SUNDAYS #8 vs. RAGE:

(vol. 5S, no. 8; newsletter by c.g.)
We had 10 skaters for Sundays game against the Rage, so the heat didn't look as though it would be as big a factor as it had in prior weeks (and it was hot). The Rage had made some interesting additions coming into last night's game, namely the addition of forward Ernie Anderson, and goalie John Arena. Both acquisitions from the Howell Sharks proved to be costly for us.

The 1st period was an evenly matched affair with both teams trading scoring opportunities. Both goalies rose to the occasion however, and after a well played first period, we entered the second period knotted at zero.

The 2nd period saw the Pirates start to dominate, however we couldn't get one past the goalie, with approximately 4:00 to play in the second the Rage opened the scoring when a puck fed from the winger beat Depip low for the 1-0 lead.

The 3rd period began still 1-0, as both teams worked hard for scoring opportunities that were consistently turned away. With 7 minutes remaining the Rage struck again on a soft breakaway goal, and the 2-0 lead. The Pirates did not lay down however, as Scooby fed Scott Lematty for the one-timer to bring the score within one, at the 4:00 minute mark. The Pirates were reborn, and unleashed a flurry of opportunities, that if not for superb goaltending would certainly have resulted in us tying it up. With 1:00 minute to play, and the puck deep in the Rage zone we pulled the goalie andset-up for the final attack, we won several face-offs deep in their zone,and managed a few good scoring chances that just missed the mark. Finallywith just 20 seconds to go, Anderson skated the puck up, and wristed a weak shot that found the back of the net. Overall a very well played, and close game. The Pirates out-chanced the Rage, by what seemed to be a large margin, and both goaltenders were outstanding. Next stop, the playoffs.

LOST 3-1

THE
SILVER
SKULLS

1) SCOTT LeMATTY
For the lone goal and winning the regular-season goals/pts title (5 goals, 6 points total).

2) ED SOUTHWORTH
With his assist, he joined the 5-point club in a 3-way tie for second place in scoring.

3) NICK GARGUILO
For strong defense, and contributing to the offense with great passing and timely rushes (with that appearance, Nick qualifies to play in the playoffs for us).