PHOENIX - The six-time World Champion Arizona Rattlers were victorious on Saturday night in Frisco, Texas in a battle against the top two teams in the IFL.

The Fighters did something no other opponent has against Arizona this season: lose by less than 20 points. They battled throughout, but ultimately Arizona prevailed to improve to a perfect 6-0 on the season. The Rattlers remain the lone undefeated team left in the IFL.

1st Half Battle

It was certainly a tale of two quarters in the first half between the league's top two teams. The first quarter was dominated by Arizona, as they led by a commanding score of 21-0 following three scores in the first 15 minutes of action. The scoring opened up on a one-yard pass from Drew Powell to Shannon Brooks to get things started, followed by two more scores from Troy Pelletier and Jamal Miles to kickstart Arizona to a 21-0 lead.

The second quarter was another story, as the Fighters battled back and outscored Arizona 21-9 in the quarter to head into halftime only down 9 points by a score of 30-21 at the half. Arizona forced a momentum-shifting safety in the second quarter to restore order. 

Key Performers 

Jamal Miles made a strong return after a one game absence with 5 catches for 68 yards and one touchdown catch. WR Troy Pelletier and RB Shannon Brooks each chipped in with a pair of touchdowns as well. Braxton Haley had a 3 receptions for 56 yards, including a 45-yard bomb from Drew Powell for a score in the third quarter. 

Battling Turnovers 

The Rattlers overcame an uncharacteristic four interception performance from quarterback Drew Powell. Powell also threw for five touchdowns and totaled 168 yards in the air along with 34 yards rushing. 

Arizona also had one lost fumble, totaling their season-high in turnovers as a team at five. In spite of the turnovers, Arizona managed to win by two scores. 

Backfield Playmakers 

The Rattlers' defensive backs were all over the field making plays on Saturday night. Kyree Woods, Davontae Merriweather and Dillion Winfrey combined for 24 total tackles between the three, along with one forced fumble, pass breakup and tackle for loss. 

The defensive activity for the Rattlers made the difference in this one, as they were able to secure key stops every time it seemed like Frisco was making a push. 

Up next? The Rattlers will travel to Tucson to take on the Sugar Skulls, who have won their last two contests and are second in the IFL in points per game.