GLENDALE, Ariz. -- The Rattlers emerged victorious with a final score of 55-53 against a now 0-8 Duke City Gladiators. It was a too-close-for-comfort win, but the team got it done. 

The game kicked off with a strong start for the Duke City Gladiators, who scored an early touchdown through Gonzales. The Gladiators extended their lead with a successful deuce. However, a setback occurred when their quarterback was sacked at the 20-yard line on a crucial third down. The Rattlers responded with a field goal, bringing the score to 3-9. A series of incomplete passes and penalties characterized the rest of the quarter, with both teams struggling to gain momentum.

In the second quarter, the Gladiators pulled further ahead. However, Sneed passed to Jackson for a touchdown, and with a successful extra point, the score was 10-16 in favor of the Rattlers. Both teams faced penalties and incomplete passes, but the Rattlers found their momentum with a touchdown pass to Corey Reed Jr., tying the game at 19-19 after a deuce by Dawson Evitts. A series of plays led to another Rattlers touchdown by Reed Jr., bringing the halftime score to 26-19.

In the third quarter, the Rattlers started with a kickoff and scored a touchdown through Shannon Brooks, increasing their lead to 33-19. Despite the Gladiators' efforts, including a field goal and a touchdown, the Rattlers maintained their advantage with strong defensive plays and another touchdown by Corey Reed Jr., ending the quarter with a score of 41-31.

The fourth quarter was a rollercoaster. It began with a Rattlers touchdown by Jamal Miles, extending their lead to 55-37. The Gladiators fought back with a touchdown and a successful two-point conversion, narrowing the gap to 55-45. There were several dramatic plays, including a crucial sack by Rattlers' Traevaris Ferrell and several penalties against the Gladiators. Despite the Gladiators' final push with a touchdown and a successful two-point conversion bringing the score to 55-53, the Rattlers managed to hold on for a narrow victory.

The team will travel next weekend to face the Jacksonville Sharks on Saturday, June 1. After playing two away games in the next couple of weeks, the Rattlers return home on June 15. Secure your tickets now!