Rebels Bounce Back with Impressive Win at Syracuse

The Albany Rebels bounced back from last week’s loss in their New York Cup opener by crushing the Syracuse Gaels 3-17 (26 points) to 1-9 (12 points) on Saturday at Corcoran High School in Syracuse.

The victory keeps Albany’s hopes alive for the league cup. They likely need to win out, beating Syracuse next month at home and then Buffalo in August on the road, while also erasing the four point deficit from their first match.

"It was great to see us bounce back only a week after such a frustrating loss," said Rebels co-head coach Ryan Moloney. "We knew we had to travel to Syracuse and play our best and we did just that. Now we need to keep the momentum up for the second half of the schedule."

Forward Cillian Flavin caught fire against Syracuse, leading the Rebels with 10 points. Other scorers included Chris Poggi (1 goal, 2 points), Frank Cabe (1 goal, 1 point), Ian Maher (1 goal, 1 point), Joe Bradley (2 points) and Mike Lee (1 point).

On the defensive side, rookie RC Helsing continued to impress by holding a talented Syracuse player scoreless.

“RC was imperious in defense,” Flavin said. “Matched against a Syracuse player that has caused us trouble in the past, RC won his individual battle and defended ferociously. It was an excellent performance by him.”

Moloney, who left the Buffalo game due to injury, was able to still contribute by playing goalkeeper.

Rebels Notes: Forward Chris Poggi leads the Rebels in scoring this season with 45 points (12 goals and 9 points) ... Frank Cabe scored a goal and a point in his season debut ... Brendan Rock served his 1-game suspension for a red card in the Buffalo game ... The Rebels return to action on July 13 for the Syracuse 7s Tournament.

New York Cup Standings

Team-Win-Loss-Draw

1) Buffalo-2-0-0

2) Albany-1-1-0

3) Syracuse-0-2-0