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Arena Football:
Offensive Firepower Helps Atlantic City Beat Staten Island
Cardsharks QB Racioppi Throws 7 Touchdowns

Monday, May 10, 2004

By Matthew Gionta
Atlantic City Cardsharks Correspondent

The CardSharks improved their record to 2-0 at Boardwalk Hall on Saturday night with a 57-36 win over the Staten Island Xtreme. Aided by the arm of Quarterback Tony Racioppi, the CardSharks amassed over 300 yards of total offense. The CardSharks improved to 2-4 on the season, while the Xtreme fell to 1-5.

The passing game carried the CardSharks once again. Quarterback Tony Racioppi threw for 276 yards and 7 touchdowns, while only being sacked one time. Wide Receiver Greg Muckerson led the team in receptions, with 9 on the night, including 2 for touchdowns. Eric Magrini hauled in 8 catches of his own, with 3 coming for touchdowns. Rocco DeMaise, who was featured at running back, wide receiver, and kick returner, gave the ‘Sharks another stellar effort. DeMaise finished the night with 2 touchdowns on the ground, 2 touchdowns in the air, and 257 all-purpose yards.

Kicker Matt Magrone kicked 3 field goals for the Xtreme, and Quarterback Akili Roberson led the team in rushing with 42 yards and 1 touchdowns.

The CardSharks came into the game worried about the athleticism of Staten Island Quarterback Akili Roberson. “We knew we really had to put pressure on Roberson,” stated General Manager and Head Coach Mike Siani. “And that’s what we did…we really harassed him tonight.”

The CardSharks are on the road again next week, taking on the Evansville Blue Cats in Indiana. Atlantic City will come home to Boardwalk Hall on Sunday, May 23rd to play the Lexington Horsemen with a special 2:05 PM start time.

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