The Toronto Rock are 0-1 on their new Toronto Rock Athletic Centre (TRAC) turf, after suffering a 12-8 loss at the hands of the Edmonton Rush in Saturday’s exhibition tilt. It was the first pre-season game for both teams.
Rock players who stood out in the loss included an impressive performance from B.C. native Kyle Belton. The recently signed 3rd rounder netted a hat trick in his first action with the Rock, leading the way offensively. Belton will look to keep his current pace going steady in order to crack a primarily veteran Rock offensive unit.
Rob Hellyer looked to be continuing the momentum from his Minto Cup championship summer, registering a pair of goals in the contest. Hellyer’s rookie campaign saw him finish with 14 points in 6 games, including 1 goal and 1 assist in the NLL finals to help Toronto capture the 2011 Champion’s Cup. After missing last season due to injury, Hellyer will be a welcomed addition if he can consistently produce offensively.
Although just an exhibition game, this loss is nonetheless a less than ideal start for the six time NLL champions. Toronto will look to redeem themselves versus the Rochester Knighthawks when the two teams square off Saturday night. The exhibition match up will be held at Montreal’s Bell Centre.
