Barnstormers Drop Season Opener to Pittsburgh

Sunday March 20, 2011

Banks to Blythe Combination is Lone Bright Spot in 58-28 Loss

 Des Moines, Iowa – The Iowa Barnstormers dropped their season opener to the Pittsburgh Power on Saturday night by a score of 58-28. The score was much closer than it appeared as Iowa spent most of the first 3 quarters trailing by just one score. However a sloppy and error filled fourth quarter finished off the Barnstormers, who are now 0-1 on the season. With the victory, the Power even their record at 1-1. The win marked the first ever in team history.

The quarterback combination of Bernard Morris and Kevin McCabe threw for six touchdown passes, while fullback Josh Rue accounted for two more on the ground. Pittsburgh used a slow-paced ball control offense to keep Iowa and their dangerous receivers off the field for much of the contest. The turning point came in the 2nd quarter with the game tied 14-14. Iowa defensive back Patrick Stoudamire intercepted a Morris pass and returned it for a touchdown. However the play was called back due to an illegal procedure against the Barnstormers. Pittsburgh’s drive continued, ultimately resulting in Rue’s second touchdown, giving the Power had the lead for good.

The one bright spot for Iowa was the combination of quarterback Brad Banks and wide receiver Todd Blythe. The duo connected four times for Iowa touchdowns, accounting for every Iowa score.

The Barnstormers return home this Friday, March 25 when the defending Arena Bowl Champions the Spokane Shock come to Wellmark Field. Season tickets remain on sale for as low as $117 per seat, while individual game tickets can be purchased for any regular season game at the Wells Fargo Arena Box office or by calling the Barnstormers at 515-633-2255. For all of the latest Barnstormers information log onto www.theiowabarnstormers.com.