Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 4/11/13
The Philadelphia Wings can clinch a playoff spot for the second consecutive season with a win against the Toronto Rock when the two teams meet for the third time this season in a game that will be broadcast live nationally on the CBS Sports Network at Wells Fargo Center on Saturday at 4:30 p.m.
After snapping a five game losing streak with an emotional win on Sunday against the Minnesota Swarm, the Wings will look to use the momentum to jump into the NLL playoff picture. At 6-8, the Wings are currently in third place in the East division, a half-game behind Rochester for second place. A win against the Rock or a loss from the Buffalo Bandits will secure a post-season game for the Wings, who have not made the playoffs for consecutive times since 2002.
The Wings have split the season series with division leading Toronto, with each team winning once on the other’s turf. The Rock have already clinched the East division with a 10-5 record, as well as a home playoff game and can lock up home field throughout the playoffs with a win in Philadelphia.
“We have our backs against the wall with this game and an opportunity to clinch a spot in the playoffs,” said Rookie defender Michael Manley. “We want to take the momentum from last weekend’s win into the game on Saturday.”
Manley scored a timely goal for the Wings in their win against Minnesota and is part of a group of young players that are playing key roles for the Wings this season. Both of the Wings 2012 draft picks, Manley and CJ Costabile have played in 13 games this season and have strengthened the Wings defense. Second year players Joel White and Kevin Crowley have also been key contributors on the offensive end. Crowley leads the Wings in goals (31), assists (36) and overall points (67), while leading the league in shots on goal with 167.
Saturday’s game will be the last regular season home game of the season at Wells Fargo Center for the Wings. All fans in attendance will receive a complimentary team poster provided by Utz and will be able to participate in a post-game autograph session with the entire team.
Tickets for the Wings’ Fan Appreciation Night at Wells Fargo Center are available by phone at 215-389-WING or online at www.WingsLAX.com.
