CHAMPS REGAIN COMPOSURE, DOWN DALLAS

DALLAS — Orlando got a scare from the Dallas Stars Sunday night, an upset that would have pinned Orlando in a potential three-way tie for third heading into the final three weeks of the season. Instead, the Intimidators held it together and Thomas Gunner's sliding touchdown late in the fourth quarter helped Orlando overcome a 14-point deficit to win 34-28.

A.J. LaCoste may of had his greatest game of his career. He had 6 tackles, 1 sack, 1 pass defended, 2 tackles for loss, forced a fumble and stopped Johnny English on a fourth down run that would have kept the game-winning drive alive for Dallas. Orlando forced 4 turnovers, turning it over just once themselves - a Zach Parker fumble that was returned for a touchdown in the first quarter that put Dallas up 14-0.

Quarterback Kevin Walker finished 27/43 for 254 yards, 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions, his second consecutive clean-sheet and third of the season. Walker started the game 13/26 and finished 14/17. Johnny Enlgish and Zach Parker both had 100+ yard rushing performances and each scored once. Thomas Gunner and Scott King also had 100+ yards receiving. Orlando won the game despite 8 penalties for 68 yards. Dallas reached the red zone five times and scored on only three of the five possessions.

Dallas was eliminated from playoff contention with the loss. Orlando moved into a tie for second place with New York at 4-2. The two teams will meet in week 10, following New York's tilt with Baltimore. Orlando has a bye week 9.

#dallas #orlando