Sparks, MD- From October 13-15, the Canadian Men’s National Field team travelled to compete in the 2023 Fall Classic, hosted by US lacrosse. Set to face USA Friday night at 7:30, and perennial NCAA powerhouse Penn State Saturday night.
The Men’s National team that kicked off against a very talented USA on Friday night. Canada jumped out to an early lead thanks to quick goals from Ross Scott. The Americans were not going to shy away though, as the duo of Asher Nolting and Mac O’Keefe played a big role in USA coming back and taking a 6-4 lead over Canada at the half. The third quarter went Canada’s way as they were able to tie the game going into the final frame. USA went up two goals twice in the 4th, before Canada was able to cut the lead to one with a minute left. Canada regained possession of the ball and called a timeout with 40 seconds left. Coach Tracey Kelusky drew up the offence for Canada, which ultimately ended in Canadian star getting his first of the night off a slick behind the back pass from Peshko. Canada had sent the game to overtime with only a few seconds left on the clock. In overtime it was once again Dyson Williams who played the role of hero for Canada. Finishing a quick stick goal off the pass from Sam English. It capped off an epic second half comeback, in what turned out to be Canada’s first win against USA in field lacrosse since the 2014 Gold Medal final from the Denver World Championships.
It was then onto to Saturday for the men vs Penn State. The Nittany Lions proved to be more than a legitimate test for Canada, as the men trailed by an identical 6-4 score at half, just like they did against the Americans. Once again it would take a second half comeback to propel Canada to the victory, which is exactly what they did. A well balanced attack saw Mike Robinson, and Sam English really push the offence for Team Canada, and help Canada overcome Penn State with a 9-7 win. Both goalies, Caleb Creasor, and Drake Porter were fantastic in the cage for Canada, holding Penn State to only 7.
It was an action packed weekend that helped Lacrosse Canada gain lots of momentum. The Men were able to overcome the Americans for the first time in 9 years, as Canada looks to start a new streak against are friends south of the border.
About Lacrosse Canada
Founded in 1867, Lacrosse Canada is the governing body responsible for all aspects of lacrosse in Canada. Our organization is comprised of 11 Member Associations representing nearly 60,000 participants, including coaches, officials, and athletes of all ages and abilities. Lacrosse Canada’s mission is to honour the sport of lacrosse and its unique nation-building heritage, by engaging our members, leading our partners, and providing opportunities for all Canadians to participate. Lacrosse Canada oversees the delivery of numerous national championships and the participation of Team Canada at all international events sanctioned by World Lacrosse. Lacrosse Canada is proud to be affiliated with partners that share the same vision and values, including our corporate partners – Nike, CoachThem, Gait, Cascade, Normatec, Zoll, Signature Lacrosse, and Baron Rings – as well as our funding partners the Government of Canada, the Coaching Association of Canada, and the Canadian Lacrosse Foundation.
For more information, please contact:
Kealan Pilon
Communications Coordinator
Lacrosse Canada
Email: kealan@lacrosse.ca
