MLL Florida Launch

Florida Launch Top Blaze in Season Opener

Published on April 22, 2018 under Major League Lacrosse (MLL)
Florida Launch News Release


KENNESAW, GA.- The rain and windy weather could not hold back the Launch this afternoon as they came out firing, taking their 9-4 lead at the half to beat the Atlanta Blaze 13-10 in the first game of the 2018 season.

The first six of seven goals in the game were scored by last years rookies, kicked off by Dylan Molloy, followed by Nick Mariano, Sergio Salcido and Ryan Drenner. Defenseman Jarrod Neumann also contributed two key goals in the second half to propel the Launch to victory.

Goalkeeper Austin Kaut made 20 saves out of 30 shots on goal, leading a strong defensive effort in the game. Dylan Molloy ended as the team leading scorer with two goals and two assists. Sergio Salcido added three goals in the first half while Ryan Drenner contributed one goal and two assists. Nick Mariano ended with three points as well.

QUOTES OF THE GAME

Tom Mariano keys to this win - " The biggest key was being really gritty. I thought we competed and contested a lot of their shots. We really wanted to stretch the shot clock and stretch our possessions and I thought at times we did an excellent job of that."

Austin Kaut breaking 500 career saves in a Launch uniform - "It feels good, but it's not all on me, its a team effort, that comes down to the defense and offense getting back on transition and I couldn't get to this point without the team working together and doing what we do."

PLAYERS OF NOTE

Dylan Molloy - four points, off two goals and two assists

Sergio Salcido - three goals in the first half.

Steven Brooks - one goal this game (ties Casey Powell for second most goals as a Launch player).

Austin Kaut had 20 saves on 30 SOGs (.666).

OTHER NOTES

The Launch head back to FAU Stadium for a five-game home field stint. The home opener will be next weekend, April 28, against the Chesapeake Bayhawks. Face-off is set for 7 PM.

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Major League Lacrosse Stories from April 22, 2018


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