Rebels Win Big in New York Cup Opener

The Albany Rebels cruised to a convincing win against the Syracuse Gaels 4-23 (35 points) to 2-12 (18 points) in the first leg of the New York Cup on Saturday at the Albany College of Pharmacy turf field.

Albany started slow, and was down 4-1 in the first 10 minutes, thanks in part to many missed scoring chances.

The Rebels settled down and began chipping away at the early deficit. Forward Ryan Moloney seemed automatic in the early going, scoring Albany’s first three points.

“Syracuse came out very strong but we kept ourselves in it,” Moloney said. “Ultimately, we were able to use our deep bench effectively to take control of the game and we didn’t look back.”

Midfielder Joe Donlon gave Albany its first big lift in the second quarter when he dropped a shot over the keeper’s head and into the top of the net from 30 yards out.

The Rebels tired out the Gaels by running at them through midfield and creating odd man rushes.

The Rebels shared the offensive load. Mark Adam had two goals and three points, Moloney and Cillian Flavin each had seven points, Joe Bradley had one goal and three points, Mike Lee had three points and Spencer Bassette had one point.

Rebels goalkeeper Mike Campbell made four saves and provided quality kickouts throughout the game.

After the match, Albany and Syracuse played a 10 a side friendly and then had food and drinks with fans at the Irish Hall on Ontario Street.

Albany and Syracuse will play the second leg of the New York Cup on August 4 in Syracuse.