Monday December 18 (Division 1 Final)
Classics dynasty run continues as they defat rival Dragons (Division 1 final)
They may have gotten that first goal, but the Dragons weren’t pleased on how game one unfolded. The Classics slowly but surely demonstrated their dominance, and who other than C.Gingras to dictate the terms. C.Gingras proved instrumental as he showcased his scoring prowess with a hat trick and two assists, leaving an indelible mark on the game. The Dragons faced a formidable challenge in containing the Classics offensive onslaught, and despite their efforts, they were unable to match the intensity and skill displayed by their rivals. The only thing focused on the Dragons minds was a better outing in game two. Playing with their backs to the wall, the Dragons showed significant improvement. The game was barely two minutes old, and D.Lombardi had already scored twice. However, the Dragons needed more than only a two goal margin versus a side that will score at least a pair. At times, the Dragons had opportunities to widen the gap, but were unfortunate to hit the cross bar a couple of times, and more importantly, a determined goaltender in A.Ekonomakis. Regardless, this particular contest was going to be determined toward the end of the game or in a potential shootout. It was just a question of who would get that last break. The Classics eventually smelled blood when the Dragons took a fairly late penalty. You could almost be certain that the series was going to be decided when having C.Gingras, J.Gagne, A.Kakivelis and C.Kakivelis controlling the power play. But with D.Delaronde making some jaw dropping saves coupled with B.Daniele making some huge interceptions to pick off passes, the Classics went empty handed on their late opportunity to claim victory. Instead, it took a late play stemming out of nowhere that saw J.Gagne stride down the wing and release a precise shot leaving all but three seconds on the clock. In what seemed could have been a turn of events for the Dragons, turned into a crushing defeat. The Classics ability to overcome adversity and secure the championship in such a dramatic fashion adds another chapter to their storied Legacy. On behalf of Hockeyballe.com, congratulations go out to Pat Santullo and the rest of the Classics for getting it done again.
(1)Dragons vs Classics(7) Game 1
(2)Dragons vs Classics(3) Game 2
The SalumiVino player of the night goes to Carl Gingras of the Classics. His consistent ability to make a difference on the court underscores his status as a top tier elite player. Tonight was just another day at the office for C.Gingras, who collected a bunch of points while doing many of the other things right like breaking up plays or winning his one on one battles.
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