Despite starting the season 1-3, they finished with the second best record (8-6) in the Continental League to clinch their first ever playoff berth. Considering two consecutive losing seasons and a combined total of four victories in those two campaigns, their emergence this was quite an accomplishment. During the regular season, the ‘Dogs’ went a combined 0-5 vs. their two playoff opponents, yet they felt confident after easily wiping out the ‘.45s’ on Friday night.

The ‘Dogs’ jumped out to an early 1-0 lead as team captain Jason Darfler skated the puck up on a feed from James Senne and pushed it past the goalie. The quick goal infuriated the ‘Nationals’ and they immediately targeted Darfler for the remainder of the game. In a game marred by cheap shots and other nasty hits, the ‘Dogs’ kept their cool as their opponents frequented the penalty box. Erik (Adolf) Fenzel was tossed for his typically idiotic behavior.

The ejection and the penalties gave the ‘Dogs’ several power play opportunities. They were unable to capitalize on any of them. The skilled ‘Nationals’ defense suffocated the breakout, and resorted to any means necessary to stop their momentum. Had the ‘Dogs’ been able to score on one or two of those opportunities, this may have been a different game.

The ‘Bulldogs’ held onto their slim lead for twenty one minutes. Fatigue was the main factor, but a breakdown defensively culminated in the ‘Nationals’ scoring five goals in a four minute stretch. Darfler called a timeout to give his guys a breather and a chance to regroup. It seemed to help, as they came out with a little more intensity. The ‘Dogs’ scored their second (and ultimately final) goal. Maher Karim snapped in a Darfler rebound to keep the ‘Bulldogs’ hopes alive at the close of the second period.

Now facing an uphill battle, ‘Bulldogs’ were worn and noticeably fatigued. Tough as nails, the ‘Bulldogs’ played their best defensive period of the season. They matched their counterparts on every hit, causing several ‘National’ players to see stars. “Had we played with that same fire and intensity for the entire 45 minutes, we may very well have defeated them” said Darfler. “We stopped them from creating any kind of puck movement. Unfortunately, we couldn’t create any of our own opportunities either.

“It was a great effort” said team Alex Martinez. “Everyone came through for the team in the end. There was lots of hustle from everyone, despite being shorthanded and facing a highly talented team. We came into the season with the right attitude and the right players, even though nobody expected much from us. We won with OUR players. It had nothing to do with talent, but everything to with attitude, desire, determination and team chemistry. We saw a big improvement from a lot of players and only expect to go further next season. I am proud of these guys”  

Now that the ‘Bulldogs’ have earned their respect from the league, anything short of a championship next season would be a disappointment. With hard work, frequent practices and better conditioning, there should be no doubt in anyone’s mind that this team can’t take home the cup.

Player(s) of the Game:

• Alex Martinez-For 41 of the 45 minutes played, Alex stopped everything shot at him. He was voted the playoff MVP for his two games of stellar goaltending.