OVERLAND PARK, KS - Saturday was day one of of MLP Kansas City. It was a hot day and the play was hotter. There were six matches, with teams jockeying for playoff position.

 

Who made a move? Who missed their chance?

 

1. The best were playing. The top 3 teams, Dallas, Texas, and St. Louis, were all in action and are competing for the two playoff byes. Every point counts in that battle. 

 

2. St. Louis earned five points to lead the day, with a 3-2 Dreambreaker win over Dallas (21-16 in the DB), and a 3-1 win over Columbus. Texas and Dallas both gained three points.

 

 

3. Playoff contenders miss their opportunities. New York and LA, both battling for one of the six playoff spots, had an opportunity to gain ground on Saturday. NY eked out a Dreambreaker win over last ranked Utah. NY gained two points for the win, but as most teams are beating Utah, it had been an opportunity to gain a much needed three points.  However, it was worse for LA. LA also faced Utah, but lost 3-1, gaining zero points. LA now drops to the seventh spot, one rung out of the playoff picture.

 

4. Several players had big days. JW Johnson, Anna Bright, and Connor Garnett all went 4-0 on the day.

 

5. On the other hand, it was not a good day for Jack Sock, who went 0-2, losing 25-17 and 25-12. Blaine Hovenier, who played so well in Salt Lake City, returned to Earth going 0-2, losing 25-14, and 25-13.

 

 

Sunday will have six more matches. Orlando plays twice, in what is probably their last chance to get back into playoff contention. LA also plays twice, and needs some wins to get back into the top six. It is likely to be another warm day, with plenty of fast action on the court. Tune in to see who can make their playoff push.

 

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