In their season finale with the Baltimore Blast, the Orlando Sharks knew they would have to perform exceptionally against one of the league’s premier teams. The Blast were quick to display their potent offense, scoring after only a minute of play on a goal by defenseman Billy Nelson. The Sharks were unable to answer as Baltimore scored once more in the first quarter, this time on a power play by forward Machel Millwood. The score after one quarter was Baltimore 4, Orlando 0.
Though they controlled the ball well, it wasn’t until a Sharks’ power play that Orlando was able to get on the scoreboard. With seconds left, and after a barrage of shots on goal, forward Damien Pottinger was finally able to will the ball into the net with an assist by midfielder Miki Djerisilo. Baltimore midfielder David Bascome answered with a two-point goal halfway through the second quarter. Baltimore once again extended their lead to four points. With eight seconds left in the half, Orlando was awarded a penalty shot. Forward Shawn Boney made good use of his powerful 6 foot 7 inch frame, rifling the ball past Baltimore’s Sagu to cut the lead to two points. The half ended with the score Baltimore 6, Orlando 4.
The third quarter started with a battle over ball control eventually leading to a Baltimore breakaway. Charging three on two, Baltimore tacked on two more points with a goal by defenseman Mike Lookingland. Both defenses stiffened with blocked shots and saves. The quarter ended with Baltimore still on top, 8-4.
The Blast struck again midway through the fourth quarter on midfielder Lucio Gonzaga’s shot to the corner of Nagy’s net, stretching their lead to a half dozen points. Down six points and looking to gain an edge, Orlando brought in JP Rodriquez as the sixth attacker with 5:44 left to go in the game. Shortly thereafter, Rodriquez earned a blue card, giving the Blast a power play. Baltimore capitalized with a goal by defenseman PJ Wakefield.
Though the final score was Baltimore 12, Orlando 4, the Sharks showed noticeable improvement in their play against a playoff bound Blast team. The Sharks look to rebound against Monterrey La Raza next Saturday night at the Amway Arena.
