In a shocking final score the Canadians defeated Team USA 8-5 in the FIL World Lacrosse Championship Final.
Coming into the game the US had looked unstoppable going 6-0 and defeating Canada earlier in the tournament 10-6. Canada had an excellent strategy which centered around ball control and excellent play from goalie Dillon Ward (tournament MVP). By holding the ball the US never seemed to be comfortable or able to get into rhythm as they trailed 8-2 in the fourth quarter. The US found a spark as they went on a three goal run mid way through the final quarter but it was to little to late. Kevin Crowley had an excellent game for Canada as he scored 5 goals on the night.
(ARTICLES, PHOTOS, AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP)
This US team was arguably the greatest ever assembled on paper. This game will go down as one, if not the, biggest upsets in international lacrosse. Tip of the cap to Canada who played a great game, had an excellent coaching strategy, and never seemed to be intimidated by the US team.
2014 FIL World Championship - All-World Team
Attack
Curtis Dickson - Canada
Rob Pannell - United States
Lyle Thompson - Iroquois Nationals
Midfield
Paul Rabil - United States
Jeremy Thompson - Iroquois
David Lawson - United States
Defense
Tucker Durkin - United States
Brodie Merrill - Canada
Kyle Rubisch - Canada
Goalkeeper
Dillon Ward - Canada
The game will bring to light a larger issue in the sport of lacrosse which is stalling or the need for a shot clock. The NCAA rules committee meets in August and this most likely goes from a known issue to the top of their list. The Canadians played within the rules and the clock killing style definitely was a huge part of their game plan. For the international game to be on its biggest stage and have a team hold the ball continually as long as they did is not good for attracting people new to the sport.
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