Monday May 2

Lyft Off getting hot right before the playoffs

While the Lyft Off have had their ups and downs, they showed they can be one of the best teams in the division despite what their record shows. For sure they will keep thriving as they have high ambitions knowing that they can be part of the conversation. Tonight, they played again to their identity and took both their games versus ETNA. The Lyft Off rely on speed and quick transition plays that keeps their opponent guessing on how to play without the ball. After collecting an easy 7-2 win, the second match proved to be a lot closer but still with the Lyft Off prevailing. J.Mancini had the extra jump collecting four points in the first game while S.Sak was influential in the second encounter bagging two markers.

(2)ETNA vs Lyft Off(7)

(5)Lyft Off vs ETNA(4)

Degenerates find a way to split with United Arms

The Degenerates knew that they had a difficult challenge ahead of them with their depleted roster. They almost had no choice but to score first in order to give themselves a decent chance. The first game didn’t quite work out as the United Arms go their first on a goal by A.Tachejian. S.Balouzian would eventually double the lead on the power play, and the United Arms continued to play relentless versus a tired opponent. A.Tachejian added his second early in the final frame for a comfortable cushion despite plenty of time left over. Still, the Degenerates understood how much the first goal of the game would potentially turn the tides in their favor entering their second match. After a scoreless opening frame, A.Desrosiers came in releasing a beautiful wrist shot to finally beat J.Arouchian, who was perfect up until that point. Luckily enough they managed a second goal just in case the United Arms would  get themselves closer for how much pressure they were putting. F.Koch was there however to stop all 19 shots he faced leaving his tongue on the floor after an enduring battle.

(0)Degenerates vs United Arms(3)

(0)United Arms vs Degenerates(2)

Snipers had their hands full in both wins versus Diabetoz Angels

It wasn’t their most convincing win, but the Snipers took it in the end thanks to their captain Ali Khanafer snapping a late 2-2 tie. The Diabetoz Angels put up a good fight and could have easily taken the first encounter if not for some bad luck. J.Romeo led the charge netting both goals for the Diabetoz Angels, who looked to get some pay back after suffering a close loss. To their credit, they challenged the Snipers on the large part and led at one point 3-2 early in the final frame. Unable to keep their rhythm, the Snipers managed to turn the table with a heavy response. Four different players scored in the span of only four minutes to mount a second period comeback. N.Atoui notched his second for the winner right before Hadi Khanafer and  J.Hassan capped it off with some insurance.

(3)Snipers vs Diabetoz Angels(2)

(3)Diabetoz Angels vs Snipers(6)

Altius recover after earlier loss to Bonjours High

Ultimately, both teams wanted to win tonight as it served as a perfect measuring stick heading into the playoffs. No doubt, both teams were engaged and extremely difficult to play against for how much effort was put out. The Bonjours High had the advantage of taking the two games after winning the first encounter 3-1. The onus was now on the Altius to respond and show that they are equally deserving. M.Melo and P.Arkalis each scored getting the start they needed which forced the Bonjours High to press a lot harder. Eventually their captain D.Gkeivelopoulos narrowed the gap on a deceiving wrist shot to beat P.Delli Colli. Both teams knew that the Bonjours High was going to push in order to get that equalizers. However, the Altius expected it and adjusted making sure not to give up too many chances. Yes, Delli Colli had to be good in which he was making some nice key stops. Even though this was only a regular season game, it showed that the two sides treated this one like a final.

With the top ten teams are participating in the playoffs, the first round will feature the bottom four teams in a first round playoff. The match ups are as follows:

Tuesday May 3 (Round 1)

(7) Degenerates vs Lyft Off(10) The Degenerates will have their hands full. Again, they will have no choice but to get that first goal and try to defend as well as they can. The Lyft Off have the edge with their speed as they will utilize it in order to advance.

(8)United Arms vs ETNA(9) Its up to ETNA to play this one smart. If they remain patient playing without the ball, then they will have a good chance on taking out the United Arms. And while that is easier said than done, one things for sure, the United Arms wont give plenty of room out there due to their non stop pressure.

The winners of this round will play Monday in the quarter finals.