Bulldogs Eliminated From Playoffs, Johnny’s

 

GAME RECAP BULLDOGS Reserve One Homes Date/Time Rink 3 5 08/24/2006 @ 08:20pm Johnny's Ice House

August 25th, 2006- Four days after beating Team Real Living to advance to the second round of the playoffs, the Bulldogs were defeated by Reserve One Homes by a final of 5-3, effectively ending their playing days at Johnny’s Icehouse.

The Bulldogs started the game with 11 skaters, several skaters more than they’ve had show up for the better half of the season. Despite the increased number of players, the Bulldogs were unable to capture the win. Nevertheless, the ‘Dogs’ battled and made the game interesting against the top-seeded team.

The first period of the game saw no scoring from either side, as both teams displayed stellar defense. The Bulldogs had many opportunities throughout the first, but struggled offensively because they found themselves plagued by poor passes, both out of their zone and in the attacking zone. This would be a continuing trend for most of the game.

With the first period behind them, the ‘Dogs’ hoped to regroup and correct their offensive mistakes in the second period. However, R.O.H. would be the first to score in the contest with a goal three minutes into the second. The score would remain at 1-0 until the speedy Mike Montague scored an unassisted goal eight minutes into the period, tying the game at 1 apiece. Less than 3 minutes later, however, R.O.H. scored their second goal to give themselves a 2-1 lead.  With just over 3 minutes remaining in the period, a controversial call by the officials cost the Bulldogs a goal. With R.O.H. leading by a goal, Montague was able to secure a breakaway and score a goal that sailed over the goalie’s shoulder and off the inside top of the net. However, referee Joe Poremba was unable to get up ice in time to make the call, costing the Bulldogs both a goal and a tie to end the period.

R.O.H. would add two more goals to open the third period due to several defensive mistakes, giving themselves a three-goal cushion. The Bulldogs were able to add a goal two minutes later, with Joey V. scoring on a pass from Sal Karim behind the net, making the score 4-2. R.O.H. added one more goal with a breakaway resulting from a steal in the neutral zone. Montague scored with 1:36 remaining in the game to make the score 5-3. Trailing by two goals, the Bulldogs pulled their goalie but where unable to score. The game was called by the officials with just under 30 seconds to play, officially ending the Dogs’ championship hopes and playing days at Johnny’s Icehouse.

“I want to thank everyone that participated this past season at Johnny's,” said team President Alex Martinez. “Last night was our last game as we fell to Reserve One Homes. I also want to thank all the fans that came out to watch us this long summer season: Pam, Seth, Jelly, Belly, and all of Tony's Crew along with Darren's buddies.”

Despite the multiple disagreements and adversity they faced, the Bulldogs overcame and enjoyed their time playing (and drinking) at Johnny’s. They put together a great season and made a legitimate attempt at the championship but fell just short. In the end, the Bulldogs are satisfied and are looking forward to playing at their new home in Romeoville, IL where they will participate in the ASHL.