Utah Blaze Ends Barnstormers Winning Streak
Published on April 21, 2012 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Iowa Barnstormers News Release
Salt Lake City, UT - The Iowa Barnstormers, winners of two straight, had their streak come to an abrupt halt on Friday night in Utah, as they fell 63-62 to the Blaze. Errors on special teams, which included two misplayed kickoffs and 3 missed PAT's proved to be the difference. When the final gun sounded, Iowa found themselves on the short side of a 63-62 loss, dropping them to 3-3 on the season. With the victory, Utah improves to 4-2, having defeated Iowa in both matchups this season.
Despite an efficient game from their offense, the Barnstormers defense could not contain the red hot Utah offense and QB Tommy Grady. Grady completed 27 or 39 passes for 281 yards and eight touchdowns. His favorite target on the night was WR Aaron Lesue, who hauled in 11 receptions for 166 yards and four touchdowns. All-league WR Jesse Schmidt had 4 receiving touchdowns of his own, but it wasn't quite enough for the Barnstormers.
The Barnstormers seemed to be in control of most of the play throughout the game. Iowa held a narrow 47-42 lead at the start of a wild fourth quarter that saw the lead change hands 4 times. QB J.J. Raterink connected with Schmidt for his fourth TD of the night with just over one minute remaining to put the Barnstormers in front 62-56. Iowa then attempted a risky on-side kick that was recovered by Utah deep in Iowa territory. Grady then hit WR Ernie Pierce from 9 yards out for what proved to be the game winning score.
Next week the Barnstormers return to the friendly confines of Wells Fargo Arena as they battle the San Jose SaberCats on Saturday, April 28. Join us beginning at 5:30pm in the Budweiser Tap Room for our pre-game happy hour, featuring $1.00 Budweiser and Bud Light Drafts! Great seats are still available and can be purchased at the Arena box office, online at www.theiowabarnstormers.com or by calling 515.633.2255.
Arena Football League Stories from April 21, 2012
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- Follow Tonight's Sharks Game Live - Jacksonville Sharks
- Utah Blaze Ends Barnstormers Winning Streak - Iowa Barnstormers
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