Jacksonville Sharks Upset Undefeated Empire 61-58
June 26, 2021 - National Arena League (NAL)
Jacksonville Sharks News Release
JACKSONVILLE - The Jacksonville Sharks entered the Shark tank tonight after two straight loss and a matchup against the #1 ranked Albany Empire (4-0), Jacksonville looked to be the underdog in this match as Albany had previous beaten their last two opponents by over 20 points each.
The Sharks improved on both ends of the ball, with a strong performance on defense. In the first half, defense racked up 18 total tackles, with Kenny Veal and Cheatham Norril leading with five tackles each. Albany averages 65.7 points per game, but were limited to 27 points in the first half. The Sharks also grabbed an interception from their former quarterback Tommy Grady early in the fourth quarter. The Sharks logged six total breakup passes against the Empire, with Kenny Veal leading the team with three. The Sharks seemed to have new life on offensive with veteran QB Danny Southwick threw 13-15 for 145 yards and three touchdowns including one on this first drive with the Sharks this season, finding Jordan Williams for 69 yard touchdown. Kicker Brandon Behr went 2-2 in field goals, 3-3 in PAT and scored nine points.
On offense, the Sharks were led by WR Devin Wilson who grabbed three touchdowns on the night, along with
The Sharks maintained the lead throughout most of the night but Tommy Grady and the Empire kept it extremely close but QB Danny Southwick responded with a huge touchdown strike to Devin Wilson, scoring his third touchdown of the game and clinching the lead over the Empire, 58-52. Kicker Brandon Behr extended the lead grabbing the extra point, followed by a deuce to edge the game 61-52.
The Sharks shut the door on a Albany Comeback as the Sharks defense held them off to win the game. The Sharks will hit the road to face their in-state rivals the Orlando Predators this week. If you would like to ride a Jacksonville Sharks fan bus email info@jaxsharks.com
Tonight's Duval Motor Company Shark Players of the Game Include:
Duval Ford Offensive Player: WR, Jordan Williams. The speedy receiver / kick returner is a new addition to the Shark offense this year. In his third game as a Shark and is a two game award winner.
Duval Acura Defensive Player of the Game: DB, Kenny Veal. In his first game with the Sharks he proved to be a defensive weapon that was a major attached otodus
Duval Honda Special Teams Player of the Game: K, Brandon Behr continues to impress going into his third season with the Sharks. Behr finished the night with a Darley's Deuce, a field goal, and credentials.
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