MLL New York Lizards

Week 9 Preview: Hounds v. Lizards

June 17, 2015 - Major League Lacrosse (MLL)
New York Lizards News Release


The undefeated New York Lizards prepare to take on the Charlotte Hounds for a second time this season at home this weekend. After beating the Hounds 21-16 in Charlotte three weeks ago, the Lizards look to sweep the regular season series and improve their overall record to 9-0.

Week 8 Recap

Week 8 saw the Lizards take down the Florida Launch in a hard-fought game, 18-11. The game marked the eighth consecutive win for the Lizards, improving their first place campaign heading into the All-Star break.

After a five goal, two assist game, Rob Pannell was named the Coca-Cola Player of the Game.

Greg Gurenlian was honored with his sixth FOAthlete of the Week award as he went 27-31 (87%) from the Faceoff 'X' for the game. Gurenlian also had a game-high 21 ground balls.

Tommy Palasek finished with five goals on the day, and Matt Gibson and Paul Rabil each finished with four points. Gibson had three goals and one assist where Rabil had one goal and three assists.

What to Look Out For

The Quest to 100 Wins

After a strong win against the Florida Launch, the New York Lizards hold 99 regular season wins throughout their 15-year history. The Lizards only need one more win to break their 100-win milestone.

Breast Cancer Awareness Jerseys

The Lizards will be wearing pink jerseys in support of breast cancer and Susan G. Komen of Greater New York City. Game worn jerseys will be autographed and auctioned off after the game.

Coaches' Notes

When asked about the Lizards' expectations for the second half of their season, Head Coach Joe Spallina commented: "We have our work cut out for us. After having such a successful first half of the season, teams will be gunning for us and we will have a huge chip on our shoulder."

In regards to the faceoff success of Greg Gurenlian this season: "Greg has found success in being a master of detail. He spends his whole year perfecting the art of the faceoff. It is his attention to the little details that makes him elite."

On team chemistry and status: "I think the biggest asset for us is that our guys get along with each other, love playing with each other, and that is a big thing when a team is trying to accomplish its goal of winning a championship."

Looking Ahead

After the upcoming game against Charlotte, the Lizards will embark on a two-game road trip. They will travel down to Florida to play the Launch on June 26th. In their previous matchup, the Lizards won in a back-and-forth battle 18-11. They will then head to Chesapeake to take on their rivals, the Bayhawks on July 2nd.

The team will return home for their final home game of the season on July 9th against the Denver Outlaws. The first 1,000 fans in attendance will receive an exclusive Rob Pannell Poster. For tickets, please call 1-855-NYLizards or visit NYLizards.com/Tickets.

Check out the New York Lizards Statistics



Major League Lacrosse Stories from June 17, 2015


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