MILWAUKEE (November 12, 2010)— The Milwaukee Wave won its season opener 20-9 over the Missouri Comets, starting its MISL regular season title defense on the right foot.

An even-handed attack saw the scoring being spread out amongst seven players. Marcio Leite led the way with seven points, five of those points coming by way of five assists. Ryan Mack and Josh Rife each added four points themselves, while last season's top point-scorer, Giuliano Oliviero, notched a 2-point goal and an assist.

 

“It was important for us to come out strong this season," head coach Keith Tozer said. "I am thrilled that we were able to attack and spread out the scoring.”

 

Tenzin Rampa scored the first goal of the season with Rife and Mack also contributing goals in the first quarter. While the Wave was not able to score in the second quarter, veteran goalkeeper Nick Vorberg held the Comets to just two points in the half as the Wave held a 6-2 lead going into the break.

 

The Wave came out strong in the third quarter scoring six quick points. Leite and Rife both added goals and Oliviero scored his first of the season as the third quarter ended with the Wave leading 12-7. Rampa, Hewerton, J.P. Rodrigues, and Matt Stewart scored goals in the fourth quarter to stretch the lead and help to clinch the season opener 20-9.

 

With the win, Milwaukee marks the second consecutive season it has come out of the opening match — both road tests — victorious, shutting out Monterrey 15-0 on the road last year.