Bayhawks Win The MLL Championship
Attackmen John Grant, Jr andDrew Westervelt combined for eight points to lead an opportunistic offense while goalkeeper Kip Turner recorded 14 saves to anchor a suffocating defense as the Chesapeake Bayhawks captured the fifth Major League Lacrosse Championship in franchise history with a 10-9 victory over the Charlotte Hounds in front of 3,792 fans at PPL Park in Chester, Pa.
Grant scored all four of his goals in spectacular fashion while Westervelt added a hat trick and an assist as Chesapeake secured it second straight crown. Brendan Kelly has built a dynasty since taking over as owner, leading the Bayhawks to titles in three of his four years at the helm. Dave Cottle has also been part of all three championships, serving as a consultant in 2010 and as president and head coach the last two years.
“It’s not just me, it’s the entire group from Coach Cottle on down. Everybody gives their heart and soul, whether active roster players or practice squad players,” Kelly said. “We’re trying to build the greatest organization in MLL history and I think we’re well on our way to doing that. I’m just really proud of the front office, the coaching staff and the players. To win three championships in four years is really unbelievable.”
MY TAKE: Another Championship for owner Brendan Kelly and Head Coach Dave Cottle!!!! It’s all about organization and the Bayhawks are 1st class all the way.
Cottle just gets what has to be done to win. Dave never gets ruffled about regular season losses –he just has his guys learn from the mistakes. He fills the team with players who have won titles before and let’s nature take its course. The late season addition of Casey Powell was brilliant and the team reaped the rewards of Casey’s tremendous passing ability today. Cottle slowly worked Jesse Bernhardt into the lineup and by year’s end the Maryland All American was a force on defense.
The power of the attack held firm today. For the Hounds, they certainly are the team of the future especially with the blossoming of Ryan Young who scored 4 times today.
It will be interesting to see how Cottle creates a 2014 team since there is some age on the Bayhawks. Who shall return? Remember this— Cottle just gets it.
Well done Bayhawks!!!
wayne
I was thinking the wheels almost came off the bus as the Bayhawks seemed to be caught from behind by the Hounds who I thought were going to tie the score at 9.
The Hawks had the finishing kick and stretched the lead. It was good to see a local team take another national sporting title.
· 11/12/2019