Fast Start for Avengers in Arena Debut, 54-47

The Los Angeles Avengers made a lasting impression in their Arena Football League debut, defeating the Arizona Rattlers, 54-47, in exhibition play before 11,947 at America West Arena in Phoenix.

Despite having only six practice days, the expansion Avengers played Arizona, the defending Western Division champion, to a 14-14 standoff in the first quarter, and never trailed after taking a 20-17 lead on fullback Andy Chilcote’s two-yard run in the second quarter.

Starting quarterback Scott Semptimphelter played only the first quarter but completed three of four passes for 74 yards and a touchdown. He also ran for a score.

Former USC and Raider Todd Marinovich, who relieved Semptimphelter in the second quarter, completed nine of 15 attempts for 121 yards and two touchdowns in his first Arena game.

“Todd has tremendous athletic ability, but I’m also sure Arizona did not show us any special defenses,” Avenger Coach Stan Brock said. “It will get more complicated as we go on.”

Also having big games for Los Angeles were receivers Aman Abye, who caught seven passes for 101 yards and two touchdowns, and Aaron Frazier who caught four passes for 99 yards.