Game number five of the season brought the Denver Outlaws to the sunshine state for a big time match up with the Florida Launch. Having lost the previous weekend in a tough battle with Rochester, we were in need of a victory. We came into the game with a 2-2 record and knew we did not want to dip below .500 to 2-3. We also knew Florida, coming off of their first win of the season and sitting at 1-3 were going to be desperate for a win.
With the Colorado Mammoth of the NLL losing last weekend in the playoffs, our roster was heavily bolstered this weekend with indoor players who played an integral role in us winning the 2014 championship. We had 5 players return to the lineup for the first time this season: John Grant Jr, Cam Holding, Jeremy Noble, Chris O’Dougherty, and Dillon Ward. Right away, at practice Friday night, you could feel the increased energy brought upon by the return of the indoor players.
The first half of the game Saturday night was probably the best half of lacrosse we have played all season. It would have been understandable if we started a little slow, given the fact we had so many new faces in the lineup. But, this was not the case. At halftime we found ourselves up 11-4 and really dominating every facet of the game. One thing is certain; it was great having John Grant Jr. back in the lineup. His first three points of the game all could have been Sports Center Top 10 Plays. He started off with a behind the back assist to Eric Law, then stuck a behind the back goal on the run from about 15 yards, and then finished it off with a second behind the back assist to Eric Law.
Florida is a very talented team and we knew they were not going to roll over in the second half and accept defeat. They did a great job battling back in the second half and were able to significantly cut into the lead. It proved too little too late and we escaped with a huge 15-12 win on the road. The second half wasn’t our best lacrosse but every win in the league is a big win and it was great to leave Florida above .500 at 3-2.
In my opinion, this was the most fun weekend of the MLL season so far. Florida is a great place to play. The hotel is great, the weather is unbeatable, and there is plenty to do around Boca Raton. I also got a chance to play against Cameron and Roman Lao-Gosney who I spent 3 years with at Lehigh. They are both great players and even better people and I loved getting an opportunity to suit up against a couple of former Mountain Hawks. Sunday, we had our annual Outlaws Beach Day at Del Ray Beach. We had an excellent time enjoying the weather, ocean, and watching the two NCAA quarter final games.
After two consecutive weeks on the road, I can’t wait to get back to Denver next week and play in front of the best fans in the league. Next week we welcome the Chesapeake Bayhawks to Mile High. Both of us currently sit at 3-2 and in a tie for second place. The winner of next week’s game will move into sole possession of second place so you know it is going to be a battle.
Until next time,
Noah Molnar
Denver Outlaws #12
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