The Milano Seamen (5-2) will host the Ancona Dolphins (3-4) Saturday, June 19, in this final game of the Italian “clock tournament”.
The Dolphins are desperate for this victory as winning is likely to send them to the post season. Milano on the other hand, doesn’t want to let their narrow loss to Parma last weekend turn into a loosing streak.
The Seamen were defeated by the Parma Panthers 27-30 last week, as the Panthers scored the go-ahead touchdown with under a minute left. Milano is eager to bounce back as their talented offense should be able to score in bunches against this inexperienced Dolphins defense. Look for quarterback Luke Zahradka to target Steffan de Tunisi and Jordan Bouah often as these two have proven themselves as go to receivers. On the ground, physical running backs William Petrone and Giacomo Querzola provide the Seamen offense with a great short yardage option. Fans can expect Milano to run the ball often in this game and challenge the Ancona linebacking corps.
Ancona Dolphins @ Milano Seamen, June 19, 18:00 CET (6 pm, 12 noon ET)
Defensively, linebacker Enzo Mensah is a key player to watch. The rare combination of size, speed, and intensity make this defender one the Italy’s finest young players. He’ll have to play well against Ancona’s athletic quarterback Colin Digalbo, who has a tendency to tuck and run often.
The Dolphins are coming off of a heart breaking 27-20 loss to the Firenze Guelfi. The back and forth match sent the Dolphins to the fourth seed. Currently, they sit among the Lazio Ducks and Bologna Warriors all vying for the final post season spot. Defensively, Dolphins linebacker Kristian Giardinieri has been the team’s best tackler of late. His play will be crucial in stopping a powerful Seaman rushing attack. On the back end of this Ancona defense, safety Zach Quattrone will aim to step up as his young secondary is lining up against an experienced group of receivers.
Dolphins quarterback Colin Digalbo eager to get another chance to face the Seamen, given him and the offense were shut out by Milano earlier this season. Look for Digalbo to use his legs to move the sticks and target leading receiver Emanuele Gianfelici downfield.
The Dolphins are eager to make some noise and pull of the upset against the defending champions. Meanwhile, Milano aims to send a message to the league that they are the defending champions for a reason.
Watch the game live here. Ancona Dolphins @ Milano Seamen, June 19, 18:00 CET (6 pm, 12 noon ET)
Milano Seamen roster
Ancona Dolphins roster
