The Premier Lacrosse League playoffs are officially here, and the first-round matchups did not disappoint. This weekend’s action delivered the intensity and energy fans expect when the season is on the line—highlighted by momentum swings, standout performances, and plenty of drama. With each team fighting to keep their championship hopes alive, the opening round set the tone for what should be an unforgettable postseason. From clutch goals to lockdown defense, the stakes have never been higher as the road to the title continues.
First Round: PLL Playoffs Deliver High Drama in First Round
Game 1: Redwoods vs. Chaos
The California Redwoods stormed back to beat the Carolina Chaos 14–12 in the PLL quarterfinals, punching their ticket to the semifinals. After falling behind 10–5 in the third quarter, the Redwoods ripped off a six-goal run led by rookie midfielder Andrew McAdorey, who finished with a career-high four goals. Fellow rookie Chris Kavanagh added three goals, while goalie Chayse Ierlan anchored the defense with a career-best 18 saves. The Chaos struggled with long scoring droughts in the second half, including a 10-minute stretch in the third quarter that allowed California to take control. Despite holding an 8–5 halftime lead, Carolina’s defense couldn’t contain the Redwoods’ surge. The win sets up a semifinal showdown between the Redwoods and the top-seeded Denver Outlaws on Labor Day. For the Chaos, the loss ends a season that exceeded expectations but showed room for growth on both sides of the ball.
Game 2: Waterdogs vs. Whipsnakes
The Philadelphia Waterdogs took down the Maryland Whipsnakes 14–12, earning a spot in the Eastern Conference championship game. Michael Sowers powered the offense with four goals and four assists, while Kieran McArdle delivered six goals, including two in the final minutes to secure the win. CJ Kirst also contributed four goals and an assist, and Matt DeLuca added 10 saves in net. Maryland kept the game close behind rookie Aidan Carroll’s four goals and Rob Pannell’s two goals and two assists, with Brad Smith adding a two-point strike to briefly shift momentum. Goalie Emmet Carroll recorded 13 saves for the Whipsnakes, but Maryland couldn’t slow Philadelphia’s attack in the fourth quarter. With the victory, the Waterdogs advance to face the top-seeded New York Atlas on Labor Day.
Image via Premier Lacrosse League