Roughnecks Face Critical weekend games
April 13, 2006 - National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Calgary Roughnecks News Release
Calgary, AB - As of today, all the Calgary Roughnecks (9-5) know is that they are in the 2006 National Lacrosse League playoffs.
But that's all they know. They do not know who their opponent is. They don't know whether they will play on the road or at the Saddledome. They don't even know the date.
That should will all become crystal clear by late Saturday following a home and home series with the Colorado Mammoth (8-6).
"It's in our own hands now," said Riggers Head Coach Chris Hall. "If we beat the Mammoth twice, we win the West and are guaranteed home floor advantage in the first two rounds.
"If we take one, we have to rely on either Edmonton or Minnesota to knock off Portland (9-5) to give us first place. But if we lose both, we'll probably end up third and have to start the playoffs on the road."
Calgary, Portland and Colorado are all in the playoffs. The fourth spot in the West will go to either Arizona (6-8) or San Jose (5-9) who also have a home and home series tomorrow and Saturday.
The rivalry between Calgary and the Mammoth is intense. In their only meeting so far this season, it took the Riggers an astonishing eight minutes of overtime to emerge 15-14 victors.
"There's no doubt it's a pivotal weekend," said Colorado's President and General Manager Steve Govett. "Fans of both clubs are anticipating an exciting time."
Hall added, "Both teams want home advantage in the playoffs very badly. What we have here is one of the premier rivalries in the league. But now is the time to showcase the wonderful athletes we have and put the chippiness away."
Barring unforeseen circumstances, Curtis Palidwor will be the Roughnecks goalie in both games.
Govett said his All Star netminder Gee Nash suffered a recent concussion and is awaiting the all clear from the club's doctor.
"It will be a game day decision (whether Nash dresses)," he said.
Ironically, if Nash cannot play, his likely replacement will be Chris Levis, a former member of the Roughnecks.
Saturday's game at the Saddledome begins at 7.30 p.m.
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National Lacrosse League Stories from April 13, 2006
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- NLL Championship Game to air live on ESPN2, Saturday May 13 at 6PM Eastern - NLL
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