Barnstormers Drop Home Opener vs. Spokane

Saturday April 6, 2013

 Iowa Now Stands at 2-1 on the Season

Des Moines, Iowa – The Iowa Barnstormers attempt to start the season 3-0 for the first time in franchise history came to an abrupt halt Friday night as they fell to the Spokane Shock by a 66-43 score. With the loss, Iowa falls to 2-1 on the season, while Spokane finishes their 3 week road trip with a perfect 3-0 record.

The Barnstormers fell behind early as they struggled offensively throughout the first half. Spokane jumped out to a quick 7-0 lead, marking the first time Iowa had trailed all season. The Barnstormers found themselves behind 14-6 at the end of the first quarter and 28-9 at the end of the half. Spokane QB Erik Meyer was a star for the third consecutive week, completing 24 of 34 passes for 330 yards and 9 touchdowns. Iowa attempted a second half rally, cutting the lead to just 12 points at one point, but three turnovers proved to be too much to overcome on this night.

The lone bright spot for the Barnstormers was the play of WR Marcus Harris. Making his professional debut, Harris shined with 4 catches for 121 yards including a 41 yard touchdown. Meyer distributed his 9 touchdowns to 4 different receivers, including Kamar Jordan who had a game-high 137 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns.

The Shock now head back home for their home opener, Friday April 12. The Barnstormers remain home for a second straight week, when the Philadelphia Soul come to town next Saturday, April 13. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:05pm and the game will be aired nationally on the CBS Sports Network. Tickets for all remaining home games are now available for purchase at the Wells Fargo Arena box office, by calling the Barnstormers at 515.633.2255 online at www.theiowabarnstormers.com.

Post-Game Awards

Russell Athletics Offensive Player of the Game: Erik Meyer, Spokane

Riddell Defensive Player of the Game: Terrance Sanders, Spokane

J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Game: Kamar Jordan, Spokane

Cutters Catch of Game: Marcus Harris (Iowa) 41 yard TD catch in 3rd quarter

AFL Highlight of the Game: Arvall Nelson (Spokane) TD catch off of wall in 4th quarter