Sharks Lacrosse Wins Season Opener in OT

The  boys varsity lacrosse team started its season with a thrilling overtime win Friday against Oak Park, last year's league champion. Sophomore Duke Conrad scored the winning goal, which was created off a tough ride by the Shark attackmen. Malibu had not previously had the lead at any time during the game.

After a low-scoring first quarter, Oak Park found its groove and opened a 5-2 lead before Malibu began clawing back. Consecutive goals by junior Riley Smoller started a four-goal Malibu run, which was continued with clutch goals by junior Cooper McDonnell (on a great feed from junior Sean Ryan) and junior Patrick Wetton.  

Sophomore Brennan Cassone was the Sharks' dominant player in the second half, winning every faceoff, clearing the ball regularly and dominating the midfield. His effort kept Malibu within striking distance.

Oak Park's potent and balanced offense kept answering every Malibu surge to maintain the lead. Wetton's third goal with 1:30 remaining in the fourth quarter tied the game at 11-11. Cassone won another face off to start the extra period, which led to the game-winning score.

Junior Jake Wexler was rock solid in the goal, recording 12 saves. The Sharks played great team defense, anchored by junior Will Rosenthal (holding last season's league MVP to just three points), freshman Elliott Quartz and sophomore George Savas. Smoller finished with four goals, junior midfielder Chris Sol netted two scores and Conrad and Ryan each had one goal and two assists. McDonnell added an assist and Cassone finished with two assists. 

Malibu's next game is at home on Wednesday against Agoura at 4 p.m. All are welcome to cheer on the team!

—Steve O'Neill, head coach of the Malibu High boys varsity lacrosse team