Roughnecks in Toronto March 25
March 22, 2006 - National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Calgary Roughnecks News Release
Calgary, AB - The Calgary Roughnecks will be in tough when they travel to Ontario Saturday for a battle with the National Lacrosse League's poster team, the Toronto Rock.
Defenders Taylor Wray, the NLL's Rookie of the Year in 2004, and Travis Gillespie are both prevented by work commitments from making the trip.
Wray has to coach his North Carolina college lacrosse squad, while Gillespie is the newest recruit to a Vancouver area fire department.
"We're sure going to miss them," said Riggers' General Manager, Kurt Silcott. "Both have played well at the back end plus they've each chipped in with crucial goals."
The loss of Wray and Gillespie is partially compensated for with the return of super-agitator Jesse Phillips.
Phillips, who has suffered from a variety of serious injuries this season, not so long ago contemplated retirement.
"Fortunately for us, he decided to return, and we have room for his skill, spirit and leadership in Toronto," said Silcott. "He always performs well against the Rock and certainly knows how to get under their collective skins."
Silcott continued, "Any time we play Toronto is a big game. They are the reigning champs so the game represents a chance to measure ourselves against the top team in the league. I also think there's a keen rivalry here so that aspect just adds to the excitement surrounding this game.
"Then you look at the NLL standings and it's a real dogfight for playoff spots. In fact, I'm sure this clash will feel like a playoff game. I've heard that tickets are going fast so I expect the Air Canada Centre will be packed and loud."
Calgary (6-5) co-leads the West Division with Colorado and San Jose, while Toronto (7-5), along with Rochester, holds the same spot in the East.
Saturday's game can be seen live on Rogers Sportsnet (Channel 27). Ball drop is at noon M.S.T.
National Lacrosse League Stories from March 22, 2006
- Playoff chase couldn't be closer - Portland Lumberjax
- Roughnecks in Toronto March 25 - Calgary Roughnecks
- Jeff Zywicki Earns Third Rookie of the Week Award - San Jose Stealth
- Jalbert named player of the week - Colorado Mammoth
- Rush host Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders - Edmonton Rush
- Minnesota Swarm's Ryan Ward Named NLL Offensive Player of the Week - Minnesota Swarm
- Jalbert, Ward and Zywicki Honored - NLL
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