National Sports

Josh Morrissey remembers the city coming to life before his eyes. A nine-year-old Flames fan in the spring of 2004, he was captivated by every Jarome Iginla chance and Miikka Kiprusoff save during Calgary's run to the Stanley Cup final.

On his third stop in the Canadian Premier League, Manny Aparicio is closer to home and, hopefully, another title.

EDMONTON — There are a few sure signs of spring in Alberta.

TORONTO — There was a welcome sighting of Toronto FC star Lorenzo Insigne running with a trainer Friday while the rest of the team warmed up before training on a damp day at BMO Field.

Toronto FC and the New England Revolution are both looking to climb out of a hole when they meet Saturday at BMO Field. After a promising start under John Herdman, injury-depleted Toronto (3-4-1) has lost three straight while being outscored 10-3.

MONTREAL — CF Montreal will have to put their depth to the test this weekend.

OTTAWA — Another season out of the playoffs has left Ottawa Senators players frustrated and disappointed, but a complete overhaul doesn't appear to be in Steve Staios's plans.

VANCOUVER — Expectations for the Vancouver Canucks were not high heading into the season. Asked in September if he expected the team to make the playoffs, president of hockey operations Jim Rutherford hedged.

CALGARY — Winning more games and the construction of a new arena will convince more NHL players that Calgary is a desirable place to play, some Flames say as they head for the exits.

Receiver Eugene Lewis can't wait to start earning quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson's trust. The signing of Bethel-Thompson, a two-time Grey Cup champion, was Edmonton's biggest off-season move.