Yeshiva Macs stun reigning champions, the Premature Shooters, to secure a 2-0 start in ISCA play.
Yeshiva University Roller Hockey, fresh from a smashing season opener, gathered once more at the Inline Skating Club of America in New Jersey on Wednesday night. They were riding high on their 13-1 victory over the Narcs. Plus, rumors were swirling about a new ice hockey team at the school. However, little did they know, a more significant challenge lay ahead – the defending champs, the Premature Shooters. As EITAN Levy put it, the Macs were "All in" this ISCA season, and they were ready to prove it.
In the first period, the Macs wasted no time lighting up the scoreboard. Zach Levy pulled off a move so smoothly that it made Vinny Nappi, the opposing goalie, question his career choices. Zach found the back of the net with a toe-drag goal just 6 minutes and 5 seconds in, and the crowd went wild! But they weren't done. Zach, the playmaking magician, set the stage for EITAN Levy, who deflected the puck into the net. The Macs led 2-0, and you could practically hear Nappi muttering, "How did I end up here?" It was a tight period, with both teams playing conservative hockey. The defense was as tight as the grip on a hockey stick. At the end of the period, shots were 6-1 in favor of the Macs. Defense, folks – it's the name of the game.
The game remained a nail-biter in the second period. Yeshiva's goalie, Micheal Mintz, was like a brick wall, stopping everything that came his way. Yet, with five minutes left in the frame, the Premature Shooters decided to spoil the party. Kyle Quinn dished the puck to Sam Haggarty, who found Nick Vechioe right on the doorstep., making it 2-1.
Tensions rose when Yeshiva's captain, Yoni Drazin, got caught high sticking. Premature Shooters saw this as their golden ticket to tie the game. However, it was the Yeshiva defense and Mintz who stole the show during those two crucial minutes. They blocked shots. They got sticks in lanes. They were like a brick wall wearing Rollerblades! The Premature Shooters' power play? Nah, not today! So, the Macs headed into the third period with a 2-1 lead, ready to show the Premature Shooters how to shoot a puck properly.
In the Third Period, the Macs went on an absolute goal-scoring spree! Yonah Sussia kicked things off 40 seconds in, breaking his goal-scoring dry spell since his game-winner against Colorado in the Elite Eight of Nationals. The crowd cheered, and Sussia had that "I'm back baby" grin. He proved it 58 seconds later, setting up EITAN Levy for another goal, and the Macs led 4-1. Eli Spinowitz decided it was his turn, slicing through the Premature Shooters' defense like a hot knife through butter. Then, Avraham Gellman joined the party, making it 6-1. The Premature Shooters finally responded, making it 6-2, but captain Yoni Drazin wasn't about to be outdone. With eight minutes left, he scored his first goal since tying the knot. The game had reached blowout territory, and the floor opened up, creating space for Drazin to capitalize.
That said, EITAN Levy wasn't satisfied. He fed Sussia for a one-timer, making it 8-2. Premature Shooters squeezed in another goal, but Zach Levy wasn't done showcasing his moves. He pulled off a series of fancy maneuvers for his second of the night. As EITAN Levy quipped, "He was toe-dragging through New Jersey all night!"
And to put the cherry on top, EITAN Levy completed his hat trick with a "Muffin.”
Macs win 10-3! Shots in the game were 19-8 in favor of Yeshiva, including a jaw-dropping eight-goal third period.
“We did a good job in the third period of wearing them down and taking advantage of their short bench,” EITAN Levy said. “Their best players were still there, but we were able to use our talent and depth to dominate.”
Three Stars Of The Game:
EITAN Levy(3 Goals 2 assists)
Zach Levy (2 Goals, 2 assists)
Micheal Mintz (5 saves on 8 shots). Mike produced a solid goaltending performance, especially during crucial moments in the game.
Unsung Hero of the Night:
The game's unsung hero was undoubtedly Yoni Drazin, the Macs' captain. While he may not have made the three-star list based on stats alone, his leadership and defensive play were invaluable. Drazin's defensive efforts showcased his determination and ability to inspire his team. His goal, the first since his wedding, was the icing on the cake and a testament to his all-around contributions to the victory.
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