Caden Balint – Albany Correspondent, Stream Punk Sports / All Lacrosse All The Time
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…the Albany FireWolves hosted “Star Wars Night.”
Tonight, the Albany FireWolves will play host to the Colorado Mammoth in the second game of their home-and-home series. After a 15-13 loss last week—where the Mammoth went on a five-goal fourth quarter to steal the win—the FireWolves are laser-focused on redemption. Albany is not only seeking to avenge last week’s loss but also to break a string of overtime heartbreaks at home.
The FireWolves will be without defenders John Wagner and Jackson Nishimura, along with captain Colton Watkinson and their newest addition, Callum Crawford. In their absence, Albany will debut two new signees: forward Carson Moyer and transition player Blake McDonald. These fresh faces join a team battling injuries and searching for momentum before entering what is arguably the toughest stretch of their season.
The Mammoth’s Mission
On the other side, the Colorado Mammoth will aim to continue their winning ways. Connor Robinson and Connor Kelly, who combined for 13 points in last week’s matchup, remain a nightmare for Albany to contain. When these two aren’t leading the offense, Colorado leans on goaltender Dillon Ward, who was a fortress in net during the fourth quarter last week. With their fifth win of the season within reach, the Mammoth need only stick to their game plan: trust Ward in goal and let Kelly and Robinson guide the offense.
Players to Watch
Albany FireWolves:
- Tye Kurtz: After a career-high seven-goal performance, Kurtz continues to be Albany’s top offensive threat. Expect him to lead the charge once again.
- Alex Simmons: Simmons added a hat trick and four assists in last week’s game, proving himself as a critical playmaker for Albany.
- Ethan Walker: With a career-high seven assists last week, Walker’s ability to facilitate the offense will be crucial for Albany’s success.
- Carson Moyer & Blake McDonald: Making FireWolves debuts after just recently signing with the team this past week.
Colorado Mammoth:
- Connor Kelly: Kelly, the Mammoth’s offensive dynamo, posted five goals and two assists last week. He’s a consistent threat in critical moments.
- Dillon Ward: The Mammoth goaltender was a brick wall in last week’s fourth quarter. His ability to stymie Albany’s offense will be a deciding factor.
- Connor Robinson: With four goals and two assists last week, Robinson’s contributions were pivotal in the Mammoth’s comeback victory.
Keys to Victory
FireWolves:
- Finish Strong: Albany must deliver a full 60-minute performance to avoid second-half collapses.
- Capitalize on Home Advantage: With the crowd energized by “Star Wars Night,” the FireWolves should use the atmosphere to dictate the pace.
- Tighten Up on Defense: Slowing down Colorado’s top scorers and disrupting their offensive rhythm is crucial for Albany to stay in the game.
Mammoth:
- Start Faster: Colorado cannot afford another slow start like last week if they hope to control tonight’s game.
- Leverage Depth: Contributions from players like Zed Williams and Ryan Lee can help Colorado maintain their edge over Albany.
- Trust Dillon Ward: The Mammoth’s netminder will need to replicate his fourth-quarter heroics to secure another win.
Final Thoughts
Tonight’s matchup promises to be another thrilling chapter in this budding rivalry. Can the FireWolves rise to the occasion and earn their redemption, or will the Mammoth complete the sweep? Don’t miss the action as Albany hosts Colorado on “Star Wars Night” at MVP Arena!