Bensenville, IL-(November 11,2004) In an effort to shed their losing ways, the ‘Bulldogs’ shook things up by changing their lines, again. Unfortunately, the results were the same, as the ‘Dogs’ dropped their fifth consecutive game, 4-2 to the lowly ‘45’s’.

Perhaps it was overconfidence, or just complacency. Frank Lionello was quoted as saying before the game "We should beat up on these guys real good tonight. There is absolutely no reason we should lose to them after we beat them earlier this year!" Mr. Lionello is obviously not Nostradamus, and he certainly isn’t Vince Lombardi when it comes to pre-game speeches. The ‘Bulldogs’ played for much of the game like a team of thugs trying out-muscle their bigger opponents. "We essentially played down to their style" said Brad Cornis. "We should be out there playing our game instead of getting into a hitting match with them."

The ‘Bulldogs’ attacked first by scoring midway through the first period to take the 1-0 lead. Joey V. scored on a slapper that seemed to go right through the goalie. He was assisted by Maher Karim. The lead didn’t last long as the ‘Dogs’ allowed two quick goals to fall behind 2-1.

The second period was hard fought with neither side scoring or giving in. The ‘Bulldogs’ missed several golden opportunities, some on mental mistakes and the rest on some decent stops by the ‘.45’s’ goaltender.

With time running out in the third period and still trailing 2-1, the ‘Dogs’ made several mad dashes towards their opponents goal, without any success. With about eight minutes in the game, the ‘.45’s’ struck again. It wasn’t the prettiest goal, just perfectly placed to create some breathing room for them as they took the 3-1 lead. "In such a close game, it’s frustrating to come so damn close so many friggin’ times and not score" said defenseman James Senne. Maybe that’s why I found myself hammering those clowns a little harder than I normally do!"

The ‘Dogs’ rebounded quickly and finally scored that elusive goal by Jason Darfler to close the margin 3-2. Unfortunately that is all they would tally. Even after getting the ‘.45’s’ top henchman tossed out didn’t help the ‘Dogs’. No.16 T. Wronkowski, got the hook after he got into a scuffle with several players including Sal Karim (that’s right, we said SAL), the usually quiet and non confrontational portion of the Karim clan decided to trade shoves, kicks and punches with Wronkowski, a 6’2 300lb King Kong looking bastard with as much lard on his frame as he had age. Both players got tossed.

"I am both embarrassed and frustrated with tonight’s defeat", said Alex Martinez. "I think instead of trying to correct everything in one game we should constructively point out our errors, but at the same time utilize our strengths. One of them, tipping in rebounds, has been our most common method of scoring. Jason [Darfler] brought up a good point by keeping a guy in the high slot. We just need to keep our heads up and in the game at all times"

The loss puts the ‘Bulldogs’ in a tie for last place at 1-8. Without winning at least 3 out of their next five games, the ‘Dogs’ can kiss their playoff hopes to hell.

The Good:

-Passing: The ‘Bulldogs’ moved the puck well in their zone and the neutral zone. It’s the attacking zone where they struggle to consistently make good passes.

-Shots on Goal: For only the second time this season, the ‘Dogs’ out-shot their opponents.

-Power plays: Much as they have done all season, the ‘Dogs’ were 3 for 3 on power-play kills. It’s amazing how focused the ‘Dogs’ play when protecting on a power-play kill. However, when they are at full strength, they break down mentally and give up easy goals.

The Bad:

-Bad Strategy: The Bulldogs played over-physical hockey and positioned themselves too conservatively versus a team that was much bigger than they and far less talented. It’s amazing how focused the ‘Dogs’ play when protecting on a power-play kill. However, when they are at full strength, they break down mentally and give up easy goals.

-Penalties: Another week, another series of penalties.

-Offensive Positioning: The ‘Bulldogs’ rarely put themselves in position to capitalize on one timers, rebounds or screens.

-#16 T. Wronkowski of the ‘.45’s’. Fat, Old, Ugly and Hairy are qualities every man wishes for. With those fabulous attributes, I’m sure this guy has no problem with the ladies.

Joey V. & Jason Darfler for scoring. James Senne & Sal Karim for not backing down to their larger opponents.

Next up: Wednesday, November 17th at 10:40PM vs. the ‘Panthers’.