EXPRESS TAME WILDCATZ IN HOME OPENER

by GDFL MEDIA

Erie,PA-The Erie Express came into the game having never defeated the Wildcatz. They had been close in previous games losing games as close as 7-6, 9-7, 23-21 and 15-9 but never quite got over the hump. That all changed Saturday as the #2 ranked Express defeated the #5 ranked Wildcatz 25-6 to remain undefeated on the season. The Express won the toss and deferred to the second half. Both teams went three and out in their opening possessions. Erie snapped the ball over the punters head and it was picked up and ran in by a Wildcatz defender. The extra point was no good and the Wildcatz took the early lead 6-0 with 11:43 to play in the first.

Erie would answer back on their next possession by when running back Donte Harden found the end zone from 20 yards out. Quarterback Brandon Hanna hit receiver Corey McWilliams for the 2 point try and Erie took the lead 8-6. The Wildcatz turned the ball over on their next possession by fumbling the snap and Express linebacker Cameron Sanders recovered it on the 9 yard line.
Harden scored his second TD of the day on the next play, the 2pt try was no good and Erie led 14-6. With 1:54 remaining in the half Hanna would find McWilliams on a 4th and goal from the 18yd line. Hanna hit defensive lineman Shannon Jackson for the 2pt conversion and Erie would take a 22-6 lead into the half.

The remainder of the game was a defensive battle with both teams playing very well. Erie did find the end zone 2 more times in the second half but both scores were negated by penalties. The only score of the second half came from Adam Scarpino's 37 yard field goal. Youssef Barakat and Kameron Rubin each hauled in interceptions and Cameron Sanders and Kristopher Ford each recovered fumbles.

The Express recorded a season high 6 sacks against the Wildcatz. Erie was led on defense by All-Pro linebacker Cameron Sanders who recorded a team high 12 tackles, 1 fumble recovery and a pair of sacks.

The Express will be home again this week as they host another undefeated opponent in the Pittsburgh Buccaneers. The Bucs defeated the Explosion last week and will look to earn their first win against Erie. They come into the game 0-2 all time versus the Express. Will the third time be the charm?

Find out this Saturday at Mercyhurst University, kickoff is set for 5pm with intros starting at 4:45. Admission is $10 for adults. Concessions and restrooms will be available for the fans.

ABOUT THE GDFL

The Gridiron Developmental Football League is a Professional Developmental Football League based in Memphis, Tennessee. This League was established to provide the community with high quality sports entertainment and to provide athletes the opportunity to participate in professional sports. We are looking at partnering with national and local area businesses in our pursuit of excellence and commitment to our community. Our commitment, dedication, and vision are set on building a firm foundation for professionalism and quality. The Gridiron Developmental Football League continues to strive to provide a quality minor professional level of football throughout the United States and beyond giving area athletes and fans the opportunity be a part of history. Our organization would like to thank you for your support. We are excited about the upcoming season and look forward to “Making AN IMPACT” in our Community.

Fans can visit our website at www.gdfl.org for upcoming announcements, ticketing info, and player tryouts.