The Vancouver Warriors (10-7) secured just their second postseason berth since relocating from Washington to British Columbia 11 seasons ago, defeating the Toronto Rock 12-10 at Paramount Fine Foods Centre on Friday. Riding a strong late-season surge, the Warriors have emerged as a formidable playoff threat.
“This is why you compete—to play in the biggest games,” said veteran forward Keegan Bal. “After some tough years, sticking with it makes this reward even sweeter.”
Meanwhile, the Rock (5-11) saw their dwindling playoff hopes officially extinguished. With only two games remaining, a team that reached the league semifinals the past four seasons—including a dominant 15-3 campaign in 2023-24—will finish with its worst record since 2016’s 5-13 disappointment.
Warriors’ Defense Shines, Offense Delivers
Goaltender Christian Del Bianco, acquired from Calgary in March after a holdout, stifled Toronto’s attack with 35 saves—just as he did in Vancouver’s 13-8 win over the Rock on March 14. The former NLL MVP stayed sharp in the Arena Lacrosse League before joining the Warriors.
At the other end, Adam Charalambides led Vancouver’s offense with four goals, including two early strikes. “Our offense was flowing—everyone moved well, shared the ball, and trusted the system,” he said.
Marcus Klarich and Keegan Bal each added two goals, while Owen Grant, Riley Loewen, Ryan Martel, and Kevin Crowley also contributed. Despite a late 4-0 push by Toronto in the fourth, Vancouver’s early 7-3 halftime lead held firm.
Rock’s Late Push Falls Short
Chris Boushy’s hat trick highlighted Toronto’s fourth-quarter rally, making the scoreline more respectable. Corey Small and Josh Dawick netted two goals apiece, while Challen Rogers—who recently hit the 100-goal career milestone—Justin Martin, and Jake Darlison also scored. Goaltender Troy Holowchuk finished with 28 saves.
The Rock will close their home schedule next Friday in Mississauga against the Halifax Thunderbirds.
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