Tonight the Philadelphia Wings and their fans can experience something they haven’t in twelve seasons. A home playoff game. April 20, 2001 was the last time the Wings had a “true” home playoff game. (In 2002, the game was deferred to them by the Washington Power due to attendance) on that day in 2001 the Wings defeated Rochester 12-11
By the time the game starts for the Philadelphia Wings, their destination on where they are going may already be determined. Earlier tonight the Bandits will face the Knighthawks. A Knighthawk win will send the Wings to Rochester for round one for the second year in a row. A Bandit win and the Wings will have a shot of a home playoff game with a win over the Stealth, a loss and they would travel to Buffalo
Last time these teams met the Stealth took advantage of an injury riddled Wings team. Brodie Merrill, Brett Manney, Brendan Mundorf and Jeff Reynolds. Tonight at least three of the four (Reynolds unknown) will be back in the lineup for the Wings.
Wings are coming into tonight’s game with a two game winning streak, including a thrilling game last week in overtime defeating the Rock 10-9. The Stealth who have lost three of the last four can clinch a home playoff game with a victory or if Minnesota and Calgary lose their games tonight.
Should the Wings destination already be decided by the earlier game, we may see backup goalkeeper Angus Dineley get some action to give Miller some much needed rest in preparation for the opening round of the playoffs.
Wings are led by Kevin Crowley’s 32 goals, Westervelt (27), & Kevin Ross (20). Paul Rabil (17G/21A) has been a fantastic addition coming out the front door on offense. Brandon Miller when called upon has been a wall when needed and may need to again tonight.
For the Stealth, Rhys Duch 41 goals, Ratcliff (28) and Iannucci (21) lead the Stealth
