For the first time since 2018, the Saskatchewan Rush are heading to the NLL finals!
The Rush clinched their spot in the championship series after a dramatic finish in game 2 of the semifinal series against the Halifax Thunderbirds.
The Rush were trailing by two when they scored twice in the final 44 seconds of the game, including the game-tying goal by Matt Hossack with six seconds left on the clock to force overtime.
During overtime, the Thunderbirds took a five-minute major penalty for boarding, leading to Austin Shanks scoring the game-winner against his former team.
This is the first time many players on the Rush roster will be participating in the NLL championship series, including Rush transition player Jerrett Smith.
“I feel like we’re ready,” Smith said. “We have a lot of guys who have played in big moments at every level. It’s new to us at this level, but we know what needs to happen.”
The Rush will face the Buffalo Bandits in a three-game series, with the winner earning the privilege of lifting the NLL Cup. Game one is set for Friday, May 16 in Buffalo, Game two will be in Saskatoon on Sunday, May 18. If a third game is required, a champion will be crowned in Buffalo on May 24.
Tickets for game two are on sale now and can be purchased here.
Have a listen to the full conversation with Jerrett Smith below.