Wilton Boys Lacrosse Preps For Showdown With Rout Of Warde

In preparation for Friday's highly-touted match against national powerhouse St. Anthony's, the Wilton boys lacrosse team came out strong Thursday against Warde.

Mike Francia and Dan Bartram combined for nine goals as the Warriors routed the Mustangs, 18-3,  to rebound from Tuesday's 11-10 overtime defeat to Greenwich.

Wilton certainly didn't get caught looking ahead to St. Anthony's, which drubbed four-time Connecticut state champion Fairfield Prep, 14-1, last Saturday.

"St. Anthony's was in a similar situation, having just lost to rival Chaminade (before spanking Fairfield Prep)," Wilton coach John Wiseman said.

Wiseman wasn't sure what St. Anthony's team will show up, but believed the Warriors needed a solid effort against Warde to go into that game on a high note. In that case, Wilton (1-1) should be well-prepared.

Francia recorded five goals and two assists, and Dan Bartram added four goals to lead the Warriors' attack.

Matt Kobyra and Jon Andrews each contributed  pair of goals for the Warriors, while Sean Carroll, Mike Serpa, Connor Mellio, Chris Nugent and Chris Barnett each had one. Nugent also chipped with a pair of assists.

Wiseman also raved about Mike Francia's efforts,  calling him "a great feeder (passer) who was always pushing the ball up the field."

Francia was pulled early in the second half when it was apparent the game was under control.

While at times Warde (0-4) was able to establish ball control in Wilton's zone, the Warriors were able to prevent many close in shots.  And once Wilton forced a turnover, the Warriors quickly gained possession in Warde's end.

Too often Warde's offensive zone turnovers led to quick breaks for the Warriors, most of which ended up in the back of Warde's net.  

Wilton dominated despite being without one of its anchor midfielders, co-captain Joe Reardon, who was resting with an injury.  However, Reardon said he hopes to play against St. Anthony's.