LOWELL, MA - The Pirates now lead the three game season series, 2-1, over the Sharks after a 43-29 win in a game marked by quarterback Tyler Huff's starting debut and several key injuries on the Sharks' side this week.
RB Pooka Williams opened the scoring for the Pirates with a rushing touchdown. The Sharks answered with a 4th down touchdown pass from Huff to Marcus Rogers, his first career TD pass, followed by a Sharks fumble recovery and a field goal to take a brief 10-7 lead.
Pirates QB Bahar ran in a touchdown to retake the lead, then Zico took over. He caught two touchdown passes, including a long strike as time expired to put the Pirates up 29-10 going into halftime.
The Sharks came into the second half with energy. Huff ran in for a touchdown on the opening drive, though the kick was blocked for the extra point. Huff later added a TD run after connecting with Jaedon Stoshak to move the chains. That brought the score to 23-29 and gave the Sharks a shot to make another comeback.
The Pirates responded fast. Bahar ran in a touchdown and then converted a two point attempt, making it 37-23. On a key fourth and goal, Ka'ron Ashley went down with an injury and the Sharks came up empty at the 2 yard line.
Pooka Williams added his second rushing touchdown with four minutes left. The Sharks struck back on one play, as Rogers took a long pass and broke two tackles for the score. The two point attempt failed and the clock ran out resulting in a disappointing final score of 43-29.
Huff showed promise in his first start, finishing with two passing touchdowns and two rushing scores. But with several starters out and limited prep time after playing on the road Saturday, the Sharks couldn't keep up with the Pirates or the explosive plays from Zico and Williams.
The Sharks will look to bounce back next week when they host the defending champion Arizona Rattlers on June 7. Tickets on sale now. Anyone involved in education (teachers, lunch staff, janitors, bus drivers) are eligible for buy one get one free tickets. Call 904-621-0700 or visit jaxsharks.com.
About the Jacksonville Sharks
The Jacksonville Sharks are members of the Indoor Football League (IFL). The 4X Champions play all their home games on True Vet Field at the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena. Sharks Season tickets for the 2025 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 X and Instagram @jaxsharks, as well as the Attack Dance Team at facebook.com/sharkattackdance and Chum at facebook.com/chumsharks.
