Tuesday December 11(Semi finals)

(5)Punishers vs Bramabulls(7) S.O Game 1

A.Moffa's late goal saves game 1 for Bramabulls

A.Moffa was able to force a shootout when bagging his second goal very late in the game. In the shootout, G.Follano excelled denying two breakaways while A.Mirolla and M.Maggiore made sure to bury their chances. Both sides knew the importance of winning the this encounter, especially how tight this series would be. The Bramabulls did plenty of good things except for containing a key player-from the other side. And although they understood his threat, C.Gingras still got his way riffling four out of the five Punishers goals. With game one going in the Bramabulls favour, the Punishers had an hour to patiently wait and regroup to try and extend the series.

(2)Bramabulls vs Punishers(5) Game 2

Punishers clearly ready in bounce back game

Challenged by their captain J.Fidrilis to compete harder and raise their level of play, the Punishers stormed back with authority in order to force a third and deciding game. This contest was completely dominated-from the Punishers riding a 4-0 lead heading into the third period. The only time the Bramabulls got on board came fairly late in the game, and twice with power play goals-from the every same A.Moffa. Apart-from that, nothing went well for the Bramabulls. After setting up A.Laramee to get the ball rolling, C.Gingras eventually reminded his opposition that he wasn't done just yet. Gingras went on to add the Punishers last two tallies to secure a must win game.

(3)Punishers vs Bramabulls(1) Game 3

Game three hero A.Laramee sends Punishers to big dance

There was no doubt that A.Laramee was the key component of this important game. By providing his clubs first two goals, the Punishers would never look back completing a well earned accomplishment. The Bramabulls didn't address their foes-from game two and that was to get the better start. Only six minutes had gone by when Laramee spread his magic. Still not out of it yet, A.Mirolla kept the Bramabulls playoff hopes alive by cutting the lead in half. Unfortunately, one of the major problems that kept the scoring low for the Bramabulls was the play of A.Bitsakis. The young net minder remained cool and collective, and unless it was a grade A scoring chance, Bitsakis would not falter. Looking back, the Bramabulls had to figure out a way to try and capture the lead in their last two games in order to have a chance. The Punishers did their part and showed why they are deserving of reaching the final.

(8)Capitals vs AREZ(1) Game 1

Capitals continue onslaught into playoffs

Whether its the regular season or the post season, the Capitals had nothing changed-from their game. AREZ realised this despite formulating a disciplined game plan to limit the damage. C.Bezeau hit the net twice for a 2-0 lead and eventually added his third early in the final frame to complete a hat trick. By going down as early as they did, AREZ had no choice but to open up the game. And by doing so like struggling to get out of quick sand, the desperate side just kept sinking deeper. S.Morello took advantage collecting four consecutive points that included two goals. The only bright spot for the AREZ came in the third period when A.Zarzour finally got the better of C.Fortin. This loss would give J.Constantin one hour on how to dissect a very difficult opponent that barely has flaws in their game.

(2)AREZ vs Capitals(5) Game 2

AREZ couldn't put themselves in comfort zone

The one area that the AREZ have that is effective is their play with the lead. However, for a second straight game, they just couldn't get that first goal to try and make life difficult for the Capitals. Instead, the reverse happened and a duplicate scenario-from game one translated into this contest. The Capitals did all of their scoring in the first two periods that saw M-A Morin and his captain M.Champagne notch two goals each. AREZ did continue to fight winning the final stretch courtesy of P.Kawkab and J.Hassan but it just wasn't nearly enough. Even though the Capitals played this one with only eight players, it just didn't matter for how skilled they are. Perhaps, it would have been more difficult if they trailed but it wasn't the case largely thanks to C.Fortin, who was absolutely brilliant throughout the entire series.

The SalumiVino player of the night goes to A.Bitsakis of the Punishers. With goaltending so important at this stage of the season, Bitsakis did not disappoint winning back to back games where he limited the Bramabulls to only three goals.

With both series coming to an end, the league leading Capitals will take on a very resilient Punishers team. Even though the Capitals won the season series 2-1, the Punishers did take the last one to hand the Capitals their only loss. There is no doubt that both these clubs are loaded with talent in all areas of their game. With that being said, the small details will come into play between winning and losing. Look for staying out of the penalty box as perhaps the most important thing to avoid for how well both sides move the ball.