The Maine Maritime Academy football team’s 2017 campaign got off to a shaky start Saturday, as the Mariners fell to SUNY-Maritime 59-13 in a non-conference mutual season opener in Throggs Neck, New York..
Coach Chris McKenney’s Mariners were limited to only 230 yards of total offense as the Privateers jumped out to a 23-0 first-quarter lead.
SUNY quarterback Thomas Wright opened the scoring with a one-yard touchdown yard, and on MMA’s first drive, the Privateers converted a safety for a 9-0 edge.
The Privateers extended their lead to 40-0 by halftime and led 52-0 before the Mariners finally got on the board late in the third quarter.
Jordan Susi’s 25-yard touchdown reception allowed the Mariners to avoid a shutout, while Zackery Bannon and Mason Kaserman connected on a 62-yard touchdown pass for MMA’s other score.
James Ferrar led MMA in rushing with 46 yards on 12 carries while Andrew Cavanaugh compiled nine tackles. Deanie Cunningham recorded eight tackles and Andrew Plata seven.
Wright paced SUNY’s offense with 214 yards passing and three touchdowns and 30 yards rushing. Brandon Drumgole compiled 101 yards on five catches with two touchdowns.
MMA has next weekend off before hosting rival Massachusetts Maritime Academy on Sept. 16 for the Admiral’s Cup.