Sugar Skulls Return Home for Rematch Against Northern Arizona Wranglers
Tucson, AZ – The Sugar Skulls return to Tucson Arena for their final home game of the season on July 19, set to host in-state rivals, the Northern Arizona Wranglers. Kickoff is set for 4:30 PM MST on Sunday, July 19.
Sunday’s matchup also marks SpongeBob Night in the Boneyard, presented by Innovative Injury Solutions. Sugar Skulls fans can expect a night full of family fun as the Boneyard transforms into Bikini Bottom. Additionally, the game will feature special appearances from Tucson Roadrunners’ Adam Cracknell and FC Tucson President Jon Pearlman, who will serve as honorary co-captains.
Coming off a disappointing road loss against the Arizona Rattlers, Tucson is looking to bounce back and secure one more home win. The Wranglers are entering the matchup following a win against the New Mexico Chupacabras and are looking to defeat Tucson to continue building their win streak.
Last Week’s Loss
On Saturday, July 11, the Skulls traveled to Glendale to face in-state rivals, the Arizona Rattlers. Unfortunately, Tucson fell to Arizona 41-25 after struggling with miscommunication and offensive slip-ups.
The first half was low scoring, and the opening quarter saw the teams tied at 7-7. The Rattlers took the lead in the second quarter, 17-16. Tucson struggled to capitalize in the first half due to struggles communicating and errors snapping the ball.
The third quarter opened with Tucson regaining the lead, 19-17. The Skulls flashed their talent as Ben Woodard kicked a long field goal and Djimon Brooks snagged a ball fumbled by Arizona. However, Arizona quickly secured an interception and a touchdown, pushing the Rattlers into the lead 24-19. Quarterback Ja’Rome Johnson stepped out of the game in the third quarter after a knee injury, and Tucson struggled to rebuild momentum after Johnson’s exit.
The Arizona Rattlers continued to capitalize, keeping Tucson from making a comeback. In the end, Brandon Mackey secured one last touchdown for the Skulls, but the Arizona Rattlers emerged victorious, 41-25.
Previous Matchup
This is the second meeting between Tucson and Northern Arizona this season. The two teams last met in Prescott, where the Wranglers narrowly defeated the Skulls, 51-49. After two losses on the road, Tucson is motivated and prepared to meet Northern Arizona in the Boneyard.
The Sugar Skulls are not only looking to bounce back from last week’s loss, but they are also looking to earn redemption after their previous loss to Northern Arizona. With the spirit of the Boneyard behind them, the Skulls are focused and ready for the final home game of the season.
Tune in on Sunday, July 19, at 4:30 PM MST to watch the showdown or purchase your tickets now to experience the thrill of the Boneyard.
Fans can stay updated with schedules, news, and highlights by following the Tucson Sugar Skulls on all social media platforms and visiting tucsonsugarskulls.com.
Players Mentioned
#18 Ben Woodard
K, 6’0, 1
#44 Djimon Brooks
OL, 6’4, 2
QB, 6’0, 1
RB, 5’7, 2