 71% of his passes for 227 yards and six touchdown passes. Additionally, Froman scored Spokane's final touchdown of the night on a 36-yard run that put the Shock up for good late in the fourth quarter. WR Brandon Thompkins led the Shock receiving corps with nine receptions for 97 yards and two scores. WR Adron Tennell was close behind with eight receptions for 80 yards and two touchdowns. WR Justin Ore and WR Steven Black each chipped in with a touchdown.
Garcia finished his night by completing 60% of his passes for 311 yards with six touchdowns and two interceptions. WR Jomo Wilson led the Talons' receiving corps snagging ten receptions for 128 yards with three touchdowns.
Spokane will enjoy a bye next week but will host the San Jose SaberCats (1-0) for the NFL Networks Arena Game of the Week on Friday, March 30th. Great seats are still available and can be purchased by contacting TicketsWest.
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