(SAN DIEGO – Dec. 27, 2019) – In a Friday night showdown, the San Diego Seals fell to the defending champion Calgary Roughnecks, 16-11, at Pechanga Arena.

“I thought we had a good start,” said general manager and head coach Patrick Merrill. “When we got up 5-3, I thought we were going to be able to extend a run and carry some momentum into the second half. But we gave up some late goals in the first half that affected our momentum. We had a very poor third quarter, we couldn’t string along enough offense. They’re a good team and they made us pay for it.”

After suffering a season-ending injury in March of the 2018-19 season, forward Johnny Pearson made his return to the floor. Pearson netted two goals in his return, including the first goal of the night five minutes into the game.

“Johnny did a really good job tonight,” continued Merrill. “We needed some size on that left side and he’s a big guy. He did a lot of things well out there and added two big goals. We’re happy to have him back.”

Forward Zack Greer led the Seals offense with four goals and seven points. The Seals power play executed on five of eight power play attempts, while goaltender Frank Scigliano stopped 14 shots in the first quarter.

The Seals head to Vancouver to face the Warriors on Sunday afternoon at Rogers Arena at 1:00 PM PST.

“We have to string together 60 minutes,” continued Merrill. “Playing two good quarters isn’t enough. If we’re going to stay in this race, we’re going to have to start getting some wins and hopefully that starts Sunday in Vancouver.”