16x9_Game18_Matchup

Chaos vs. Archers: Semifinals Preview

By Jerome Taylor | Aug 5, 2020

Chaos proved many things in their victory over Chrome; the most important thing was that group play records are meaningless. Chaos earned their first win of 2020 explosively, winning 19-14. 

For the Archers, who were red hot in group play, the reemergence of Tom Schreiber in an 11-9 win over Atlas makes them even more dangerous. 

Chaos and the Archers will look to continue their march to the Championship Game when they take each other on in a semifinal matchup on Thursday at 8 pm ET on NBC Sports Gold.


Storylines to Watch

Chaos’ New-Look Offense
In Chaos’ victory over Chrome, the team looked different, not only on the scoreboard but also on the field. At attack, coach Andy Towers moved Connor Fields (who led the team in points last year) to the bench.

The new-look team proved to be more versatile and high powered.

They set the franchise and tournament record for goals scored in a single game. This was highlighted by a seven-point afternoon from Josh Byrne, with Dhane Smith and Jake Froccaro adding six points, respectively.

This new offense has only been on tape once, so the Archers will have their work cut out for them trying to figure out the new-look Chaos.

Schreiby’s Back
The Archers also added something to their offense in the Elimination Round. It came from last year’s Midfielder of the Year Tom Schreiber.

Schreiber was mostly quiet throughout group play, but it was apparent against Atlas that ‘Captain America’ had finally exposed himself to some Vita-Rays.

Schreiber had five points on Tuesday. Production like that from the midfield paired with a Grant Ament-led attack is a terrifying prospect for opposing defenses.

Goalie Situation
Archers have been running a two-goalie system throughout the Championship Series. But in the Atlas’ matchup, Drew Adams was the sole man between the pipes due to an Adam Ghitelman injury.

Ghitelman was not on the official PLL injury report as of Wednesday. This will leave Chaos wondering whether Archers will go back to the two-person approach or stick with Adams through the remainder of the Championship Series.


Ramifications 

This game will put one of these teams in the championship. While the other side can begin to look back at one of the most unusual experiences in their professional careers.

If Chaos wins, it will be a massive turnaround from group play. For the Archers, a win would put them on a path for a possible rematch with the Whipsnakes. 

With a championship berth on the line and the talent on the field, this game will be loaded with fireworks, catch the action on Thursday at 8 pm ET on NBCSports Gold.