The National Lacrosse League (NLL) saw pivotal performances this past weekend, with the Oshawa FireWolves and Toronto Rock both securing much-needed victories to bolster their positions in the standings.
FireWolves Ignite with Complete Performance
After struggling with inconsistency, the Oshawa FireWolves (2-4) delivered their most complete game of the season on Saturday, January 11, 2026. They dominated the Halifax Thunderbirds with a decisive 16-9 win at the Tribute Communities Centre in Oshawa.
The offensive explosion was led by forward Tye Kurtz, who tied his career high by netting seven goals. This marked a stunning reversal from the teams' first meeting on December 5, when Halifax goaltender Warren Hill held Oshawa to a league-record low of two goals. This time, the FireWolves' relentless attack chased Hill from the net midway through the second quarter after building an 11-2 halftime lead.
"This was a big one," said Kurtz, who celebrated his 27th birthday with the win. "We're kind of at the point of the season where we needed a win. We need to get the wins together now."
The FireWolves' power play was a key factor, contributing six goals. Ethan Walker and Alex Simmons each recorded nine points, with Walker scoring three times and Simmons adding two goals. Doug Jamieson anchored the defense with 39 saves before giving way to Andrew Kidd in the fourth quarter.
Rookie Kirst Stars in Rock's Defensive Win
Meanwhile, the Toronto Rock (2-2) showcased a formidable team effort in a 12-7 victory over the San Diego Seals on Friday night. Rookie sensation CJ Kirst continued to make his case for Rookie of the Year, scoring a career-high five goals.
Kirst's performance, which included a highlight-reel spin move goal in the second quarter, was supported by a stellar defensive showing. The Rock recorded numerous shot blocks, and goaltender Nick Rose turned away 41 shots to secure the win.
"We're a group that just trusts each other," Kirst said. "Everyone has been giving each other the confidence to go play and we just trusted on the floor every step of the way."
Challen Rogers added two goals for Toronto, with singles coming from Josh Dawick, Sam English, Chris Boushy, Mark Matthews, and Owen Hiltz.
Around the National Lacrosse League
The weekend's action saw several other notable results across the league:
- The Halifax Thunderbirds (3-3) split their weekend, opening with a 13-11 win over the Ottawa Black Bears on Friday. Will MacLeod scored four goals in that contest.
- The Vancouver Warriors (3-1) edged the Calgary Roughnecks 11-10 on a late goal by Curtis Dickson, who finished with four goals.
- The Saskatchewan Rush (5-1) continued their strong start, overpowering the Las Vegas Desert Dogs 21-15 behind six goals from Ryan Keenan.
- The Colorado Mammoth (3-2) won a low-scoring affair 7-5 against the Georgia Swarm.
- The Rochester Knighthawks (4-1) had a perfect weekend, beating Philadelphia 16-13 and then defeating the Buffalo Bandits 12-9.
Looking ahead, the Oshawa FireWolves will travel to face the high-flying Saskatchewan Rush next Saturday, January 18. The Toronto Rock will also be on the road, visiting the Rochester Knighthawks the same night as the NLL season continues its intense schedule.
