Just like old times for Rush

DES MOINES, Iowa - The Chicago Rush celebrated the return of the Arena Football League in grand fashion Friday by defeating the Iowa Barnstormers 61-43 in front of 12,184 at Wells Fargo Arena.

The rust showed in this one as the teams combined for 10 turnovers and 18 penalties in the league's first game in nearly two years, but the Rush made the plays when it needed them.

"It felt great to be back," Rush coach Mike Hohensee said. "It wasn't a very pretty game, but I was pleased at our effort. Most of the mistakes that were made tonight were because the guys haven't seen live game action in so long. We'll work on that this week as we prepare for the home opener against Cleveland next Friday."

DeJuan Alfonzo intercepted a Brian Villanueva pass and returned it 10 yards for a Rush touchdown on the first play from scrimmage.

On Iowa's second possession, Alfonzo forced a fumble, which the Rush recovered at the Barnstormers' 20-yard line. The Rush again converted with a TD to make it 14-0.

Rush quarterback Russ Michna completed 18 of 30 passes for 261 yards and 6 TDs.