The Denver Outlaws defeated the New York Atlas 32-22 on Friday in the opening game of the PLL Championship Series at The St. James in Springfield, Virginia. In a rematch of last summer's PLL Championship, the Outlaws produced an offensive showcase, with their 32 points being the second most ever scored in a single Championship Series game.
The Outlaws (1-0) were powered by a balanced and explosive attack, with eight different players scoring goals. Veteran Justin Anderson and rookie Fulton Bayman led the charge. Anderson had nine points, and his seven goals, one of which was a 2-pointer, were one shy of the single-game Championship Series record. Bayman was dynamic in his professional debut, tallying nine points on five goals, including a 2-pointer, and a team-high three assists. Graham Bundy Jr. contributed three 2-point goals, and Jack VanOverbeke added five points from three goals (including a 2-pointer) and an assist. Zach Geddes also had a hat trick, and Ryan Cohen and Lance Madonna each scored two goals. Goaltender Logan McNaney made seven saves in the first half, and Owen McElroy added five saves in the second half to secure the win.
Despite the loss, the Atlas (0-1) had a prolific offensive outing from Matt Traynor, who finished with a game-high 10 points on six goals (with one 2-pointer) and three assists. Kyle Jackson scored four goals for the Atlas, and Michael Rexroad, Jack Korus and Miles Jones each contributed two goals. Brian Costabile, who entered the tournament as one of the format's most decorated players, was limited to a 2-point goal and an assist. Chris Davis, Chet Comizio and Max Krevsky also added a goal apiece for New York.
Denver held a 15-10 lead at halftime before pulling away in the second half. The Atlas struggled to contain the Outlaws' potent long-range shooting, allowing six 2-pointers. New York starting goaltender Will Mark posted a 24% save percentage before being replaced in the fourth quarter by Brian Phipps. Phipps, who came out of retirement for the tournament, made one save and allowed seven goals in the final period.
Up next: Both teams are back in action Saturday. The Outlaws face the California Redwoods at 6:30 p.m. ET, and the Atlas face the Carolina Chaos at 8:30 p.m. ET.
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