Wings and Swarm Battle for First Place Friday Night
Thursday, February 21, 2008
The undefeated Philadelphia
Wings (4-0) return home this Friday to host the Minnesota Swarm (6-1) at the
Wachovia Center, following their win over Colorado last weekend. The Wings
exciting 15-13 win over the Mammoth last Friday was the team’s first road game
of the 2008 season.
“It was our first road game, our first game in three
weeks, and Colorado is a tough place to play,” stated Head Coach Dave Huntley.
“I thought we handled all three factors pretty well – our time off, the fact
that it was a road game, and the difficult building; I’m pleased with how our
guys played.”
The Wings’ upcoming game will pit them against the
Swarm, as both teams battle for the lead in the NLL’s East Division. Prior to
last weekends match-ups, the Swarm was undefeated but fell to the Buffalo
Bandits (4-4) in a disappointing loss. Coaches for the Wings and the Swarm are
anticipating a physical and exciting game this Friday.
“I expect that it will be a tough game, no surprise
there within the East [Division],” commented Minnesota Head Coach Duane Jacobs.
“I also expect Philly to be very athletic and run the floor. They have also been
able to score timely goals. Both teams play up-tempo, at least I know we will,
and I don’t see Philadelphia changing much.”
The Wing’s offensive efforts have been led by Athan
Iannucci (19G, 10A), Jake Bergey (14G, 8A), and Merrick Thomson (11G, 11A). Rob
Blasdell’s incomparable performances in goal, along with strong defense from
Shawn Nadelen and Thomas Hajek, have been invaluable to the team’s success. This
strong combination of players will be tested as they take on the Swarm and their
leading scorers Andy Secore (16G, 25A), and Ryan Ward (18G, 20A). The Swarm’s
Nick Patterson, who currently has a .765 save percentage, is expected to start
in goal.
Notes: Fans are encouraged to wear red to Friday
night's game against the Swarm to support the Wings who will be wearing their
red jerseys for the first time this season.