Five Things to Watch For Redwoods vs Waterdogs
Faceoff: TD Ierlan vs. James Reilly
Last week, Ierlan had the toughest individual matchup on the field, facing Trevor Baptiste at the stripe. Ierlan went 10-26 against the best business, but this week should be a more favorable matchup.
He’ll be facing off against James Reilly, a rookie from Georgetown, who’ll be making his professional debut.
Reilly will be starting in place of Zac Tucci after Tucci went 4-10 against Chaos. Of note, despite the PLL allowing faceoff athletes to start knees down, Reilly is expected to take faceoffs upright (at least to start the game) as he was required to do in college.
If Ierlan can get in a groove against Reilly, he’ll be able to get the ball up to his wings. Specifically, Montgomery, who as mentioned above, was a menace in transition last week.
More Offense Incoming
If Ierlan and company can win possession more at the stripe, the ‘Woods’ offense will have more opportunities to convert. Against Atlas, the offense was uber-efficient, with the highest shooting percentage in the league after week 1 (34.2%).
Despite being the first game of the John Grant Jr-led offense, the ‘Woods’ showcased impressive synergy, tallying nine assists on 13 goals.
Garnsey’s six goals may have been the primary driver in the win. But Wes Berg’s glove-like fit into the offense and his week 1 stat line — three goals and one assist on nine touches — underscores this group’s potential.
