Bayhawks Lose for First Time in Franchise History to Machine
Published on July 25, 2009 under Major League Lacrosse (MLL)
Chesapeake Bayhawks News Release
Chicago, IL - The Washington Bayhawks (3-7) of Major League Lacrosse (MLL) had never lost to the Chicago Machine (3-7) in franchise history. With the Bayhawks already chasing one of the last spots for the New Balance Championship Weekend, the Machine finally got their win. The Bayhawks gave up eight goals in the second quarter and could never catch up, losing by a final score of 18-11 on Saturday night at Toyota Park in Chicago.
"It was a disappointing effort," said Bayhawks Head Coach John Tucker following the game. "We came out flat, and got too far behind. I thought we played better in the second half, but it's hard to win games when you give up eight goals in a quarter."
The Bayhawks jumped out to the early lead to start the game. Kevin Huntley scored from just inside the two-point arc for the Bayhawks. Machine Goalie Mike Gabel looked strong after that with several point blank saves from just outside the crease, and the Machine used the momentum to tie the game at 1-1. Chicago continued to pressure the Bayhawks defense and take advantage of several Bayhawks turnovers. The Machine scored with four minutes left in the quarter to give Chicago a 2-1 advantage and would not relinquish the lead the rest of the night. Late in the quarter Bayhawks Midfielder Dan Groot got his feet tangled with Chicago's Matt Striebel and twisted his ankle going to the ground. He would not return and was taken to the hospital for X-rays following the game.
The second quarter was dominated by the Machine. Chicago scored the first four goals before the Bayhawks finally ended a 24 minute scoreless streak. Ben Hunt netted the Bayhawks goal scoring for the fourth straight game. Chicago responded quickly, and the two teams traded another set of goals before the Machine increased the margin to 9-3. Ben Rubeor netted the Bayhawks fourth goal, but Chicago would score again to take a 10-4 lead into the locker room. Gabel continued to shine for the Machine stopping 11 of the 15 shots he faced in the first half. He went on to make 23 saves on 34 shots faced and earned Bud Light Game MVP honors.
The Bayhawks woke up early in the third quarter. The team came out of the locker room playing more aggressively on the defensive end and saw the offense get ignited. Andrew "Buggs" Combs scored twice, and rookie Matt Abbott netted his second career goal on a feed from fellow rookie Danny Glading to cut the lead to 11-7. But the Machine turned it around in the second half of the quarter increasing the lead back to seven at 14-7. Glading closed the quarter with his first tally since the previous meeting with Chicago to cut the lead to six. He finished with one goal and four assists on the game tying a career high in points.
Huntley opened the third quarter with his second goal of the game, but Chicago scored three straight goals to go up 17-9 and take their largest lead. Abbott responded with his second goal to chip away at the score. Midway through the final stanza, Bayhawks Midfielder Kyle Dixon was hit hard while trying to clear the ball. Following the play, Dixon retaliated, slashing Kevin Levielle and taking a five minute unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. After both teams exchanged words, Combs completed his hat trick, and the Bayhawks crept within six at 17-11. Chicago would score once more for the final score of 18-11.
The Bayhawks needed a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. The loss alone doesn't eliminate the Bayhawks from postseason contention, but the Bayhawks will have to wait and receive help from around the MLL. Denver clinched the first playoff spot last week after defeating the Bayhawks, and Toronto clinched a spot with their win over the Boston Cannons Thursday night. Chicago's win assured the Cannons of the third playoff spot. The Long Island Lizards have the clearest path to the fourth and final spot, but will need to win one more game to earn it. The Lizards played the Denver Outlaws Saturday night in Denver.
The Bayhawks return to Annapolis for their home game finale on Saturday, August 1st at 7:00 PM EST against the Chicago Machine. The game will be Fan Appreciation Night, and all fans can use any unused tickets from prior games to come to the August 1st game. Tickets are still available as well. To reserve your tickets, contact the Bayhawks ticket office at 866-99-HAWKS (42957) or by going to the Bayhawks website at www.washingtonbayhawks.com.
Major League Lacrosse Stories from July 25, 2009
- Bayhawks Lose for First Time in Franchise History to Machine - Chesapeake Bayhawks
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
