Saturday night’s match up had the eldest team in the league taking on the youngest. Milwaukee (9-4) came into Orlando (0-15) leading the series 1-0, and looking to increase their record; and sailed into victory beating the Sharks 8-4.
The New Year had Orlando looking like a new team, with one objective, obtaining the first win of the season, to no avail. The Sharks bit in and drew first blood as the latest addition to team forward Shawn Boney scored within the first 26 seconds into the game. Boney used his size to control the tempo of the first period. However, Milwaukee proved to be undeterred answering the goal with one of their own off the leg of midfielder Marcelo Fontana.
Defense dominated the night. Sharks keeper Antonio Iriarte, made an impressive stance in the box, with agility and focus defending his turf. The offense struggled to penetrate the net not getting a glimpse of an open shot; however, the last goal of the half by forward Mauricio Ruiz gave Orlando the lead going into halftime 4-2.
The Wave came out of the locker room to start the second half with a goal, tying the game at four all. Defender Adam West put it in during the minutes. Orlando had no answer for the Wave, and continued to struggle as defenders Lovelace Ackah and Joe Di Buono added to Milwaukee’s total in the fourth period. Orlando regained ball possession and took the ball down field, only to have all shot attempts blocked. Midfielder Micki Djerisilo tried to get the Sharks back into the fight, off a penalty kick but failed to reach the net.
Frustrations and tempers flared high as penalties on both sides of the ball lead the first half of play. The Shark tank came to life after numerous suspect calls were made against Orlando. Following the foul called on midfielder Djerisilo the crowd made their feelings known to the referees. The biggest penalty of the half came against Milwaukee in the second period, earning a yellow card for kicking the ball after the whistle.
The night was marked by key injuries, two Milwaukee players getting hurt during play, midfielder Jonathan Santos in the second period and defender Deco in the third.
Up next the Sharks travel to Philadelphia to take on the KiXX on Saturday, January 12th, still looking for their first win this season.
