Anthony Becht’s Luck Runs Out, Battlehawks Suffer First Loss to Defenders

It was only a matter of time until Anthony Becht’s luck at the start of his coaching career ran out.

On Sunday, Becht’s Battlehawks suffered their first loss of the season at the hands of the D.C. Defenders. This Week 3 loss comes after back-to-back comeback wins for St. Louis to open up the 2023 XFL season.

STL that one’s on me today! We will be better. We can’t wait to play in front of you all for our first home game next week. Bring the noise!! WE NEED YOU! Go @XFLBattlehawks⚔️

— Anthony Becht (@Anthony_Becht) March 5, 2023

Much like first two games, A.J. McCarron led his team back from an early deficit. St. Louis managed to take a 20-17 lead at one point in the second half after finding themselves in a quick 14-0 hole.

Take that in, @jakesmash004 👏
Score sits at 20-17 | @XFLBattlehawks lead.#XFL pic.twitter.com/jchs3yN0M5

— XFL (@XFL2023) March 5, 2023

But unfortunately for the Battlehawks, unlike the first two games, that advantage didn’t last long. The Defenders managed to dominate in the fourth quarter and rally back to secure a 34-28 victory.

The loss drops St. Louis to 2-1 and goes down as Becht’s first loss as a head coach. DC is now 3-0.

Next up for Becht and his team is a much-anticipated home game against the Arlington Renegades. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 pm ET on Sunday, March 12. The game will be televised nationally on ESPN2.