The Arizona Rattlers returned to Phoenix Friday night at US Airways Center in front of a capacity crowd of 14,994. Unfortunately their home debut came up just a bit short as they fell to the Chicago Rush 70-56. Trailing for most of the game, the Rattlers had a huge opportunity with just over three minutes left when Rattlers DB SERGIO GILLIAM intercepted Chicago quarterback Russ Michna and returned the ball to the seven-yard line to set the Rattlers up for a potential game tying score. However, QB NICK DAVILA was picked off at the five-yard line by defensive back DeJuan Alfonso. Alfonso then returned the interception 48-yards for the game-clinching touchdown, thus ending the Rattlers hopes of a comeback. Davila, who threw two interceptions that were returned for touchdowns, finished 34 of 54 for 346 yards and eight touchdowns. "We didn't perform how we were supposed to," said WR JJ McKELVEY. Too many small mistakes, too many turnovers." Down 42-28 late in the second quarter McKelvey scored on a one yard touchdown pass from Davila with no time left on the clock to cut the Rush led to 42-35 at the half. McKelvey finished the game with twelve receptions for 110 yards and four touchdowns. The Rattlers will play their second straight game at home next Friday, April 23 against the Tulsa Talons.
