MONDAY, JUNE 25, 2001 - BEACH HOCKEY
TEAM 2 vs. TEAM 3 (the Battle of the Yet-to-be-Named)
Before I get into this week's recap, let me extend a challenge
to you, loyal readers. "Team 2" just isn't as catchy
as it needs to be. We've begun to think about new monikers,
but I want to know what YOU think. So hit that "reply"
button and let's hear your suggestions. The best names will
be published next Tuesday and possibly adopted by the team...
Team 2 (good guys) 7 - Team 3 (bad guys) 5
After a 19-9 shellacking seven days previous, Team 2 picked
up the shattered pieces of their collective ego and returned
to the scene of the crime; looking for vengeance and the free
beer coupon for winning. With two new players on their roster,
a rejuvenated goaltender, and a new game plan, the air was thick
with anticipation (which is, of course, highly preferable to
the air being thick with humidity or fear).
From the opening faceoff, Team 2 grew more and more confident
in their passing and control of the puck. Within the first three
minutes, they were up 2-0 and beginning to work together like
people who actually knew each other's names.
In an unusual lineup change, Greg "Goal by Numbah Foah,
Oah" Rolnick, shifted from his normal center spot to defense,
where he camped out five feet in front of the crease and directed
his troops like a seasoned general. Hooking, spearing, slashing,
sweating, swearing, deflecting, preventing, full-body-stopping
shots all over the damn place, Rolnick lead by example. He also
pointed out to his teammates the incredible truth that the less
shots they allowed on their keeper, the less chance said shots
had to go in. Brilliant.
It was also from the defensive end that Rolnick picked up his
two points of the evening, firing bullet passes to his wingers,
who took them in for the score.
Although the scrappy Team 3 attempted a late rally, bringing
things within one goal, Team 2 squashed their hopes with the
game icer with 35 seconds left on the clock.
When the final whistle blew, Team 2 had notched their first
victory of the season, 7-5. A jubilant squad patted each other
on the back and looked forward to next week when they will face
the infamous "Louie on the Park."
So until then, STAY TUNED!!! |