Georgia Swarm Lyle Thompson Hits 300 Goals, Andrew Kew Reaches Century Mark in Tough Battle Against Toronto Rock

DULUTH, GA. (JANUARY 22, 2024) –The Georgia Swarm faced off against the Toronto Rock, resulting in a 9-12 defeat for the Swarm. Despite the loss in Toronto, the game was marked by significant milestones and standout performances. 

Lyle Thompson, a key player for the Swarm, reached a historic milestone by scoring his 300th career goal, becoming the third indigenous player to achieve this feat. Additionally, Andrew Kew notched his 100th goal of the night, showcasing the offensive prowess of the Swarm. Bryan Cole also celebrated a milestone, playing his 100th NLL game. 

The Swarm’s defense exhibited tremendous skill throughout the night, effectively thwarting the Rock’s attempts. However, two unfortunate goals were taken away from the Swarm, including a notable style goal by Lyle Thompson in the fourth quarter, which could have shifted the momentum for a potential comeback. 

The goaltending duel between Nick Rose of the Rock and Brett Dobson of the Swarm was a highlight of the game. In the first quarter, Rose’s spectacular play prevented the Swarm from taking an early lead. Dobson, holding his ground in the Swarm net, contributed to the defensive effort. Dobson recorded 35 saves.  

The Rock opened the scoring with an unassisted breakaway goal by forward Brandon Slade, but the Swarm quickly responded, with Lyle Thompson tying the game 1-1. The first quarter remained tied.  

Despite the Rock’s forward Phil Mazzuca giving the Rock a 2-1 lead, the Swarm surged ahead with a takeoff goal by Jordan MacIntosh followed by Seth Oakes and Andrew Kew making it a three-goal run, leading 4-2. The second quarter saw both teams exchanging goals, and the Swarm held a 5-3 lead at halftime. 

In the third quarter, the Rock narrowed the gap, finishing down by just a goal at 8-7. Swarm managed to stay ahead with a power play goal by Oakes.  

The final quarter belonged to the Rock, with forward Dan Craig scoring early to tie the game 8-8. Although the Swarm managed to equalize the score 9-9, the Rock never trailed again. Swarm battle back and forth with unfortunate goals taken away at the last second, but it wasn’t enough.  

Swarm now travel to New York to face the New York Riptides who recently won against the Buffalo Bandits 15-13. Following the game in New York, the Georgia Swarm return to Gas South Arena on Friday, February 2nd, 2024 to face a rematch against the Vancouver Warriors on Casino Night.