VSI Tampa Flames Lose Close Opener Against Orlando Stampede

The following report was submitted by Alex Miranda, of VSI Flames Inc.

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Ocala Stampede took victory in a closely fought match between two sides making their debut in PDL history as they defeated the Tampa Flames 4-2 on Sunday evening, May 6, at J.C. Handley Park.

The family friendly kickoff event of the 2012 season pit the VSI Tampa Flames PDL team against the Ocala Stampede, at the J.C. Handley Sports Complex in Brandon, at 3104 South Kings Ave.

The game got off to an exciting start with the Flames scoring early on from a corner kick in the fifth minute through their English defender, Jamie McGuinness. Ocala equalized after 10 minutes following a sustained period of pressure when their Brazilian central striker Carlos Tenorio De Araujo scored with a powerful downward header.

After a sustained period of pressure and a couple of missed chances by the Flames, Ocala took the lead in the 28th minute through Karamba Janneh  and extended this in stoppage time when Gabriel Zapponni scored with a fine 20-yarder into the roof of the net.

The Flames came out strong in the second half and had a couple of great chances before striker Kenny Hogg pulled a goal back in the 82nd minute with a composed finish.  The Flames pressed forward as they looked to even up the contest and following some desperate defending and a goal line clearance by Ocala, they broke away and De Araujo scored his second of the match with a cool finish in the 90th minute.

The Flames next game is away to IMG Bradenton on Thursday, May 10, at 5 p.m., followed by another home game May 13, against Fort Lauderdale at 4 p.m. For more information and to order tickets visit www.vsi-flames.com.

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