Steelheads Snag 3-Points on Road in Season Opener in Portland

Portland, OR

The Steelheads hit the road on Saturday, for their 22′-23′ WISL season opener, against the Portland Blacktails. The Fish scored twice in the first half, and four times in the second, holding Portland to just three goals. Their 6-3 win snagged them 3-points, putting them at 1-0 to start the season. Tyler Sharp was named Player of the Match.

The first quarter of play went scoreless, with the Steelheads maintaining the majority of possession. Not until the second half, did Glenn Paden start the party with two goals in the middle of the second quarter. Portland’s Christopher Kalla, however, was also able to find the back of the net, leaving the score 2-1, in favor of the Fish.

Starting off the third quarter, Tyler Sharp found the net early, followed by Jacen Stein, furthering the Fish’s lead to 4-1. At a critical time in the third quarter, Portland found themselves with a big opportunity to tie up the game: a penalty was called by Referee John Snider, on a breakaway chance from a counterattack. After being awarded the breakaway penalty, Sharp was able to catch up to Portland’s shooter, denying him a quality shot, and ultimately helping Goalkeeper Trevor Davoren, save the penalty.

“We emphasized holding the lead when we got the ball, playing with composure. This worked well for us as we would break Portlands high pressure and turn it into a break away. We still have a lot of work to do but this was a great first step.”

Tyler Sharp – Midfielder

Going into the fourth quarter, Portland found the back of the net twice more, cutting the lead. Later, however, newcomer Jorge Delgado found the back of the net, awarding him his first Steelheads’ career goal. Following Delgado’s goal, second-year defender, Danny Amador, would score off of an assist from Stein, wrapping up the Fish’s goals for the evening, making the game 6-3.

The Fish capture their first road win and had one of their best defensive showings since their inaugural season last year.

“Defensively, we did not allow them many good shots on goal, which also led to some offensive success.”

Trevor Davoren – Goalkeeper (C)

The traveling roster consisted of many new faces, supported by some key veterans and returners.

“We moved the ball around great defensively and offensively. We limited fouls and punished Portland on power play offense. All around, we played great as a team but it’s only the first game we have a long way to go we have to keep working hard and get better.”

Cesar Oliver Avila – Defender (C)

[event_results 17909]

[event_performance 17909]

[team_standings 16818]

Next Up:

The Fish will hit the road for their second straight away game, facing off against OlyTown in Olympia, WA. The Artesians are also 1-0 on the season, after beating Oly-Pen Force 17-7. Tickets for the away match are on sale HERE.

The Steelheads’ home opener will be November 19th at The Snohomish Sports Dome. Kick-off is at 7:00 PM. Space is limited, so get your tickets TODAY!