SPARKS, Md. — The Atlas Cup saw an exhilarating day of lacrosse as Canada faced off against the USA and the Haudenosaunee clashed with Puerto Rico.
The Canadian team showcased their prowess in sixes during a thrilling match against the United States, ultimately winning 23-18 in front of a sellout crowd at Tierney Field.
Jeff Teat, who stunned spectators with an impressive six-goal performance, highlighted the potential of the Canadian player pool. Teat acknowledged the progress the team is making as they navigate the intricacies of sixes lacrosse.
“We’re trying to figure it out as much as anybody else,” said Teat. “We have a great player pool with a lot of veterans in the mix and a group of younger guys. We’re trying to test out different things and see what works.”
Teat’s contributions were felt early in the game, as he scored all six of his goals in the first half. In addition to his scoring ability, Teat’s presence on the field created opportunities for his teammates, allowing Canada to shoot an impressive 62 percent from the field, outpacing the USA’s efficiency.
“We grew up playing box lacrosse,” Teat explained, emphasizing how that background benefits their gameplay.
The first half showed a competitive edge, with Canada leading 13-8, largely due to their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. The USA, while putting up a strong offensive front, could not reduce the gap to fewer than four goals.
The Americans, featuring standout players Matt Brandau and Coulter Mackesy, made their presence felt with their sharp shooting skills, each contributing four goals.
Despite their efforts, mistakes such as a turnover during an extra-man possession hampered their momentum. As they struggled to convert chances, Canada efficiently built on their lead, ultimately securing the victory.
In a critical moment with under two minutes remaining, the USA aimed to cut Canada’s lead to three. However, a miscommunication led to a turnover, allowing Willem Firth to score on a fast break, effectively sealing the game in Canada’s favor.
Firth’s contributions to the game were notable, finishing with two goals and five assists alongside Tre Leclaire, who added four goals of his own. Nonetheless, Teat earned the Capelli Sport Player of the Game title due to his explosive first-half performance.
Connor Shellenberger of the USA praised Teat’s abilities: “When you can dodge, shoot from 8 to 10 yards and are also one of the best off-ball players in the world — yeah, it’s a good combination.”
Shellenberger, who also had a solid performance with a goal and four assists, reflected positively on the experience, stating, “It’s a great opportunity for us to get better. Hopefully we’ll keep building chemistry and keep learning the [sixes] game.”
In a separate matchup, the Haudenosaunee Nationals pulled away from Puerto Rico in a commanding 25-13 victory. After suffering in their opening game against Canada, the Haudenosaunee answered back with determination.
The game was defined by five-goal runs in both the start of the second and third quarters, as well as a five-goal surge to close out the match. Players Koleton Marquis, Jake Piseno, Obrigh Tallchief, and Stone Jacobs all had noteworthy performances, scoring four goals each. Marquis also earned the Capelli Sport Player of the Game honor with a total of four goals and five assists.
Defensively, goalie Jack VanValkenberg shone in the second half, making 18 key saves that helped solidify the Haudenosaunee’s lead.
The Haudenosaunee will conclude the Atlas Cup against the United States, promising a gripping contest.
As the tournament continues, lacrosse fans eagerly await the final games, where teams will strive for supremacy on the field at this esteemed event.
In the earlier matches of the Atlas Cup, Canada’s women also showcased their strength, defeating Puerto Rico 22-8. The USA women’s team followed suit with a convincing 18-5 victory over the Haudenosaunee, reflecting the competitive nature of the tournament across all divisions.
The final day of the Atlas Cup is set to feature several anticipated matchups, with teams vying for the last chance to leave their mark on this tournament.
As excitement builds, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the Atlas Cup, with teams eager to demonstrate their growth and skill as they prepare for future international competitions.
image source from：usalacrosse
