After a bit of a rough start, the Wranglers have hit their stride. On April 20, Austin got their first win over the Rio Grande Valley Dorados. This past weekend, the Wranglers showed what they are capable of by demolishing the Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz, 57-27.
The previously vulnerable Wranglers defense was the story of the night with Demetrie McCray grabbing three interceptions. Austin also sacked the Yard Dawgz quarterback, Evan Gray, five times to go along with the three interceptions.
Also encouraging was the success of the Wranglers offense. Newly acquired quarterback Andy Hall threw for more than 300 yards and six touchdowns. Their 57-point outburst was the first time all season the Wranglers scored more than 50 points. Leading receiver John Roberson scored four more touchdowns and increased his season total to 13.
The Wranglers kicker, Keita Iizuka, made his first field goal of the season. Iizuka was signed after an open tryout and won the job during week two of the season.
Next up for the Wranglers is the South Georgia Wildcats, who are 3-2 on the season. The Wildcats are scoring roughly 50 points a game, but are giving up just about as much as they score. The Wranglers/Wildcats matchup takes place this Sunday, May 4 at the Erwin Center. Get your tickets now.
With Austin’s newly found defense, and ever-improving offense, maybe the Wranglers can salvage their season after their horrid beginning.
This article appears in May 2 • 2008.