BLAST DEFEAT UTICA CITY FC 7-2

Baltimore, MD - After a victory in Harrisburg, the Blast returned to Towson SECU Arena for their fifth home game of the season. For the first time this season, the Blast would open with Michael Zierhoffer as the starting goalkeeper, as William Vanzela is out on injury. The Blast was victorious against Utica City, 7-2.

The Blast started off the game with an early lead when Lucas Roque scored the opening goal. This would be the only goal of the first quarter as both teams played an even match, each with 7 shots on goal. Early into the second quarter, Adriano Dos Santos would extend Baltimore’s lead by one. Jonatas Melo would send a beautiful pass to Mike Deasel who was waiting on post to score the Blast’s third goal of the night.  Ibrahima “Kalou” Keita would receive a blue card for pushing from behind, giving Utica a shootout opportunity, but Mike Zierhoffer wouldn’t allow it. Mike Zierhoffer starting his first game of the season, in lieu of Vanzela’s injury, rose to the challenge with a 1^st half shutout, with a total of 9 saves against Utica’s scoreless half.

Utica City would start off the second half strong when Christian Segura found the back of the net, recording Utica’s first goal of the night. Lucas Roque would answer for the Blast with his second goal of the night, assisted by Tony Donatelli. Ibrahima “Kalou” Keita would record his first goal of the season, extending the Blasts lead, 5-1.

The Blast start off the 4^th quarter on the powerplay, which was successfully killed by Utica. When Lucio Gonzaga’s shot was blocked, Quenton Shift would make a play from the rebound, cutting the Blast lead by 3. This would be Utica’s only goal of the fourth quarter, as the Blast dominated possession. Tony Donatelli would quickly answer for the Blast with his first of the night. Juan Pereira would take advantage of a fast break and extend the Blast lead, 7-2. The Blast would defeat Utica City, 7-2.

The Blast were led by Lucas Roque with 2 goals, Lucas Roque and Tony Donatelli with 2 assists. Goalkeeper, Mike Zierhoffer recorded 12 saves.

The Blast host Harrisburg Heat Friday, February 11th to Towson University SECU Arena Center. Kickoff is at 7:35pm EST. Follow the Blast on social media for updates and contact 410-73-BLAST to order tickets or go to baltimoreblast.com.