Lacrosse is a simple game: get the ball, keep the ball, score the ball. If you score more goals than the other team, you win the game… most of the time. 

Professional lacrosse has utilized a two-point line for years and, in its inaugural season, PLL implemented a new iteration of the arc that sees its peak sit just 15 yards away from the goal. It was designed to increase scoring, force defenses to stay alert, and allow any team -- no matter their deficit -- to stay competitive in a game.

There have been plenty of exciting moments in two-pointer history, but the rule’s momentum-shifting nature was on full display in the first-round matchup between Redwoods and Archers in the 2019 postseason. 

Prior to their fateful matchup, these teams were not known for their two-point shooting prowess. Redwoods had scored a league-worst two two-point goals, four behind the next closest team, Archers, who actually shot the fewest two-point shots in the league with 45. Redwoods finished the regular season with 46 two-point attempts, 17 of which came from the stick of midfielder Sergio Perkovic, though none of his chances converted.

As expected, the playoff battle was tightly contested early on and neither team had scored from long-range, until about halfway through the third quarter. The defense was playing tight to the goal when Redwoods attackman Ryder Garnsey flipped the ball to Perkovic streaking from the sideline. With the defense trapped in its zone, the midfielder launched a shot from beyond the arc.