A Win is a Win is a Win for Detroit
Neal Ruhl
Tuesday February 24, 2004
Fury QB Andy Kelly took home the game MVP as he completed 24 of 36 passes for 264 yards and 3 touchdowns. Kelly also had two interceptions, but one of those was on a miscommunication with his receiver Jeff Russell. The other came from what could have possibly been the worst call in the history of sports by the officials. Firebirds DB Scotty Lindsey was given credit for an interception while he was literally lying on the sideline. “We got some unfortunate calls, but we were able to make plays in the second half,” said Kelly. “That’s two weeks in a row that our defense has played well. Anytime you hold a team to that many field goal tries, you have done a good job.”
Defensive specialist Ron Carpenter, defensive player of the game, shared Kelly’s views on his defense’s effort. “We are playing well right now. What we want to do now is rest up, and go get ‘em again next game.”
Despite turning the ball over three times in the first half, Detroit carried a 14-13 lead into the locker room at the half. That was not lost on Indiana starting QB Tony Zimmerman, who struggled to a 4 of 10 passing day for 28 yards. “It’s frustrating because we had some opportunities,” said Zimmerman. He was later replaced by back up Adrian McPhearson who made his Arena League debut. McPhearson gave the Firebirds their only lead of the game in the second quarter on a scintillating 13-yard run that showcased his athletic ability.
“He was tough to prepare for because his style of play is something that you can’t simulate in practice,” said Tom Luginbill, who earned his second win as a head coach in the Arena League.
The Fury enjoy a bye next week. After that, they travel to Denver to take on John Elway’s Colorado Crush on March 4th at the Pepsi Center. Indiana also continues divisional play when they host the Chicago Rush at the Conseco Fieldhouse on February 29.
Unleash the Fury
Kelly, not noted as being fleet of foot, scored a rushing touchdown for the second consecutive week…Pittsburgh Steelers QB Tommy Maddox was in attendance at tonight’s game signing autographs for the fans; he also did the pre game coin toss.
Neal Ruhl lives in the Metro Detroit Area where he has covered the Detroit Lions as well as the Motor City Bowl.
