LENNOXVILLE, Que. – McGill has had the Bishop's Gaiters number. The Bishop's lacrosse squad is just 1-12 against the Montreal institution since 2013.  Nevertheless, this is homecoming in Lennoxville and since 2013, only one of the traditional Thursday night games has been decided by more than two goals.
 
The rivals will faceoff on Thursday, Sept. 26 on Coulter Field with McGill entering as favourites. They boast an unblemished 4-0 record while Bishop's is 1-4 and on a four game losing streak. However, this is homecoming.  There is always something in the air the promises it will be one heck of a lacrosse game.
 
Watch Thursday game live at www.gaiters.ca/webcast.
 
Where we stand
McGill (4-0) is the lone undefeated team in the CUFLA East division. Bishop's (1-4) is in fifth place. Trent at 4-1, Nipissing 2-2 and Queen's 2-2 have all beaten the Gaiters. The Excalibur have two wins over Bishop's.
 
The Gaiters' win came against Ottawa (1-3).  They have yet to play Carleton (0-3).
 
The 'X' Factor
Bishop's attackman Xavier Perron (Sherbrooke, Que./) is currently tied for the league lead with 12 goals.
 
Last time we met
McGill ended the Gaiters season in Montreal last year in a CUFLA East playoff match-up by a final of 10-3.
 
Homecoming Heroics
Lennoxville is a special place on homecoming and the Gaiters always seem to add to the atmosphere. With the exception of a 13-7 loss last year, each homecoming Thursday game has come down to the final minutes.
2017:  it took a three overtimes but Bishop's stunned McGill 12-11.
2016: McGill scored four unanswered goals in the fourth quarter to win 11-9.
2015: Both teams were undefeated entering the game, McGill held on for a 7-6 win
2014: Bishop's rallied, but the comeback came up short, McGill 8 – Bishop's 7
2013: McGill went wire-to-wire, not without dramatics, they held on for a 12-10 victory
 
King Kauffeldt
Bishop's Gaiters long pole defender Taylor Kauffeldt (Aurora, Ont./Aurora H.S.) was greeted with some surprising but welcoming news last week.  He was drafted 55^th overall in the National Lacrosse League entry draft on Sept. 17. Luke Connelly, voice of the Gaiters caught up with the newest member of the Buffalo Bandits.

 
Unfortunately, Kauffeldt is out with a knee injury but will provide inspiration for his teammates on what promises to be an entertaining game.
 
Next Up
After homecoming Thursday, the Gaiters will host the Carleton Ravens on Coulter Field on Saturday, Oct. 5.
 
Stay up-to-date anytime with the Bishop's Gaiters at www.gaiters.ca or on social media by using @BishopsGaiters.
 
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