In a win or go home game for the Boston Cannons at home Saturday afternoon hosting the Florida Launch, they came out strong, and looked like a team poised to stay in playoff contention. The Launch cut a seven-goal deficit to one in the final minutes, but we unable to convert in final seconds and were nipped by the Cannons, 16-15.
Converting on their first three shots, the Cannons took an early 3-0 lead. Casey Powell sensed the danger of falling behind big, and scored an unassisted goal on a dodge from X. Boston took over from there, breaking it open to a 9-2 lead with hat tricks from Buchanan and Berger in the first half.
The Launch were able to tally a few goals and went into the dressing rooms with the Cannons at a 10-5 advantage. Florida played much better after making some key halftime adjustments, it looked like they were sliding faster and paid more attention to the players who needed to be held quiet in order to come back. Powell stood out and was seemed to always keep the Launch in the game. Casey contributed with eight points in his efforts.
Kevin Buchanan and Stephen Berger with Will Manny were just too much for the Launch this weekend. They were held in check last weekend against the same defensive core, seeing little success in their blowout loss last weekend, but this match-up was far different. They had their way with the Launch defenders and looked like a time ready to carry some momentum into the playoffs.
Florida is eliminated with the loss, as they fall to 5-8. The Cannons will wait to see the outcome of the Ohio Machine versus Rochester Rattlers game to see how their playoff battle will unfold.
Chris Eck did not play due to some hamstring tightness. Paul Rabil played the first half, and watched the second half from the sideline with a boot on his right foot. That is not good for Boston approaching the postseason.
Florida will play spoiler and look to halt the Ohio Machine’s chance at clinching playoff berth next Saturday in Ohio. The Cannons have an important match-up against the Rattlers, as the fourth and final playoff spot still hangs in the balance.
