Barnstormers Fall To Philadelphia 54-43

Sunday April 14, 2013

 Iowa Now Stands at 2-2 on the Season

Des Moines, Iowa – The Iowa Barnstormers dropped another hard fought battle on Saturday night as they fell to the Philadelphia Soul by a score of 54-43. The game was played in front of a Wells Fargo Arena crowd of 7,743 along with a National television audience watching on the CBS Sports Network. With the loss the Barnstormers are now 2-2 on the season, while Philadelphia improves to 2-1.

Just as they did last week, the Barnstormers fell behind early as they struggled offensively throughout the first half. Philadelphia took the ball and scored on their first play from scrimmage, when QB Dan Raudabaugh connected with WR Tiger Jones on a 33 yard touchdown. After the Soul added a Field Goal, Iowa responded when QB J.J. Raterink hit newly signed Jesse Schmidt on a 36 yard score to cut the lead to 9-6.

Trailing 18-6 in the second quarter the Barnstormers rallied as Raterink connected again with Schmidt for a score. On the ensuing Philadelphia possession, Barnstormers DB Errick McIntosh intercepted Raudabaugh and returned it for a 23 yard touchdown to give Iowa their first lead of the night at 19-18. Philly regained the lead 25-19 but the Barnstormers got within 3 at Kicker Phil Marfuggi nailed a 50 yard field goal to end the first half.

The Barnstormers took a brief 29-25 lead early in the third quarter, but then the Soul turned up their defense, stopping Iowa on consecutive possessions. Philadelphia sealed the win with two more fourth quarter touchdowns from Raudabaugh to Jones.

The Barnstormers now hit the road again next Friday night when they battle the Jacksonville Sharks in Jacksonville, FL. Iowa returns home on Friday, April 26 when the Chicago Rush comes to town. Kickoff is set for 7:05pm. Tickets are 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: Tiger Jones, Philadelphia

Riddell Defensive Player of the Game: Bryan Robinson, Philadelphia

J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Game: Joe Goosby, Philadelphia

Cutters Catch of Game: Ryan McDaniel (PHI), 25 yard TD catch.

AFL Highlight of the Game: Iowa DB Errick McIntosh Interception return for TD