Sussex Offense Erupts in First NJCAA Contest, Upends Del Tech 18-15

Freshman Grant Parker, freshman Dom Falleni, and sophomore Matt Sciancalepore combined for 14 goals, and freshman goalie Collin Miller registered 15 saves on Sunday night in Conshohocken PA as the Sussex Skylanders defeated Del Tech 18-15 in their first game of the 2021 season.

It was worth the wait.

This was the lacrosse programs first win as a new member of Region 19 in the NJCAA, and not even the steady rain and fog could cool down the 'Landers offense.

The challenges that every college team faces in this pandemic are many, and the worst winter season in years didn't help make matters any easier.

"It was our first time on a full field this season believe it or not," said head coach Steve Manitta "We knew mistakes would be made, but to get the win, and correct those things moving into this week, is a bonus."

The Skylanders bolted out to a 10-4 halftime lead, scoring in settled offense, and the defense of Matt Bruno, Dom Candeloro, and Griffen Rhodes thwarted any efforts of Tech's attack in front of freshman goalkeeper Collin Miller.

Turnovers in the clearing game, and missed defensive assignments allowed a no-quit Del Tech squad to creep closer on the scoreboard.

"We were gassed coming out of halftime," said Miller. "We settled everyone down after a timeout, Coach McCoy, defensive coordinator, made a few adjustments, and we took care of business in the forth."

Freshman midfielders Blake Dipple, Zach Miller, Nolan Waldron and sophomores Brian Curley, and Sciancalepore controlled the middle of the field and allowed the offense to get back in rhythm.

"I give our midfielders a ton of credit, old school 2-way guys, workhorses," Manitta added.

"When we're moving the ball efficiently, and picking our spots, all six guys can make plays." added Lenape Valley product Falleni.

Newton NJ native Grant Parker killed any hope of a Del Tech miracle with his final 2 goals of the game to finish with a team high 6 goals and 3 assists.

"Parker and Falleni were lights out tonight. They look like they've been playing together seasons not weeks." said Manitta

Defensman Matt Bruno scored in the 3rd quarter, while Dipple and Waldron both added a goal and an assist.

The Skylanders travel to Cortland NY on Saturday March 13th to take on the Tompkins Panthers.