Arico, Moojen net two each, but it's not enough as Heat top Tropics

HARRISBURG, Pa. – The Florida Tropics playoff hopes in their first season of play in the Major Arena Soccer League took a major blow Friday night when they fell to the Harrisburg Heat, 11-6, at the State Farm Show Arena.

The hosts jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the first half, and the closest Florida could come was 8-5 when captain Freddy Moojen netted his second of the game with just over five minutes gone in the fourth quarter.

The two teams entered the game tied for second in the eastern division with identical 8-9 records. The two teams play again Saturday night in Harrisburg, a must win for Florida. Harrisburg would earn a playoff berth with a win in that game as well.

Florida could still earn a playoff spot if they defeat the Heat in the second of the back-to-back games. The Tropics would then have to defeat Syracuse Sunday in Syracuse, the team's final regular season game, while the Heat would have to lose to Baltimore in Baltimore March 5.

Anthony Arico had two goals in his return after missing the last several games with a quad injury. Lucas Teixeira added a goal and an assist.

Ricardo Carvalho had three goals and two  assists, while Lucio Gonzaga had four goals, to pace the Harrisburg attack.

The remaining two regular season games will be broadcast live at www.masl.tv, with kickoff Saturday at 7:05 p.m., and 4:05 p.m. Sunday in Syracuse.