The upcoming match at the KeyBank Centre in Buffalo promises to be an exciting encounter as the defending champion Bandits take on the Ottawa Black Bears. The game is set for Friday night, and both teams are eager to make their mark.
Current Standings and Team Performance
As of this season, the Black Bears hold a record of 3 wins and 3 losses, while the Bandits have achieved 3 wins against 2 losses. This matchup is highly anticipated due to the talent on both sides, particularly the forward pairings of Jeff Teat and Rob Hellyer from the Bandits, who have netted 28 goals together. On the opposing side, the duo of Dhane Smith and Josh Byrne has contributed 23 goals.
Historic Rivalry
This game marks the only meeting of the season between these two teams. Historically, the Bandits and the Black Bears have faced off numerous times, with Buffalo dominating their encounters, leading the all-time series 2-4 against Ottawa. However, Ottawa seeks to distance itself from the past, particularly the significant 18-7 loss they suffered last season.
Defensive Showdowns and Key Players
The Black Bears’ defense has shown notable improvement this year. They have already scored 11 goals through the first six games, a sharp contrast to their total of just 15 from the previous season. Leading the charge is Callum Jones, who prominently ranks first in caused turnovers with 16 and second in loose balls with 61 in the league.
Insights from Players
Kevin Brownell, discussing the Black Bears’ performance this season, highlighted the need for balance on both offense and defense. He noted that while they are working on tightening up defense, the athletic group is making strides in both areas. Brownell emphasized the importance of a cohesive team effort to achieve success during games.
Viewing Information
Fans can watch the exciting matchup on TSN 1 and TSN 5 as part of a doubleheader on NLL Friday Night. The game will also be available to stream on TSN+ and ESPN+.
Upcoming Schedule for the Black Bears
- January 23: Home game against Vancouver at Canadian Tire Centre.
The Black Bears aim to continue improving their performance as they prepare for the Bandits on Friday night. Follow them on social media for updates and interactions.
