Game #9 Report: Vineyard 6, Road Warriors 4

In the biggest game of the season thus far, the Crusaders earn a big victory and spoil the first place Road Warrior's quest for an undefeated season. It was a close, hard fought, physical affair, which nearly came to a bench clearing exchange of blows, especially after the reality of a loss set in for the opposition. Many penalties were called on their squad, and many more should have been called, but only one Vineyard infraction, a slashing call on yours truly. Road Warriors opened the scoring, but then Vineyard snagged the next two goals. From that point on, Crusaders would tally an insurance goal, and then Road Warriors would eventually edge to within one again. This sequence was repeated until the very end when Matt slid an empty net goal to seal the 6-4 decision.

An excellent defensive effort by the Crusaders, and we kept in check the potent offensive firepower that blitzed us in week two. A frustrated Road Warriors squad then resorted to some nasty stick swinging, with our offensive forwards providing the target for an aggravated enemy. Steve was the victim of a vicious mauling at the end of the game, in retaliation for his offensive dominance — he put in two of our goals, one on an amazing rush started in the defensive end, and went around multiple defenders before a spectacular deke on the Road Warrior goalie. The rest of the goal scoring breakdown: Matt got two, Randy got one and Chris (or Don, I may have this mixed up) got the other.

Crusaders are now perched at 5 wins, 4 losses, going into a final week showdown with the Phunk Junkies, in a matchup that may determine whether we finish in first division or are relegated to the consolation playoff bracket. Matt won't be able to make it next week, let's pray for his mission to Honduras. As for the rest of us, let's bring our A game next week!