Their foot- and hand-speed sets them apart from other midfielders. They can change direction in a second - even at full speed - or just blow by defenders.
They can play anywhere on the offensive end of the field but are especially dangerous in the middle near the top of the restraining box because it forces a defense to cover the entire field. If you don't slide, the Brattons can burn you for goals.
Shamel has 30 goals and Rhamel nine, even though Rhamel missed extensive playing time this season with a back injury.
The Brattons have combined for 15 assists, so they can hurt you even if you do slide. They are multidimensional players.
"The Brattons were a handful, and we did not have an answer," Pietramala said. "They command a lot of attention. It's pick your poison."
Shamel Bratton said: "A lot of time when we are out there and [Rhamel] has the ball in the midfield, I think we create a lot of tough matchups for the opposing teams. Him playing well takes a little pressure off me and allows me to play off-ball more so that I can pass and dodge a lot more. He gives this team another option. Anytime we're out there, it makes it a real tough time for opposing defenses."
Virginia will play Cornell in the semifinals Saturday. If you want to see a team of athletes, check out Cornell. The Big Red will outrun and out-hustle most teams. The squad likes to play physically, but Cornell also has a lot of one-dimensional athletes at midfield.
One of Cornell's priorities will be to slow the Brattons, who are more athletic, and more importantly, better all-around lacrosse players. It's about time they finally got the recognition.
