Xplorers Host Wolves in Potential ArenaCup Preview
July 14, 2005 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Memphis Xplorers News Release
Southaven, MS-The Memphis Xplorers (10-3) of the af2 look to get back to their winning ways this weekend against the number one ranked Manchester Wolves. The Xplorers have lost two games in a row for the first time since week 9 and 10 during the 2004 season.
Manchester (11-2) won as many as ten games in a row at one point, and are currently coming off a convincing win against the Wilkes-Barre Scranton Pioneers this past Friday. The Wolves won 63-36, and were led by quarterback Jake Eaton, who had 217 yards on 22 completions for six touchdowns. Eaton was the games' Offensive MVP.
Memphis hosted the Tulsa Talons last Saturday and rallied from a first half deficit of 21 points to take the lead in the third quarter. Tulsa responded with two touchdowns, making their lead ten points late in the game. Memphis got within three points, but missed a potential game-tying field goal in the closing minutes. After Tulsa got the ball back, they were able to run out the clock and walk away with the win.
"I thought we played our worst first half in two years on Saturday," said Xplorers Head Coach Danton Barto. "It was a gutsy performance by our guys making a comeback down three scores, but unfortunately we could not hang on for the win."
Terrell Adams, who had eight catches for 110 yards and two touchdowns, led the Xplorers offensive attack, and was voted the Offensive MVP of the game. A new addition to Memphis, Sále Key, added a spark to the Xplorers receiving core with four catches for 54 yards and two touchdowns. Khreem Smith was the ADT Defensive Player of the Game, adding his 14th sack of the season, and six tackles.
The loss was only the third loss on the season for Memphis. All three losses in 2005 have been by three points. "We could easily be undefeated this season," said Barto. "We have had a chance to win all these games, but seem to be running into some bad luck at the end. This team is still in great position to make a run at the ArenaCup."
Both Memphis and Manchester are in first place in their Conferences. With a win tonight, the Xplorers would not only clinch a playoff berth, but also the Mid-West Division of the National Conference. The Wolves, who play in the East Division of the American Conference, can also clinch their division with a win Saturday. The Wolves have already confirmed a spot in the postseason this year.
Game time Saturday is scheduled for 7:00pm at the DeSoto Civic Center. All Xplorers game can be heard on SportsRadio WMC, The Mighty 790 AM. Single game tickets start as low as $7 and can be purchased by calling 662-342-1755, visiting the DeSoto Civic Center box office, or by logging onto www.TicketMaster.com today. Memphis Xplorers Arena Football! Back in Black!
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