The Bombers went on to win a game that they never trailed in the second half, 29-28. The win for Salina was the 10th win of the season and also revenge for a loss the Bombers took on their home field to the Bandits back in April. The Bombers have lost a total of three games this season to two teams. That loss to the Banidts in April and two losses to the Wichita Wild. Salina will get a chance to avenge those two losses tonight in Park City.
In the first meeting on March 16th, the Wichita Wild came into Salina with a win already under their belt. The were a veteran team with a system in place. Meanwhile, the Bombers were just looking for which door to enter the Bicentennial Center. Salina had a bunch of guys that were about to experience their first live action of indoor football against the best team in the league. The rookies would hang around for a while, leading early and trailing by only two points as the second quarter was winding down. But the Wild would flex their muscle, especially on the defensive line. However, Wichita would force a couple quick turnovers and turn a 22-20 lead into a halftime score of 43-20. The visitors would score 30 second quarter points and scored 21 points in the last 2:09 of the first half. They would continue that run, scoring the first 10 points of the third quarter. The Wild would grab a 60-34 victory and move to 2-0 while handing the Bombers their first loss.
The second meeting would come in Park City on May 11th. The Bombers were looking to finish four consecutive road games with a 4-0 record. A lot had changed in 2 months for Salina. Jarvis Jones and John Steel were added to the offensive line while Ben Pister and Jake Lattimer were defensive line additions. Both units would perform well. The offensive line did not give up a sack (five were allowed in the first meeting) and the defensive line performed at a high level. Wichita was able to force 3 interceptions and took advantage of special teams. Salina had 2 field goal attempts that missed but stayed in play, one was returned for a touchdown, the other returned inside the five yard line. The Bombers were handed their third loss of the season by a score of 45-40, despite giving up just 158 offensive yards.
Including that loss, the Bombers have won 8 of their last 9 games. Salina has also won their last 5 in a row, building a great deal of momentum heading into the Championship Bowl tonight.
So after a week of anticipation, the 2013 CPIFL Title will be decided between the two best teams in the league, both from Kansas. The I-135 rivalry will add a new chapter tonight with a championship on the line.
The CPIFL Champions Bowl I can be heard on 99KG and on Salina Post with Salina Bombers Pregame starting at 6:30 pm and kick-off scheduled for 7:05 pm from Hartman Arena in Park City.