CLEVELAND—The Rush (3-1) failed to continue its undefeated start to the season as the Cleveland Gladiators (3-0) handed the team their first loss 55-48 Saturday afternoon in front of a crowd of 8,305 at the Gladiators’ home opener.

“Our guys played hard, but we had a few mistakes throughout the game that hurt us,” said Head Coach Bob McMillen.

The game started quickly as Gladiators’ QB Kurt Rocco connected with WR Troy Bergeron for a 23 yard touchdown pass just three minutes into the first quarter. Rocco and Bergeron connected for five additional touchdowns in what became a common theme throughout the game.The Rush couldn’t defend Bergeron at all during the game and that along with key mistakes cost them a game that was winable.The Gladiators’ offense proved to be too powerful for the Rush to contain. Rocco was 21 of 37 passing with 320 yards and 8 touchdowns. Bergeron led the Gladiators’ wide receivers with 187 yards receiving and 6 touchdowns.Rush QB Russ Michna went 21 of 35 passing and totaled 235 yards with 5 passing touchdowns as well as a rushing touchdown. Reggie Gray was Michna’s favorite target throughout the game and accumulated 144 receiving yards with 3 touchdowns.DB Vic Hall led the Rush defense with a season high 10 tackles and was named Defensive Player of the Game for the second time this season. DB Jason Simpson also contributed on defense with five tackles. JLB Kelvin Morris also contributed on both sides of the ball while scoring a one yard touchdown reception which helped him earn the title of Ironman of the Game.

“I am not taking anything away from Cleveland. They have a great football team here,” said McMillen. “We will take a look at this game and make the necessary adjustments to improve for our game against Iowa.”

The Rush have a bye before traveling to Iowa to take on the Barnstormers on Saturday, April 16th at 7:05 p.m.