Phoenix Takes Down Gladiators
by Amy Joyner
Phoenix WR Dave Garza makes another tough catch against Gladiator defense
From the initial kickoff, both teams were back and forth on possession until Phoenix QB Shane Jurasek hit WR Dave Garza in the end zone for Missoula's first 6 on the board. Kicker Mark Spencer added his single and the teams went into the second quarter with Great Falls showing zero.
The score remained 7-0, Phoenix, until Jason Riggs for the Gladiators pushed over the goal line from the one. With declined penalty of roughing the kicker, Great Falls kept their extra point, evening the score at 7-7 with just over 8 minutes to go in the half.
Right up until the second-half whistle, penalties and turnovers were abundant for both teams. For the Phoenix, their two turnovers were both fumbles for a loss. They also lost 48 total yards from their nine penalties.
With nearly 5 minutes remaining in the 3rd, Jurasek hit WR Tyler Boaz on a 4-yard toss into the end zone. Extra point good, and the score is 14-7, Phoenix ahead.
The next score came on a 38 yard pass to Dave Garza, that wasn't, but was, topped off by an extra point that didn't clear the field goal on first attempt. But a Great Falls penalty forced a successful re-kick. Phoenix 21, Gladiators 7.
As the 4th quarter wrapped up, penalties and turnovers continutued to plague the both teams. A 4th down turnover on downs at the 11-yard line brought the ball back to the Phoenix who wrapped up the game at 21 - 7.
Next Saturday, the Phoenix will take on the Bitterroot Blaze during the "Rally Through The Valley," the most anticipated game of the season. All game tickets will be $8. People wearing Phoenix apparel - hats, shirts, sweatshirts or sweatpants - will receive a $2 admission discount. As always, one child 12 or under is admitted free with a paid adult.