The Saskatchewan Rush are looking to bounce back and finish the regular season on a high note after a 13-11 loss to the Colorado Mammoth this past weekend.
Despite the result, the team showed resilience, battling back with a strong second-half performance at SaskTel Centre.
Second-half push shows promise
Rush defenceman Ryan Barnable said the group found its footing as the game went on, even after a slow start.
“Obviously we didn’t come out of the gates particularly well, but we kind of answered the bell in the second half,” Barnable said. “If we just continue the way we played in that second half, I think we’ll be successful moving forward.”
Playoff mindset taking shape
With just one game remaining in the regular season, Barnable said the team’s focus is clear heading into the final weekend.
“Mindset’s definitely a must win,” he said. “We want to earn another home playoff game for Rush Nation and continue that success. So we want to move into the playoffs in the right direction.”
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Full 60 minutes key against Toronto
The Rush will close out the regular season against the Toronto Rock, with playoff positioning still on the line.
Barnable said putting together a complete effort will be crucial.
“I think just putting together a full 60 minutes and playing with the effort and enthusiasm we did in the second half of last week,” he said. “If we come out of the gates playing with that kind of energy, I think we’ll be successful against any team in the league.”
Message to Rush Nation
Barnable also credited the support from fans and hopes to reward them with a strong finish.
“Love the support, love the crowd. They’re loud, it’s great,” he said. “Hoping to get the win for them this weekend and keep moving in the right direction.”
The Rush return to action Saturday night at SaskTel Centre as they take on Toronto in their final regular-season game, with a home playoff date still up for grabs.