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Brian Langtry is a leader for the Outlaws |
By: Jessica Fadale
Denver Outlaws at Washington Bayhawks
Saturday, July 18th at 7 PM ET
Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, MD
After a bye week for both teams, the Denver Outlaws (6-2) will travel to Annapolis, Maryland to take on the Washington Bayhawks (5-3). The last time these two teams met, Denver emerged victorious by a score of 20-16. However, since that meeting in week three, both teams have changed drastically.
Last Week:
Putting it Behind Them
On a July Fourth event, the Denver Outlaws lost to the Boston Cannons in a heartbreaking one-goal defeat in front of their home crowd. It was the Outlaws first loss since week one of the season.
After getting off to a strong start, the Outlaws were stopped in their tracks by the Cannon’s big guns Kyle Sweeney, Ryan Boyle, and Paul Rabil. While the game went back-and-forth throughout the remaining quarters, it was Boston that ultimately sealed the deal.
“I think it helps bring us back to reality a little bit,” said Coach Brian Reese about the recent loss. “It wasn't really emotional, but just helps us realize that you need to bring your ‘A’ game every night.”
Reflecting on their latest loss, Coach Reese believes that his team did not play their best offensive or defensive game.
“We didn't move the ball or our feet off ball enough on offense. We settled for decent shots instead of working to get great shots,” said Coach Reese. “Defensively, we had a few mental lapses. Some times we played bad individual defense and some times we played poor team defense.”
In the upcoming meeting with the Bayhawks, the Outlaws are going to be sure not to take this comeback team lightly.
Two in the Bag
The Bayhawks recently picked up their second victory in a row, showing signs of life late in the season. After taking down Chicago in week seven and crushing Long Island on the Fourth of July by a decisive score of 14-7, the Bayhawks are on a roll.
Coach John Tucker talked about how he attributes the turnaround to having a consistent lineup. Both the players and the coaches have a better understanding of the roles of each player. He also credits the victory to improved management of the clock as well as limiting the number of turnovers.
Facing the top team in the league, the Bayhawks know this one is going to be a battle.
“It’s going to be tough to control their offense,” said Coach Tucker about facing the Denver attack. “We need to play at a slower pace to have any chance for success.”
After two straight weeks of triumph, the Bayhawks are going to put up a fight against the leading Denver Outlaws.
