The Ron James era of Pittsburgh Power football began Saturday night with an exciting 48-47 victory over the San Jose SaberCats. In true arena football fashion, the game came down to basically the last play as the Sabercats (2-1) went for a two-point conversion and failed.
Pittsburgh’s defense came to play today, forcing three interceptions, a fumble and a turnover-on downs while holding the SaberCats to 40 offensive points. San Jose added another special team’s touchdown with a net recovery on a kickoff. James Bryant had several hurries and a sack.
Prechae Rodriguez had another stellar game for the Power (1-1), hauling in nine catches for 91 yards and four touchdowns including a few which should draw some consideration for the Cutter’s Catch Of The Week. Tommy Grady avoided the costly interceptions this time around and finished with 182 yards and five passing touchdowns plus a score on the ground.
The Power once again struggled in the second half to score points but this time they had enough in the tank to hold on for the victory. They don’t give style points for wins, all that matters is getting the win and the Power earned a big win over a San Jose team that most experts around the league are penciling into the National Conference Championship game already.
Coach James spoke after the game about how his team has to earn the right to win. He also spoke of how important it is to move on to preparing for the next game regardless of the previous results. I saw a young hungry Power team show up early in the game and they also battled some adversity with injuries to Rodriguez and Virgil Gray along with a few unfortunate bounces (net recovery TD and an onsides kick by San Jose) to get a much needed win.
Pittsburgh will travel to San Antonio (0-3) on April 4th.
Photo Credit: Pittsburgh Sports Fanatics/Facebook
