The Hamilton Nationals’ 13-12 win over the Ohio Machine may not have clinched them their playoff berth, but it did set the team record for wins in a season. The Nationals earned their eighth victory of the season, surpassing the mark set in 2009 and 2011. Not only did the team break a record but there were several players that hit milestones as well.
Joe Walters opened up the game with back-to-back goals before Martin Cahill put in two to keep the Nationals goal streak going. Kevin Cunningham and Kevin Crowley also put in a goal apiece to give Hamilton a 6-0 lead.
Cody Jamieson had a career best six points with his two goals and four assists. Walters and Jamieson, who also play together for the Rochester Knighthawks, hooked up in the fourth quarter. Walters connected with Jamieson for his 100th assist of his career.
Kevin Crowley’s two-point game not only continued his point streak to 26, but his second goal was his 100th career point. Crowley just came off of the All-Star Game, where he earned the MVP with a five-point game. Crowley is currently in third in points with 43 and second in goals with 31.
Dillon Ward made the second start of his career for the Nationals on Saturday. Ward held the Machine off for nearly 20 minutes before Ohio rookie Logan Schuss found the back of the net to get the Machine on the board. Ward, who made 17 saves, improved to 1-1.
As for the playoffs, the Nationals can clinch a playoff berth with a win or a Charlotte loss Saturday. The last time the Nationals were in the playoffs was in 2011, when they went to the Championship and lost by one to Boston. In 2009, the Nationals won the MLL Championship, defeating Denver 9-8.
The Nationals next game will be on Saturday, July 27th at Ron Joyce Stadium against the Boston Cannons. For tickets call 905-525-NATS (6287).
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