The Boston Cannons (2-1) return home to take on the 2015 runner-up Rochester Rattlers (just 48 hours after knocking previously undefeated Chesapeake Bayhawks Thursday evening.
Boston had a 13-11 victory over Chesapeake Thursday night, giving the Cannons a two-game winning streak after their season opening loss to Charlotte Hounds.
Boston will see some key additions to their roster Saturday evening, as the Cannons welcome back Mitch Belisle and Brodie Merrill from their NLL duties. Belisle is coming off an impressive year with the Georgia Swarm, being a dominating presence on defense, and contributing three points (one goal, two assists). Merrill is coming off a 16 point (four goals, twelve assists) season with the Toronto Rock.
Both Belisle and Merrill will improve the Cannons defensive units, and provide some veteran presence on Boston’s roster. Merrill is coming off a 2015 campaign which saw him become the first Major League Lacrosse player to record 800 groundballs. Belisle will look to improve off his 2015 season which saw only 11 groundballs, but did see his 100th MLL game.
Boston’s Key Players
Will Manny – Manny has truly developed into a superstar for the Cannons. In just three games thus far this season, Manny has produced a team high 17 points (nine goals, seven assists) including a stunning 2-point goal from midfield in Boston’s win over Chesapeake.
David Emala – Emala has 10 points this season (seven goals, three assists). In 2015, Emala was named the MLL Brine Most Improved Player award, which has translated into great on the field production. Look for Emala to have another great performance versus the Rattlers.
Rochester’s Key Players
Jordan Wolf – Wolf is posed for another break out season for the Rattlers, and currently leads the team with nine points (eight goals, one assist.) Wolf is coming off a 61-point season in 2015, which included a trip to the MLL Championship in Kennesaw, Georgia against the New York Lizards.
John Galloway – Galloway will be between the pipes for the Rattlers, and will look to lift the Rattlers to their first victory of the season. In only one game of work Galloway has six saves, while 12 goals against. Stopping the Cannons offensive unit won’t be an easy task, but Galloway’s quick hands could prove to be a challenge for Boston.
Why Boston?
Boston is coming into the game on a two-game winning streak follow a tough loss to the Hounds. Emala has continued to impress, and Will Manny has become one of the most dominant players in Major League Lacrosse. Josh Hawkins and Brent Adams have found themselves at the forefront of the Cannons midfield.
The return of Belisle and Merrill bring another dynamic piece to this entertaining Cannons roster. A mix of young, upcoming talent and veteran leadership have set Boston up for a possible historic season.
Why Rochester?
Rochester comes into this game relatively healthy, having two full weeks since their loss to the Hounds to prepare for the Cannons. The Cannons are coming into Saturday’s game less than 48 hours after their win over Chesapeake. Rochester will need to take an early lead, and use their fresh legs as an advantage.
Jordan Wolf has become a catalyst for the Rattlers, and will look to lead Rochester to their first win of the 2016 campaign. The Rattles also lead the all-time series between the two organizations with a 15-11 record.
