Top > Sport > 2006 > September > 2006-09-27

It feels good to be home for Saints

The New Orleans Saints played their first game at the rebuilt Louisiana Superdome Monday night. The Superdome suffered extensive damage and needed $185 million in repairs, after Hurricane Katrina slammed into the U.S. Gulf Coast 13 months ago. The return home, in front of a sellout crowd of 68,000, was a sweet one at that, as the Saints beat the Atlanta Falcons 23-3.

The Saints blocked a punt for a touchdown four plays into the game and never looked back. New Orleans improved to 3-0, matching their win total from last season`s 3-13 record. In 2005, they were forced to play four home games at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, three in San Antonio and one in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Saints this season sold out all eight of their home games for the first time in the franchise`s 40-year history.

The Saints` defense sacked Falcons quarterback Michael Vick five times and held him to 137 passing yards. It was the first loss of the season for the Falcons, who were outgained 326-299 in total yardage. "This is special. It`s an exciting feeling for everyone in this place because everyone went through a lot." Said Saints wide receiver Joe Horn.