Wranglers Get Shocked in Spokane, Lose 42-14
August 3, 2008 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Austin Wranglers News Release
SPOKANE, WA-Beginning the first round of the 2008 af2 playoffs, the Austin Wranglers traveled to Spokane, Washington to take on the first place Shock in front of a packed arena. The Wranglers looked to get their first playoff win after being selected to the post season for only the second time in team history. Despite a first half battle, with powerhouse defensive performances by both teams, the Wranglers lost their momentum in the second half, and ended their 2008 season in a 42-14 loss.
Despite two potent offenses, Austin and Spokane combined for only 21 first half points. Austin's leading receiver John Roberson, who had 35 touchdown receptions during the regular season, was limited to only one reception for three yards without a touchdown in the first half. For Spokane, WR Raul Vijil, who also had 35 touchdown receptions during the regular season, was limited to four catches without a touchdown in the first half.
Spokane responded on their first drive of the second half with a 5-yard touchdown reception by Raul Vijil that capped off a 4 play 40-yard scoring drive. Vijil, who was selected as the Schutts Offensive Player of the Game, led the team in receptions (10) and yardage (151 all-purpose).
It was Spokane's defense that kept them in the game, limiting Austin's QB Andy Hall to 153 yards total yards despite averaging 274.5 yards/game during the regular season. Hall, who was under pressure all night long, threw two interceptions that landed in the hands of DB Sergio Gilliam. Austin's leading receiver John Roberson was limited to only four total receptions for 43 yards without a touchdown. WR Sean Henley and Mel Long led the Wranglers offensive attack with seven receptions a piece (that led the team) and a combined 100 yards receiving.
Although the Wrangler's season ended in Spokane on Saturday night, this season has been one of the best for Austin. Coming off a 4-12 2007 season, the Wranglers looked to get back on track in 2008, beginning their first campaign in the af2 league. Led by head coach Ben Bennett, the Wranglers have battled back, after beginning this season 0-3, to earn only the second playoff berth in team history. The Austin Wranglers would like to thank all of the fans and the Central Texas community for helping make this 2008 season one of the best!
2009 Season Tickets are currently on sale and start as low as $100. Purchase your season tickets today to reserve the best seats in the house as well as all the benefits of being a season ticket holder such as: Free ticket exchange, invitation to exclusive season ticket holder events, discounts on merchandise and additional tickets, and much more! Call the Wranglers ticket office today at 512.339.3939 to reserve your 2009 season tickets!
arenafootball2 Stories from August 3, 2008
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- Dusters earn 65-62 upset win against defending ArenaCup Champions - Amarillo Venom
- Wranglers Get Shocked in Spokane, Lose 42-14 - Austin Wranglers
- Wranglers Get Shocked in Spokane, Lose 42-14 - Austin Wranglers
- Spokane moves on to the second round - Spokane Shock
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