Round One Preview

Jacksonville, FL – The Sharks will host the Orlando Predators in the first round of the National Arena League (NAL) Playoffs on Saturday, August 5th.

The two teams played three times during the regular season, the Sharks taking the series 2-1 and outscoring Orlando 183-129. 

Their last match-up was on July 15th in Jacksonville. This game, the second half of a back-to-back, ended in a 56-24 Sharks win. 

The defense was electric throughout the game. Jabari Gorman finished with two interceptions, and Marvin Ross had one. Jermiah Price (3.5), Tre Harlan (1), Jimmie Goodloe (1), and Faleaoga Russell (1) all had sacks to help limit the Predators to 24 points.

Sam Castronova and the offense scored six touchdowns; Anthony Johnson had two of them, one rushing and one receiving.

Gorman was named Defensive Player of the Week, and Johnson the Iron Man Player of the Week. Johnson had a blocked kick to add to his touchdowns.

Last week, the Sharks lost to the Cobras in Carolina, 50-37. Many starters, including Castronova, sat during the final week of the regular season as the outcome had no consequences for the Sharks in the standings. The Cobras, however, needed the win to clinch home-field advantage against the San Antonio Gunslingers in the first round of the playoffs.

Kamrin Solomon and Jenson Stoshak scored two touchdowns each. Backup quarterback Eddie Brill, Jr. threw for 231 yards and four touchdowns. He also had a rushing touchdown to add to his line. 

The Predators lost in overtime in West Texas last weekend. After throwing an interception in the endzone during overtime, Orlando gave up a Warbirds touchdown to end the regular season.

Game time on Saturday is 7 p.m. at Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena. It’s Fan Appreciation Night! Come out and cheer on your Sharks as they fight for a spot in the NAL Championship Game! Purchase tickets at www.jaxsharks.com or by calling 904-621-0700. 

About the Jacksonville Sharks

The Jacksonville Sharks are members of the National Arena League (NAL).The 2019 & 2017 NAL Champions and ArenaBowl XXIV Champions play all their home games at the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena. Sharks season tickets for the 2023 season are now available. To become a Shark Nation member or for more information please call (904) 621-0700 or visit https://www.jaxsharks.com/shark-nation-memberships Follow the Sharks on Facebook at facebook.com/jaxsharks and on Twitter and Instagram @jaxsharks, as well as the Attack Dance Team at facebook.com/sharkattackdance and Chum at facebook.com/chumsharks.