PHOTOS: Empire lose, ending inaugural season

Marrio Norman and head coach Rob Keefe during last nights defeat to the Washington Valor. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Varmah Sonie all focus at the start of last nights game against the Valor. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Defensive back Marrio Norman making his enertance before the game. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Place kicker Pat Clarke kicking off after a Valor touchdown. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Malachi Jones (7) running down the field after making a catch. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Wide receiver Joe Hills making an over the shoulder catch during last nights game. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Washington’s Dallas Jackson celebrating after the Valor defeated the Empire 47-40. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Greg Carr (2) making the tackle during last nights game. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Malachi Jones being consoled by fans after the tough loss to the Valor. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Varmah Sonie (10) attempting to make an interception during last nights game. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Wide receiver Malachi Jones celebrating a touchdown against the Washington Valor. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Quarterback Tommy Grady dropping back for a pass during Saturday’s game against the Washington Valor. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Defensive linemen Joe Sykes enters the field during pre game introductions. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier

The Albany Empire fall one game short of making it to the Arena Bowl in their inaugural season. Photo: Robert Dungan/ The Upstate Courier