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menuWEEK SEVEN PREVIEW: Sharks vs. Gunslingers
2-4 Sharks Entering Midway Point in 2022
JACKSONVILLE, FL – The Jacksonville Sharks (2-4) earned a much-needed win on the road against the Carolina Cobras last week in a 59-57 victory. The victory not only snapped the Cobras win streak but propelled the Sharks up to 4th place in the standings which is a playoff position. To stay there or elevate further, the Sharks will have to defeat the San Antonio Gunslingers (0-4) this Friday night in Jacksonville, FL with kickoff set for 7pm.
The Gunslingers have shown they can be a threat to unexpecting opponents as they were two points away from upsetting the Columbus Lions in week 2 they also had an impressive 44-36 battle against the Orlando Predators for their season opener. Their star offensive players like starting quarterback and former Jackson State QB Robert Kent who has thrown 39 completions for over 495 yards and 12 touchdowns in NAL this year. Kent has yet to play in Jacksonville but will likely look for his top targets Neiko Creamer and Kali Rashaad. Rashaad is also a threat on special teams as he already has two kick returns for a touchdown this season. Defensively, the Gunslingers have allowed over 225 points scored in four games; their worst loss came against Carolina where the Cobras defeated them 72-35 in Greensboro, NC. If Jacksonville continues to pick up where they left off in Carolina, fans may be in for a very high-scoring Sharks game Friday night.
The spotlight for the Sharks this week is aimed at new quarterback Arville Nelson who had a phenomenal first game as a Sharks. The veteran arena quarterback is no stranger to close games and help guide the Sharks to a crucial victory against the Cobras throwing for over 243 yards, five touchdown passes, and one rushing touchdown. Receiver Devin Wilson benefited from the change under center as he led the Sharks with seven catches for 117 yards and three receiving touchdowns. Jacksonville's Defensive made a major impact against the league-leading Cobras. As a unit, the Sharks stopped the Cobras on three drives and held the Cobras under 10 points in both the 1st quarter and 3rd quarters. Sharks defensive back Clifton Duck led the team in tackles with eight and added a pass breakup while both defensive lineman Chei Hill & linebacker Anthony Johnson each had a sack among several qb pressures on Cobras quarterback Jonathan Bane.
This week Shark Nation will look for the same intense defense to turn the tide in the game. Nelson under center proved to be a solution for the Sharks offense in key games showcasing that ability at home would give the fans something extra to cheer about as the Sharks have the potential to flip their season around with a (0-4) San Antonio Gunslingers this week in the Shark Tank and a (2-3) Orlando Predators next week in Jacksonville. Hang tight fans this rollercoaster season is not over a 4-4 Shark team in week 9 could be possible.
Kickoff is set for Friday, June 3 at 7pm (EST) ticket are on sale now by calling 904-621-0700 ext. 717. Can’t make the game, you can watch every National Arena League game by going to the NAL YouTube Channel to watch the game stream on YouTube Live, a link will also be posted on Sharks social media on game day.
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 Nation Memberships for the 2022 season are now available. To become a Shark Nation member or for more information please call (904) 621-0700. 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.