Tonight is the first game of a double-header this week for the Philadelphia Wings as they travel to Uncasville, Connecticut to face the New England Black Wolves. Not only is it important that the Wings keep control of their momentum after a win at home, but tonight’s game carries heavy importance in the NLL standings. If Philadelphia wins tonight, they will take first place in the East.
This is a rivalry game when you dissect the Philadelphia Wings history. Before 2016, the Wings relocated to become the New England Black Wolves. When Philadelphia became home once again, there was no love lost between the two franchises. When asked about this game following their win against the Vancouver Warriors, Kevin Crowley had this to say:
“I remember last year, playing there, they did this big scene of pulling a Crowley jersey off and having a Crawford jersey underneath. I know they weren’t happy with the way things went, I don’t blame them, but it always adds for me going into the game just a little extra hate in that game.”
Kevin Crowley; 1/10/2020
Undefeated this season, the New England Black Wolves (4-0) currently hold a half-game lead over the Philadelphia Wings in the NLL East standings. Tonight is their first game after two straight bye weeks. The Wings (3-1) are off to a great start this season after finishing 4-14 last season. Heading into the Mohegan Sun Arena, Philadelphia has its most challenging task at hand. The Black Wolves have one of the best offenses in the NLL, which is why the Wings will ideally have to make this a defensive win.
Offensively, the Philadelphia Wings have been trending in the right direction since week one’s loss to the Georgia Swarm. With each passing week, the Wings are scoring more goals. This has to do with Philadelphia’s ability to create shots on offense and possess the ball. As long as Trevor Baptiste is on the field, the Wings will be one of the most dangerous teams in the NLL at all times. Time of possession is just as important as a tight defense.
Callum Crawford is second in the NLL in total points, fourth in goals scored, and fourth in assists. If the Philadelphia Wings can find a way to isolate Crawford from the rest of his team, it will relieve a ton of pressure off of the defense. Steph Charbonneau and the gang are going to have to play lights out defense to limit Crawford.
Faceoff tonight is at 7 pm from the Mohegan Sun Arena. The game can be viewed on Bleacher Report Live and online on NLL Live.
Mandatory Credit – Alex McIntyre
