In a pulsating Premier Lacrosse League semifinal, the Utah Archers emerged triumphant over the Maryland Whipsnakes by a score of 29-25. The Archers’ high-octane offense proved too much for the Whipsnakes to handle as they booked their spot in the championship game.
Archers’ Offensive Onslaught
The Archers wasted no time asserting their dominance, pouring in 10 goals in a blistering first period. Mac O’Keefe spearheaded the attack, racking up 10 points on seven one-point goals and a two-pointer. His chemistry with Jackson Morrill (3G, 4A) was on full display as the duo carved up the Whipsnakes defense.
Contributions came from all over the field for Utah, with Jack VanOverbeke (4G, 2A) and Cole Williams (3G, 1A) also getting in on the scoring action. Goalie Nick Washuta was a brick wall between the pipes, turning aside 15 shots to backstop the victory.
Whipsnakes’ Valiant Effort
To their credit, the Whipsnakes refused to go down without a fight. Brad Smith had a monster game, tallying 8 points on a hat trick of two-pointers and a single goal. Matt Rambo (4G) and TJ Malone (2G, 2A) also had strong outings in a losing cause.
I’m proud of the fight our guys showed out there today. The Archers are a heck of a team and they had our number in this one. We’ll regroup and come back stronger next season.
— Maryland Whipsnakes Head Coach Jim Stagnitta
Up Next: Championship Showdown
With the win, the Archers advance to Monday’s title game where they await the winner of Sunday’s semifinal between the New York Atlas and Boston Cannons. Regardless of their opponent, Utah will enter the contest brimming with confidence after this statement victory.
The championship match is set for a 1:30 p.m. ET start and will be televised nationally on ESPN2 and streamed on ESPN+. Will the Archers’ electrifying attack propel them to their first title, or will a new challenger emerge to deny their coronation? Lacrosse fans won’t want to miss how this unforgettable PLL season concludes.
