In a game televised by Local 6, the Orlando Predators kept more than 9,000 fans at the Amway Center, and more at home on the edge of their seats, engaging in a back-and-forth battle with AFL rival Cleveland for 60-plus minutes.
The two teams worked overtime Saturday night. A failed 2-point conversion was the difference as the Predators came out on the short end of a 56-55 outcome.
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Trailing 56-49 in OT, Preds QB Randy Hippaerd connected with Kendal Thompkins on a deep touchdown pass. Opting to go for 2 and the win, Hippaerd's pass in the end zone was defended perfectly by the Gladiators.
Hippaerd finished the night with seven touchdown passes, two to Thompkins, three thanks to Larry Brackins. The Predators fall to 3 and 3 overall. They return to action Friday night in Philadelphia against the Soul.