By: Brett Gombita

Pittsburgh, PA - This past weekend, the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds (1-3) fell to the New York Empire (4-1) 34-11, the most goals surrendered by the Thunderbirds in franchise history, and then followed that performance up with a thrilling victory the very next day, defeating the Philadelphia Phoenix (0-4) in sudden death overtime to win the Commonwealth Cup for the first time in five years. 

The win marked the first of the season for the Thunderbirds, who sit at 1-3. Head coach David Berg said about getting win number one out of the way.

“It’s always important. It feels like you can approach the rest of the season with a clearer mind once you get the first one off your back.”

The hero of the win was Ryan Ward, whose first goal of the season was the game-winner. Berg talked about what he’s seen from Ward lately to trust him in that spot. 

“We identified him as being able to have a big impact for us. He’s certainly stepped up every time he’s played and continued to build throughout that game. He was one of our effective cutters. We just put the trust in what we’d been seeing the first five quarters in the game.”

Before the pair of contests, the Thunderbirds had a two-week layover, which according to Berg, the team spent trying to focus on defense. 

“Between the opener and this weekend, we’ve focused on generating turnovers in handler space, increasing reset pressures and helping the deep defense by limiting hucks. We’ve been better, but still not where we want to be.”

While the results of those practices didn't show up right away in New York, the next day in Philadelphia saw the Thunderbirds record 10 blocks and force 20 Philadelphia turnovers.

Now, focus shifts toward the Carolina Flyers, who come to town this Saturday, where there is still an emphasis on defense.  

“We know they’re a really good throwing team. We’re going to have to pick our battles. We know they want to stretch the field and push it deep. We are going to have to be very focused on defensive communication and making sure we’re prepared to always know where they’re trying to go.” 

The Injury Report

Aidan Landis will not be ready in time for Saturday's game as he recovers from a hamstring injury. Ian Piper, who threw for over 550 yards in his rookie debut, will also not be ready in time for Saturday's match-up due to a shoulder impingement, but progress is being made. Jacob Murray is listed as doubtful through an undisclosed injury. Malachi Marshall is also dealing with a foot injury but is listed as questionable heading into the match-up and is expected to play through pain if necessary. 

First pull against the Carolina Flyers is set for Saturday at 7 p.m. The theme for the game is Superhero Night and Thunderbirds fans will see Batman and Spiderman from 412 Superheros in attendance as well as a live music performance as EvRock Presents Rocki Boulis & DJ Avery. It will also be Dollar Hot Dog Night! Meet KDKA's own meteorologist Mary Ours as she sings the National Anthem The Commonwealth Cup will also be in the building and fans can snap a picture with the trophy on display. 

Tickets can be purchased here.