California Black Bears Bounce Over Florida Smash: The California Black Bears made a victorious return to form on Sunday afternoon at MLP Virginia Beach, avenging a previous DreamBreaker loss with a narrow 3-2 victory over the Florida Smash. This matchup was a significant turning point for the Black Bears, who had suffered a heartbreaking defeat just two days prior against the Atlanta Bouncers, where they squandered a commanding 20-11 lead.
The loss was a bitter pill to swallow, but the opportunity for redemption was ripe as they faced the Smash, a team they had gone 2-2 against in four doubles games.
Key Contributions from New Talent
Chris Haworth, making his debut in the MLP after being picked up during Waiver Period 2, emerged as a key player in this match. His performance was crucial in turning the tide for the Black Bears. Haworth showed his skills by outscoring Donald Young 10-4 in their singles matchup and clinching the final point, leading California to a 26-24 victory in the DreamBreaker round. His contributions not only secured the win but also solidified his place on the team.
“It feels really good to have a different outcome from the last DreamBreaker. We lost one DreamBreaker on Friday, which was tough because I know I’m known for my singles, so I felt like I kind of let the team down there. Getting past that point in this one felt really good.” – (Haworth)
His relief was noticeable, marking a significant moment in his inaugural tournament experience.
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The Match Breakdown
The match was tightly contested, with each game swinging back and forth, showing the skill and tenacity of both teams. The Black Bears took the lead early in the men’s doubles match, where Chris Haworth and Brandon French defeated Donald Young and Travis Rettenmaier with a decisive score of 25-18. This victory set a positive tone for California, building momentum as they continued through the match.
However, the Florida Smash fought back in the women’s doubles, where Amanda Hendry and Genie Erokhina faced off against Christa Gecheva and Martina Frantova. This game was a nail-biter, ending with the Smash edging out the Black Bears 26-24. The back-and-forth nature of the match added excitement, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Decisive Moments
In the mixed doubles events, California’s Brandon French and Genie Erokhina managed to reclaim the lead, defeating Travis Rettenmaier and Martina Frantova with a close score of 25-23. Yet, the Smash struck back once more in the subsequent mixed doubles match, as Chris Haworth and Amanda Hendry fell to Donald Young and Christa Gecheva, losing 21-25.
With the overall match tied at 2-2, the stage was set for a dramatic DreamBreaker showdown. The Black Bears, undeterred by their earlier setback, focused on executing their game plan. Haworth’s performance shone through, and with his final point secured, California emerged victorious with a DreamBreaker score of 26-24.
Match Results
California Black Bears 3-2 Florida Smash
- Men’s Doubles:
- Chris Haworth / Brandon French: 25
- Donald Young / Travis Rettenmaier: 18
- Women’s Doubles:
- Amanda Hendry / Genie Erokhina: 24
- Christa Gecheva / Martina Frantova: 26
- Mixed Doubles:
- Brandon French / Genie Erokhina: 25
- Travis Rettenmaier / Martina Frantova: 23
- Mixed Doubles:
- Chris Haworth / Amanda Hendry: 21
- Donald Young / Christa Gecheva: 25
- DreamBreaker:
- California Black Bears: 26
- Florida Smash: 24
News in Brief: California Black Bears Bounce Over Florida Smash
The California Black Bears redeemed themselves with a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Florida Smash in MLP Virginia Beach. After a disappointing loss to the Atlanta Bouncers earlier in the week, the Black Bears rallied back, showing strong performances in the doubles and the decisive DreamBreaker.
Chris Haworth, making his MLP debut, played a pivotal role, outscoring his opponent and securing the final point.
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