New Edition of Russ' Blog
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Well, I at least know how the
Minnesota Vikings feel after giving the game away in overtime Sunday to the
Saints. Saturday night was entertaining but filled with a disappointing end
result. I was pleased that even with
Merrick Thomson, Josh Simms and Shawn Nadelen out with injuries that we overcame
some bad mechanics to take a 2 two goal lead with 3 minutes to play. The last 40
seconds of the game was mismanaged by our coaches and poorly executed by the
players and resulted in our losing a game we should have won. I am confident Colorado had too many men
on the field on the breakaway goal but it should have never gotten to
that. I give Colorado credit for doing what they needed to
do playing back to back games and capitalizing on our gift.
I continue to be pleased with the
goalie play of Brandon Miller and the
defense as a whole. The offence continues to struggle a little but will get
better each week. We have really been hurt by injuries on offence. Our special
teams are not getting it done. We are 8th in the league on both
Power and Man Down and 1 for 9 in our last nine PP opportunities. (5 for 15 over
3 games) Our special teams must improve to reach our goals for the season.
Some thoughts:
- We are pleased to announce the
acquisition of Max Seibald, this years #1 pick by Boston. He’s a 4 time All American from Cornell
and “2009 College Lacrosse Player of the Year.” I spent time with Max
Saturday night and he is quality. He’s a leader, has great lacrosse instincts,
good size, very athletic and fast. Once he learns the indoor game and becomes
familiar with our system he will help us a lot.
- We recognized Comcast Spectacor and
the Wachovia
Center staff Saturday night
for their 24 years of partnership with us. Without their support lacrosse in
Philadelphia
would have been over a long time ago.
- The game this Saturday is a 1:00 pm
start. Expect it to
be a very intense game. Thanks to all the fans that are making the trip to
Boston. I
am sure they won’t be thrilled to see you.
- In the offseason we decided to
change up our player introductions to how other major sports do it. Our intent
was to give more information on each player introduced and streamline the
opening for future television opportunities. All major sports only introduce the
starters. Many of you made a good point that we
should introduce all players at the first home game. Every player will get
introduced before the season is over, It also gives us a lot more flexibility in
the game opening.
- Many of you have asked about
Chris(Fritz). He has been unable to
travel because of very serious back issues and will have a 10-12 hour surgery
this Thursday. Please keep him and his family in your thoughts and
prayers. No one misses seeing you more or cares as much about the Wings as
Chris. Good luck my brother.
I am very optimistic about this
season and team. I never take for granted the way you hang with us through thick
and thin. I know that by the time you read this
blog, you have already figured it out and have moved on to next game. So let’s move on and beat the
Blazers AGAIN!! Have a great
week.