Blast in seventh heaven

Champions once again — that’s seven times for the Baltimore Blast and my fifth Championship trophy since arriving 12 years ago.

What a great feeling it is winning another championship.

It never gets old and the fifth feels like the first. It was a great game last Saturday night against Missouri Comets in front of our home crowd of close to 8,000 people.

The players did an excellent job, maintaining their focus throughout the whole game. 

We went in the locker room at half time down 4-0 and with Missouri putting plenty pressure on us, we knew we had to come out, not trying to win the game in the first few minutes, but continue to play with controlled emotion and finish our chances.

In a game where we play four quarters it was important to focus on each one and win them. Missouri took the first two of the game so the reality was we had to win quarters three and four to come out on top. We had many chances in the first half but Missouri’s goalkeeper played amazing, and was determined to keep us out of the goal.

We were well aware that the only way to win quarters three and four was to find ways to put the ball in back of the net.

The longest part of the game was the last four and a half minutes.

We were leading the Comets 8-4 until they scored to make it 8-6 with close to two minutes to go.

It was then that the players’ will to win and character developed throughout the whole season allowed us to stay two ahead and win the championship.

All I could say is that winning is always great for me because when I win it is not only for me but for my country and all the inspiring young players there looking to move forward to the next level.

I want to thank all the supporters I have had over the 22 years of my professional career. It is your continued support that drives me each day.

Until next time!