CALGARY, AB – When the National Lacrosse League (NLL) schedule was released on Sept. 20, many fans began to see which games they would want to watch.
(Although fans should watch every one of their home teams’ games.)
With that in mind, we’ve taken the liberty of outlining five games that you have to watch this season.
Without further ado, here is the list:
1) The Home Opener
Well, duh. But seriously, the Roughnecks will not have been on the Rough House floor since May 14 when they were dealt an unfortunate loss in Game 1 of the Western Final. The Home Opener will feature the Vancouver Stealth, a team who battled neck and neck all season with the Roughnecks for the final playoff spot in the West. Each match-up with them resulted in big plays and plenty of goals. This is a can’t miss game.
2) Rocky Mountain Rivalry
In Week 4, the Roughnecks will make a trip down south to take on the Colorado Mammoth in a rematch of last season’s Western Division Semi-Final. We all remember how this goes:
With this fresh in the minds of the Mammoth players, expect this game to be very intense and physical. Perhaps another overtime classic?
3) Rock the Rough House
We’re flashing back to last year’s season finale. The Toronto Rock are in town and the Roughnecks can guarantee a spot in the playoffs with a win. After 60 minutes of play, the score is deadlocked at 17-17. A few nice saves from Frankie Scigliano keeps Calgary alive and then this happened…
This was one of the most exciting games played by the Roughnecks in 2016 and with some new faces on the Rock bench, it could be another interesting affair. Also, coach Bruce Codd will be back for his first go-round on the opposition’s bench.
4) Evans Homecoming
After the 2015 season, Calgary made a big splash by trading away MVP Shawn Evans. When the New England Black Wolves come to town on March 26, Evans will hit the floor at the ‘Dome for the first time since taking off the Red and Black jersey. Not only will Evans be returning, but Tracey Kelusky will be back as well. The former Roughnecks captain is currently an assistant coach with the Black Wolves.
5) Season Finale
The ninth and final regular season home game will be a Battle of the Prairies. Why is this a must-see match-up? Because it’s against the defending champs and every time these two teams play, it’s exciting. It’s as simple as that.
Also, with each team in the West improving in the off-season, it’s quite possible that this game could have major playoff implications, making it even more important.
Don’t miss a minute of the action this season by acquiring your season tickets today!