Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Barrage Game 3 (at Rochester 5-31-08)

By Tom Hoffman

The last two undefeated teams in Major League Lacrosse will square off this Saturday night when the Barrage (2-0) travel to Rochester to face the Rattlers (2-0) in Rochester's home opener. Faceoff at PAETEC Park is at 7:30 PM.

History

All time in regular season play the Barrage are 5-11 against the Rattlers, 5-3 since the franchise's move from Bridgeport, Connecticut. In Rochester the Barrage have a 2-6 record. Last season the teams split home wins, the Barrage winning at USTC 21-17 on June 2 while the Rattlers gained revenge with a 16-11 win on June 23. Roy Colsey had nine goals in the two games for the Barrage while Ryan Boyle had 14 points on three goals, one two point goal and nine assists. Rochester was led by John Grant Jr. with eight goals.

Last Week

After falling behind early by a 4-1 score, the Barrage went on to defeat the Long Island Lizards 18-12 at Texas Stadium. A crowd of 3,942 saw three Barrage players (Seth Goldberg, Matt Striebel and Michael Springer) score four goals each and Jed Prossner pick up six points (2G, 4A) on his way to Game MVP honors. Brian Dougherty earned Goalie of the Week honors with an 18 save evening. Rochester defeated Boston 17-14 at Harvard Stadium, riding a nine point effort from John Grant, Jr, one which earned him the MLL's Offensive Player of the Week award.

Fond Memories

Though the Barrage lost during their regular season visit to PAETEC Park, their following visit was much more memorable. During MLL Championship week last season at PAETEC, the Barrage earned their second straight title, and third in four seasons, with wins over Denver in the semi-finals and against Los Angeles in the championship game.

Next Game

The Barrage will travel next to Uniondale, NY on June 5 for a rematch with the Lizards.