Everblades to ‘Make History’ After a 5-1 Win Against the Orlando Solar Bears

5-1 was the concluded score after an intense and heated matchup last night in Fort Myers at Hertz Arena between the Florida Everblades and the Orlando Solar Bears. 

After anticipation and patience from both teams going into the 1st game of the ECHL South Division Finals, Everblades defenseman Cole Moberg scored just 16 seconds into the 1st period, setting the tone for the rest of the night. 

What would that be? The defending Kelly Cup Champions are here to stay. 

“...We got the first goal and that's huge for momentum, we scored shortly after. I’d say just come out the same as we did today,” says Everblades goalie Cam Johnson when asked about how he felt with his team's performance. 

Momentum wasn't the only thing that was implemented to maintain a lead over Orlando, physicality and sharpness were also a part of the equation by forcing turnovers, taking advantage of empty space near the Orlando Solar Bears net, and connecting clean passes when it mattered most. 

It was evident that this level of composure and consistency from the Everblades struck a nerve after the first 20 minutes because as the game went on the Orlando Solar Bears couldn't stay out of the penalty box. 

By the end of the 3rd, there were 5 penalty calls against Orlando, 4 of them being split between Forward Tyler Bird and defenseman Jimmy Mazza. That’s not counting the 3 other penalties in the first 2 periods that belonged to them. 

As time started to tick away and pressure settled in for the Solar Bears, their gameplay was rushed and built off frustration. 

The Everblades capitalized off this by displaying dominant gameplay from every angle and maintaining the same level of urgency for 60 minutes straight.

So what’s next? Making history. 

“We just gotta give the same effort as we did tonight,” says Johnson.

Come see the Everblades do just that in game 2 tonight (Saturday) at the Hertz Arena in Fort Myers at 7:00 p.m. or tune in at ESPNSWFL radio.

It's the first weekend in May and it includes one of the biggest days of the year to party. Here are your Weekend Vibes, what is happening for Cinco De Mayo weekend in Southwest Florida.

The number of Cinco de Mayo celebrations and specials at local bars and restaurants are too many to list. Here we've list a couple of the top ones. Since the fiesta falls on Sunday, you might be planning a party at home. Click here for some easy party tips and tricks.

Food events are big deal in Southwest Florida. Cinco de Mayo included. However, so is barbeque and you'll get plenty of it at a festival in Punta Gorda. You'll also get music from one of the winners of "The Voice" on NBC.

Also, if you like flowers and plants there is another festival just for you. This year marks the 20th Anniversary of the Hibiscus Festival.

And we can't forget about racing fans. Horse racing that is. The world famous Kentucky Derby is Saturday. Put aside your sombrero's and Margaritas for your derby hats and Mint Juleps.

Finally, if you have any upcoming events that you would like to share, please send them here. Here are your Weekend Vibes for May 3rd through the 5th. If you can, get out and support local events and business.

*Please note, events are subject to change. It never hurts to confirm with a phone call or a check of social media and event websites.

Cool down at Sun Splash Water Park Saturday and Sunday and enjoy Cinco de Mayo themed games food and drinks. There will also be festive Mariachi music. Sun Splash is on Lake Kennedy Drive in Cape Coral. More info here.

This is similar to the monthly Trolley Parties through South Cape Coral. However, this time a limo bus will be your transportation. Hop on board and enjoy Mexican themed food and drinks at the participating bars and restaurants. 7-11 p.m. Saturday. $30 in advance, $25 for designated drivers. More info here.

Start burning calories before eating and drinking. Join in the one mile or 5K run starting at Cantina Laredo at The Bell Tower Shops in Fort Myers. The run begins at 8am Saturday. Cantina has a breakfast buffet for $10. More info here. 

Mercato has a big party on the lawn for Cinco de Mayo. Enjoy lots of food and music including a Santana tribut band. Sunday 2-9pm. Free. Mercato is in North Naples More info here.

Sample 50 beers, eat slow smoked BBQ and listen to lots of live music. This event is at Laishley Park on Saturday. Headlining the musical line up is Jake Hoot, a winner from "The Voice" TV show. 1pm to 9pm. Tickets start at $8. More info here.

If you like plants, expecially Hibiscus, this annual event is for you. They even have a Little Miss Hibiscus Queen. Besides plants galore there will be crafts, music, food and more. There is even a dinner under the stars. The fun takes place at Gilchrist Park in Punta Gorda Thursday through Sunday. More info here.

The Broadway show everyone has been talking about is on its final days in SWFL. The musical “Hamilton” sets the biographical story about Alexander Hamilton, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and the other founding fathers of the United States to current day music. The show runs through May 5 at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers. Tickets start at $52. RUSH tickets are also available for $39.28 day of show. More info here.

This is a series of events at the Florida Reparatory Theater in Fort Myers. It highlights five plays and playwrights panel discussions. Evens take place at the Historic Arcade Theatre. Tickets start at $25. More info here. 

Saturday is National Estuaries Day and they are celebrating at Rookery Bay in Naples. Admission is free for a day of family fun. Enjoy lots of kids activities, demos, boat tours, food trucks, book signings, and more. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. More info here.