MKE WAVE RETURN TO ACTION AFTER 643 DAY HIATUS

MKE WAVE RETURN TO ACTION AFTER 643 DAY HIATUS;
DROP SEASON OPENER IN BALTIMORE SATURDAY NIGHT.

The last time the 7-time champs were on the field was against the Orlando SeaWolves, Sunday, March 8th, 2020 at UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena. 

1 year, 9 months and 3 days later they returned to action for the 2021-2022 season opener at SECU Arena in Towson, Maryland and lost to the rival Baltimore Blast in overtime.

Final score: Milwaukee Wave 5, Baltimore Blast 6. F/OT
 BOXSCORE | GAMESHEET | WATCH AGAIN

 “Just being back playing again feels like a win.” said Head Coach Giuliano Oliviero. “ To do what we love and have a passion to do, we are extremely blessed, but to lose in overtime is difficult.” 

Wave Forward #26 Ian Bennett scored four goals with assists from Luan Oliveira and Matthew Yang. Midfielder #3 Gordy Gurson scored his first career Wave goal with help from Marcio Leite in the 4th quarter.

“We knew it was going to be a battle but some of the calls were tough,” said Bennett. “We just need to learn from it and stop making stupid mistakes.” 

A total of four penalties were handed to Milwaukee in the 4th quarter in the span of 8 minutes. Three, 2-minute blue cards, (Boarding, Too Many Men, Dangerous Play) and one, five minute yellow card for Dissent. 

“Did we agree with some of the calls, of course,” said Oliviero. “But there were a couple of fouls before the penalties that were missed and that took a lot of energy out of our guys. Full credit to them though for they way they bounced back and got the game into overtime. Lots of positives tonight despite the loss.” 

The Wave will head back to Milwaukee and prepare for the home opener Saturday, December 18th at UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena. First Kick is scheduled for 4:05pm.

“I’m excited to play in front of our families, friends and fans on Saturday,” said Bennett. “I know all the guys are too!”

Tickets for this Saturday’s game against the rival Baltimore Blast at UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena are on sale at the box office or at MilwaukeeWave.com