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'Putting everything on the line': Buffalo Bandits' last practice ahead of NLL championship game

'Putting everything on the line': Buffalo Bandits' last practice ahead of NLL championship game
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BUFFAL, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Buffalo Bandits are on the cusp of a third straight National Lacrosse League title.

The Saskatchewan Rush forced this deciding Game 3 with an 11-10 win last weekend in Saskatoon.

I spoke with Bandits head coach John Tavares after practice on Friday. He knows history is on the line Saturday and shared the message he told his team.

"I kind of like remind them what they need to do to be successful," Tavares said. "Discipline and putting everything on the line. That one little play could be the difference in the game. That one play you make or don't make can be the difference. Whenever you're in a situation, give it your best, and remind them they're going to make mistakes, and a lot of times, it's how you respond to your mistakes. So, treat it like another game and try to be your best version."

Acting Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon and Saskatoon Mayor Cynthia Block have made a friendly wager ahead of Game 3, agreeing to donate to food banks in the winning team's city.

"At the end of the day, I think our Bandits will prevail," Scanlon said. "FeedMore WNY is going to be the beneficiary of this friendly wager. I want to thank Mayor Cynthia Block for entering into this wager. I wish everyone good luck tomorrow night and Go Bandits."

Game 3 between the Bandits and Rush is set for 4:30 p.m. Saturday at KeyBank Center.

The game may be sold out, but Banditland can still be part of the action at the Party in the Plaza before Saturday's game or at the Draft Room inside the Labatt Brew House watch party.