The Cleveland Gladiators spoiled the Spokane Shock's championship celebration with a 61-55 victory in front of a crowd of 10,140 fans at the Spokane Arena on Saturday night. The Gladiators start the 2011 season 1-0 while the Shock slips to 0-2 on the young season. AFL Commissioner Jerry Kurz was on hand as the Shock raised the 2010 ArenaBowl Championship banner during the pregame ceremony. Gladiators quarterback John Dutton picked up where he left off in 2010, completing 20-of-30 passes for 257 yards and six touchdowns in the win. Troy Bergeron led all players with 134 yards on eight catches and four touchdowns. Robert Redd and Victor Williams also added receiving touchdowns in the win. For the Shock, quarterback Kyle Rowley completed 29-of-45 passes for 313 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception. Markee White and Greg Orton each recorded 10 catches and combined for five receiving touchdowns for the Shock. Defensive back Levy Brown intercepted Rowley in the first quarter, leading to the first Bergeron touchdown of the year. Carlos Downey and Dutton each rushed for touchdowns in the game The Gladiators head to Tampa, Florida for their next contest to face the defending American Conference champion Storm this Sunday. The Gladiators home opener is set for SATURDAY, APRIL 2 versus the CHICAGO RUSH. Kickoff is set for 4:00 PM at Quicken Loans Arena. SINGLE-GAME TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW! For more information, visit www.clevelandgladiators.com or call 216.685.9000 today!
