The Rush (4-2) fell to the Kansas City Command (2-4) in front of 7,310 fans on Friday night at the Allstate Arena.Despite gaining momentum early in the first quarter when QB Russ Michna and Reggie Gray connected on a 10 yard touchdown pass, costly turnovers caused the Rush to suffer their first divisional loss of the season.
“With five turnovers, three fumbled snaps and two fumbled kicks on special teams you cannot win games,” said Head Coach Bob McMillen. “I love our team and their passion but you cannot win with that level of inconsistency.”
The Command, led by former Rush QB JJ Raterink and WR Steven Savoy, scored 17 unanswered points to end the first half and never looked back. Raterink threw for five touchdowns and was 27 for 36 with 286 yards in the game.The Rush offense recorded a season-low 191 yards, and struggled to maintain consistency throughout the game. Michna was 15 for 26 and totaled 163 yards with four touchdowns. Reggie Gray, took over kick return duties in the second half and recorded a 55 yard kick return for his 16th touchdown of the season.Johnie Kirton recorded 59 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns while continuing to maintain his dominating presence on the offense this season.Rush DB Jason Simpson again led the defense. He recorded 9.5 tackles and two interceptions during the game and was named Defensive Player of the Game. Simpson now leads the team with six interceptions this season. Defensive lineman, Joe Clermond contributed to the score with a 43 yard fumble recovery for a touchdown in the second quarter.The Rush are set to retire Head Coach Bob McMillen’s jersey and take on the New Orleans VooDoo (1-5) at the Allstate Arena next Saturday, April 30th at 7:05 p.m.