East bounces back, beats defending Class C champion
by PATRICK J. NAGY Reporter

The Williamsville East boys lacrosse team is finding out early in the season how to overcome a tough loss.

The Flames shrugged off an 8-7 double-overtime defeat to Lancaster on April 2 with home victories over defending Section VI Class C champion East Aurora, 6-2, on April 7 and Lockport, 8-1, on April 8.

"I'm pleased with what we're starting to do," said East coach Ed Greenway.

"We're playing more unselfishly, possessing the ball and doing the little things that are so important for the game. The kids are also starting to figure out their roles for the good of the team."

East was able to dictate play to East Aurora from the opening draw thanks to the outstanding play at the faceoff circle by Zach Stubbendeck. The senior won 13 of 14 faceoffs. Greenway also lauded the work of Stubbendeck's wingers, seniors Jay Winzenried and Michael Brooks. Stubbendeck also scored the first two goals of his career.

Peter Duggan and Austin Weil each also scored twice for the Flames against East Aurora.

Greenway also liked the defensive positioning from seniors Rashaun Durden, Ryan Dobos, Josh Roetzer and Brian Wallden.

Senior goalie Ryan Sheehan made 11 saves.

East jumped out to a 4-0 lead on Lockport after the first quarter and led, 6-0, at halftime.

Weil and senior Blake Dougherty led the East offense with four points each. Weil had three goals and an assist. Dougherty added four assists.

Duggan scored twice. Juniors Derek Frost and Mike Faltisco and senior Brad Teal also scored goals. Winzenried scooped up nine ground balls. Sheehan made nine saves.

"We evenly distributed the ball and did a better job of taking care of it," said Greenway. "We were smart on defense and didn't really give them any good opportunities."

After spring recess, East opens league play against Sweet Home at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23.

"I'm pleased with where we stand right now," said Greenway. "The big thing for us is taking care of ourselves during the break."