Critical game for Roughnecks
February 18, 2004 - National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Calgary Roughnecks News Release
The Calgary Roughnecks go into Friday's game with San Jose knowing a win is essential if they are to maintain a viable challenge for the National Lacrosse League championship.
If they'd beaten Colorado on Saturday, they'd have gone to the top of the NLL with a 5-2 record. But a late collapse against the Mammoth, which saw them lose in overtime, leaves them at 4-3 (exactly the same as the Stealth) and well within the reach of the rest of the West Division.
"It is absolutely critical we win against San Jose," said Head Coach Chris Hall.
"As best as we can we should forget about Colorado (6-2) and concentrate on putting distance between ourselves and everyone else in our division. If we beat the others, Colorado will eventually come back to us."
But San Jose will be no walk-over. Five of their seven games have been on the road and among their victims have been the mighty Mammoth.
"This is a good team," said Hall. "Two years ago, as the Albany Attack, they had the beast record in the regular season (14-2). Most of that side is still together. We cannot afford to relax or they'll be all over us."
Hall felt the Roughnecks played well for all but the last seven minutes against Colorado, but then fell victim to too many mistakes.
"We have to make sure we don't lose our focus, concentration and energy in the late stages," said Hall. "We still don't know how to drive the final nail in the coffin. That's something all champions learn."
National Lacrosse League Stories from February 18, 2004
- Tavares named Overall Player of the Week - NLL
- Wings To Conduct Six-Week Learn To Play Lacrosse Clinics At Sovereign Bank Flyer Skate Zone At Voorh - Philadelphia Wings
- Chrysler returns behind Bandits' bench - Buffalo Bandits
- Critical game for Roughnecks - Calgary Roughnecks
- Bandits trade Sanderson for first round selection - Buffalo Bandits
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