Courtesy of the IFL

The Massachusetts Pirates kicked off the 2025 season with a 46-25 loss to the Jacksonville Sharks. It was a disappointing opener for the team in front of their fans. 

Running back Pooka Williams was the lone bright spot, scoring three touchdowns for the Pirates but it wasn’t enough as Massachusetts fell behind early and struggled to mount a consistent offensive attack. 

Turnovers were the story. Massachusetts turned the ball over four times and all four led to Jacksonville scores. Quarterback Kenji Bahar struggled early on throwing two interceptions that resulted in Sharks touchdowns. 

The defense struggled as well, especially the secondary. Jacksonville quarterback Kaleb Barker had a big game, throwing three touchdown passes. The Sharks to a 26-7 lead at the break but it was never really that close. 

Jacksonville poured it on in the second half building a 46-15 lead. Old friend Jimmie Robinson scored from one yard out to pad the lead late. The Pirates scored the last touchdown but the hay was already in the barn.

The Pirates and Sharks are scheduled to play two more times this season. April 19th in Jacksonville and May 29th back at the Tsongas Arena. 

Massachusetts is back at the Tsongas Arena on Friday when they host Quad City for a 7:05 pm kickoff.