GAHANNA, OH - The Columbus Arrowhawks, a CAHL original 8 team, won it's third title Friday night, defeating the Eskimos 5-1 before a capacity crowd. Led by league-leading goaltender Jason Jensen the Hawks were tenacious in both zones, dazzling an overmatched but talented Eskimo club through all three periods.
"We skated well tonight," said long-time Hawk and top line center Mark Monahan. "The Eskimos play good hockey and were a tough opponent but we made enough plays to get the win," a pleased Monahan added after the game.
Jumping out to an early 1-0 lead from a Nate Mensel goal, the Hawks displayed strong blue line play all night. "We knew we had to be firing on all cylinders in both zones to get the win," said Mensel. "Our neutral zone passing had to be strong or else we would be sunk. We did enough to set up our goal scorers and overcome good defensive play from the Eskimos," added Mensel.
The game was a spirited affair. Jason Jensen made key saves early to keep the Hawks from falling behind. Through two periods of play, the Hawks carried the puck and dictated pressure. The top line of brothers Kevin and Bryce Griffith were too much for the Eskimos, registering numerous scoring chances. Oleg Chetverikov was a welcome addition, filling in for talented Bryan Griffith out with an injured shoulder.
"Oleg was great with the puck tonight," said RW Jason Tosok. "He was patient and once again proved why he is one of the better finishers in the league." Oleg finished the night scoring a goal and adding to a dominant 3 point performance from the top line.
Bryce Griffith scored the third goal of the night to give the Hawks a 3-1 lead, early in the second period. "The goaltender didn't stand a chance," said LW Tom Morgan, plus-2 on the night. Morgan scored the second goal of the night, netting a nifty high-wrister in silly-goal-scoring fashion. Morgan, a mainstay offensive threat for the Hawks was brilliant again from the high slot.
"I love playing for this team," Morgan stated in confident fashion."I'm a left hand playing with two brilliant playmakers. Mark and Jason are the key for me."
Mark Monahan once again proved why he is so valuable to the Hawks, with 3 key assists in the championship. "I just try to keep the puck in the hands of our playmakers," he added unselfishly.
Mac Lawless and the Hawk defense were stellar in front of Jensen all night. Each scoring chance was met with blocked shot after blocked shot. Terry Walker and Barry Snow played a key role in shutting down the Eskimos. When the Eskimos forwards crashed the net, they were thwarted with sticks and heavy body play.
"We just couldn't penetrate," said a frustrated Eskimo. "They were the better team tonight."
The Hawks won their third title in 6 of the last 7 championship tries.
"Dynasty?" said an elated Chris Carpenter, defenseman and utility forward.
We think so.
No comments:
Post a Comment