The biggest X-factor in last Saturday’s matchup between the Utah Archers and Philadelphia Waterdogs may have been the wet grass fields. It was hard for the players to maintain balance, and the balance of the game may have tipped early in the first half when Philly goalie Matt DeLuca looked to have twisted his leg making a save, and having to leave the game with a lower body injury. Backup Sean Byrne would come in for DeLuca ready to face a hungry Archers team. However, with this being just the second time Byrne took the field in a game, the experienced players on the Archers took full advantage of the rookie, smelling blood in the water.
Archers with another statement game
Connor Fields had a huge impact with four goals. Tre Leclaire had nine points on three goals, two 2-point goals, and two assists. Sam King and Mac O’Keefe also put up a pair of goals each as the Archers won 18-8 in a game that was delayed in the third quarter by heavy rains. Give this Archers team credit – they limited the Waterdogs top scorer CJ Kirst to just one goal on the night. Now the Archers, with back-to-back statement wins, will head into Denver in Week 10 for matchups with both the Outlaws and the Maryland Whipsnakes, and a chance to take the lead in the Western Conference.
Waterdogs still have time to gel on both sides of the ball
Unfortunately for Philly, losing a key part of your defense is hard to overcome. Byrne stopped 8 of 21 shots in relief of DeLuca, and hopefully the extra reps will pay off in Week 10. The Waterdogs will also have a doubleheader in Denver, playing the New York Atlas and the Outlaws. I liked seeing Michael Sowers getting more involved on the score sheet with a hat trick. However, that was offset by the midfield corps managing just five points on the night – three goals and two assists, with Josh Yago and Connor Kelly being held scoreless. The Waterdogs have since signed goaltender Tim Troutner, and hope DeLuca will be ready to return in 3-4 weeks, possibly for a playoff run.
