
ALBANY, N.Y. — In a captivating National Lacrosse League (NLL) showdown, the Albany FireWolves emerged victorious with a 13-11 win over the Colorado Mammoth at MVP Arena. The FireWolves, after a brief two-game losing skid, are back atop the NLL standings with an impressive 7-2 record.
Returning after missing the previous game, goaltender Doug Jamieson showcased his brilliance with a phenomenal performance, making 50 saves on 61 shots. Tye Kurtz led the offensive charge for the FireWolves, amassing seven points (3 goals, 4 assists), while Alex Simmons contributed with a team-high 4 goals. Other notable scorers included Travis Longboat (5 points), Ethan Walker (5 points), Sam Firth (3 points), and Marshall Powless (2 points).
This midseason clash held significant importance for both teams, serving as a momentum-builder as the playoff picture begins to take shape.
The FireWolves set the tone early in the first quarter, with Simmons and Kurtz netting two consecutive goals. The Mammoth responded with a swift comeback, tying the game 2-2 before Walker restored Albany’s lead at 3-2.
The second quarter continued the intense back-and-forth play, as the FireWolves extended their lead to 5-2 with goals from Kurtz and Simmons. However, Colorado showcased resilience, mounting a three-goal run to narrow the gap to 6-5 by halftime.
The third quarter intensified the rollercoaster narrative, with both teams exchanging blows. The Mammoth grabbed their first lead at 8-7, but Simmons leveled the score at 8-8 with a crucial goal in the dying seconds of the quarter.
The fourth quarter unfolded with a flurry of goals, creating a nail-biting finish. Firth, Simmons, and Kurtz delivered clutch performances, propelling the FireWolves to a 13-11 victory. Marshall Powless sealed the deal with a one-handed shot in the final minutes, securing the game-winning goal. Walker added one more goal, and the defense held strong to deny the Mammoth any late comeback.
The FireWolves, standing at 7-2, look ahead to their next challenge on Feb. 24 at 7:30 p.m., as they head to Buffalo to face their New York state rivals and aim for a season sweep in Banditland.