Calgary Roughnecks Stage Fourth-Quarter Rally But Succumb to Ottawa Black Bears 11-9
The struggling Calgary Roughnecks mounted a spirited fourth-quarter comeback but ultimately fell short, losing 11-9 to the host Ottawa Black Bears in National Lacrosse League action on Saturday night at the Canadian Tire Centre. The defeat extends the Roughnecks' losing streak to three games and drops their season record to a disappointing 1-7.
Offensive Stars Shine Despite Team Struggles
Calgary's offensive leaders delivered standout performances in the losing effort. Forward Tanner Cook opened the scoring just three minutes into the first quarter, netting his 20th goal of the season. Cook would finish the night with a five-point performance, demonstrating why he remains a key offensive weapon for the Riggers.
Tyler Pace matched Cook's five-point output, completing a hat-trick with back-to-back power-play goals in the third quarter that brought Calgary within one goal of the Black Bears. Haiden Dickson contributed significantly as well, scoring his 13th goal of the season and finishing with four points on the night.
Game Momentum Shifts Throughout Four Quarters
The game followed a pattern of momentum swings that kept fans on edge until the final minutes:
- First Quarter: Cook's early goal gave Calgary an initial lead, but Ottawa responded with two late goals to finish the opening frame ahead 2-1.
- Second Quarter: The Roughnecks' struggles continued as they were outscored 4-2, with Cook and Pace each netting goals but the team trailing 6-3 at halftime.
- Third Quarter: Calgary's power play came alive with Pace scoring twice and Dickson adding another power-play goal, though Ottawa maintained an 8-6 lead heading to the final frame.
- Fourth Quarter: Riley Loewen and Dickson scored early to tie the game at 8-8, followed by Cook's go-ahead goal that gave Calgary their first lead of the contest. However, Ottawa responded with three unanswered goals to secure the victory.
Ottawa's Offensive Leader Dominates
While Calgary's offensive stars performed well, Ottawa's Jeff Teat proved why he leads the NLL in points. The Black Bears forward dominated with four goals and five assists, totaling nine points and consistently answering Calgary's scoring threats throughout the game. Ottawa improved to 5-5 on the season with the victory.
Looking Ahead: Home Weekend Doubleheader
The Roughnecks return to action next weekend for a crucial home doubleheader at WestJet Field in Scotiabank Saddledome. The schedule presents an opportunity for Calgary to reverse their fortunes:
- Saturday, February 14 (7 p.m.): The Riggers host the Philadelphia Wings for their Galentine's Day game
- Sunday, February 15 (6 p.m.): The Georgia Swarm visit for the PJ Party contest
These back-to-back home games offer the struggling Roughnecks a chance to build momentum and improve their standing in the National Lacrosse League. With offensive firepower demonstrated in Ottawa, Calgary will look to translate individual performances into team success during this critical weekend homestand.
