(Prescott, AZ) The Arizona Rattlers journeyed to Prescott, Arizona, to take on the Northern Arizona Wranglers, seeking redemption for their previous playoff loss.
The 2024 season-opener between in-state rivals ultimately resulted in the Rattlers securing a riveting 51-40 victory over the Wranglers.
FIRST HALF
The first half of the matchup started off with the Wranglers on the board first. However, the Rattlers wasted no time to show their defensive strength. Harold Love made a huge play and buried Josh Jones in the endzone for a safety, swinging the momentum in the Rattlers favor. Building on this momentum, Sneed delivered a pinpoint touchdown pass to Glen Gibbons Jr. to push the Rattlers forward – and score the first touchdown of the 2024 season.
The pressure of the Rattlers’ defense didn’t stop in the second quarter. A crucial play was made when the Rattlers forced a fumble from Wranglers’ quarterback Josh Jones and the Rattlers gained possession. Despite an intense back-and-forth exchange, the Rattlers maintained their composure and executed their game plan effectively.
With 35 seconds left in the 1st half, NAZ challenged the play – but the ruling on the field confirmed the play was legal, ultimately giving the Rattlers the momentum needed. As halftime approached, the Rattlers held a commanding lead, with the scoreboard reading 37-26, with touchdown scores by Shannon Brooks, and Jamal Miles – perfect finishes by rookie Kicker, Dawson Evitts. The Rattlers’ performance on both ends of the field set the stage for an exciting second half.
SECOND HALF
During the game, The Wranglers made an aggressive effort to intimidate the Rattlers in the third quarter with a burst of energy following the break. Despite Shannon Brooks’ fumble, he was able to recover the ball and score a touchdown, showcasing his impressive agility and resilience. While the Wranglers efforts were ultimately unsuccessful, the Rattlers were able to make a comeback in the final quarter with the Kettle to Gibbons Jr. connection, resulting in a score that put them on the board.
In the game, the young Wranglers team was not able to surpass the speed and coverage of Rattlers’ defensive back Dillion Winfrey. Winfrey intercepted a crucial pass in the final minute of the game. As the clock ticked, the Rattlers held firm and preserved their lead. When the final whistle blew, the Rattlers had won the game with a hard-fought 51-40 victory.
Get ready for an exciting game as the Rattlers return to the field on Sunday, March 24th at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, AZ to face off against the Vegas Knight Hawks at 3:05 PM.
Press Release courtesy of the Arizona Rattlers – Alexa Coronado
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