D-II Round 1: MSU Denver at UC Davis

DAVIS, Calif. – We’re tailgating outside the Robert Modavi Institute for Wine and Food Science on the campus of UC Davis, getting prepared for WCLL-RMLC clash between the Aggies and MSU Denver.

It’s a beautiful day in the San Fran-Sacto corridor and it features a pair of teams having quality seasons.

MSU Denver brings a perfect record into the contest and was a true contender in the RMLC this spring.

D-II Round 1: MSU Denver at UC Davis | https://t.co/iZqF5gNn9V #virtualmcla20
— MCLA Tournament '21 (@MCLA_Tournament) March 25, 2020

Despite relatively low numbers, the Roadrunners have a high-powered offense featuring eight players with at least 10 points, led by rookie attackman Zack Pfannesntiel. Sophomore Isaiah Marrujo is also problematic on attack while junior Brandon Route is a pass-first midfielder.

Sophomore Jake Downing has been solid in the cage for Metro while rookie FOGO Hunter Rowe has been lights out, winning 122-of-132 draws (92.4%) so far this spring.

“It’s good to be back in NorCal,” said MSU Denver coach Jon Black*, an Oak-town native. “We’re excited to match up against one of the best teams in the country. Possessions will be the key.”

While the Roadrunners might have an advantage at the dot, they’ll be challenged at just about every other level.

Arthur Antonio is a four-year starter in the Davis cage and he is protected by one of the most dynamic long-stick midfielders in the country in Dominic Piombo. Sophomore midfielder James Spargo is having a career year so far.

Junior middie Nicolas Costa is also putting together the best season of his career.

“Our kids couldn’t be more excited about playing at home,” said UC Davis coach Frank Resetarits*. “We’re going to have a great crowd and a great opponent in Metro. I love postseason lacrosse.”

[*- The coach didn’t really say this. This is all made up. It’s fake]