By Brandon J. Koch
The Buffalo Bandits defeated the Saskatchewan Rush in overtime by a score of 16-15.
Buffalo started this game down 6-0, and it seemed like it was going to be a long night. Alex Buque was pulled after letting in 4 goals on 6 shots, he was let to dry on atleast half of them.
Some other thoughts on the game:
Great Dhane
What a game by the Bandits MVP. Took over the comeback. A total of 9 points tonight and took 15 shots. A game where they needed their best player in the worst way, he answered the call.
Zach Higgins
Actually, can there be co-MVPs? Because Higgins played very well in relief. First off, he hasn’t started a game all season and to come in off the bench, against a very good lacrosse team and one of the best offenses, incredible performance. Made huge saves early when it was 6-0, 7-2. Second half was even better as the Rush had plenty of break aways. He deserves a start next week.
Josh Byrne
I said before the game that this is the night where the rookie has to take over. He did. Without Crawford, Byrne was conductor of the offense when he was on the field. Four assists and a huge goal late in the 4th. Huge confidence builder, special player.
We're going to OVERTIME! pic.twitter.com/0m359HFn4d
— Buffalo Bandits (@NLLBandits) January 20, 2018
Mitch Jones
Was right there with Smith, he was great. Making the most out of the powerplay chances, took a dozen shots, 10 points total. Once again, with Crawford out, Jones helped led the way.
Defense
After a rough start, the Bandits defense tightened up and made adjustments. Give the defense credit. They were very physical in the back ends and in front of the crease. Priolo, Wagner, De Snoo, Weiss, Brownwell, Schott all made a difference.
Final thoughts
Yes, its still early on, but this was a season changer for the Bandits. Down 6-0 early, starting goaltender gets pulled. Trying to battle back little by little but the Rush responded. Then late in 3rd, down 7, the Bandits took life and mounded a great comeback.
Leave a Reply