Orlando Predators win thrilling game over Portland Steel

(photo credit: Orlando Predators/ Twitter)

Last week Orlando Predators quarterback Randy Hippeard was named AFL offensive player-of-the-week when he led the Predators to a 76-25 rout over division rival Tampa Bay Storm.

On Saturday night in front of an Orlando home crowd, Hippeard finished with six touchdown passes and two rushing touchdowns in a thrilling win over the Portland Steel 53-50. 

Going into this matchup most AFL experts picked the Predators to slaughter the visitors, but the Steel were able to make this game a shootout in the second half. The two teams combined to score 67 second half points.  

The action started to ignite with 3:56 left in the third quarter. The Steel took a 30-26 lead over the home team, silencing the crowd. 

The Predators were able to anwser right away on the next drive and regain the lead, 33-30. Quarterback Randy Hibbert connected with Greg Carr for a nine yard reception. 

Entering the fourth quarter the shoot out continued when Portland’s Southwick threw a deep touchdown pass to Perry. The Steel were able to take a small lead, 37-34, with 8:53 remaining. 

In an attempt to change momentum Predators coach Rob Keefe decided to gamble and attempt an onside kick with 1:30 left to play in the game. 

However, it backfired and Portland was able to recover the ball in the red zone. After stopping Portland on three straight plays, the defense was called for pass interference. This gave Portland the ball on the one yard line. After two rushing attempts the Steel punched the ball into the end zone to take a 50-46 lead with 49 seconds left to play.

Not to be counted out Predators kickoff return specialist Brandon Thompkins had a 52 yard return, to put the ball on the six yard line. 

Before the fans could catch their breath Hippeard leaped into the end zone for a Predator score. With 26 second left in the game the Predators took a 53-50 lead. 

Portland had one last chance to score with 18 seconds remaining on the clock, but on the first play Predator cornerback Kent Richardson intercepted the pass and sealed the victory for the Orland Predators. 

For Portland Danny Southwick’s five TD passes were not enough to grind out the win, the Steel are now 0-2. 

The Predators, 2-0, will look to tighten up their defense next week when they play the Jacksonville Sharks.