Toronto Rock Bill Greer harasses Calgary Roughnecks Curtis Dickson in NLL action at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013. (Mike Drew/QMI Agency)
CALGARY - The new year ended just like the last one did for the Calgary Roughnecks.
But this loss certainly isn’t as disappointing for the National Lacrosse League team.
With four new players in the lineup and forward Dane Dobbie sitting out due to a suspension, there were plenty of things to build on after 13-11 loss to the Toronto Rock.
The Riggers didn’t change much after getting knocked out of the 2012 playoffs by the Edmonton Rush, believing they have the pieces in place to be a championship team.
They were undone Saturday night in the 2013 home-opener by what is perceived to be their own style — a quick transition game utilizing young athletic players.
The Rock, who are a veteran team, took advantage of some quick-strike chances and undisciplined play to build a healthy lead they wouldn’t give back.
“We had the ball too high on offence a lot and that’s easy to defend when they’re all watching and looking at you,” said new head coach Curt Malawsky.
