It was a reversal of fortunes for two teams in the playoffs this year as the Heli-Riggen Flyers knocked off the Lil' Enzo's Red Wings in five games to win the championship cup.
It was the opposite in the 2003 final match-up, when the Red Wings beat the Flyers in five games.The Flyers won the cup thanks to a strong effort in Friday's fifth and deciding game (April 23), downing the Wings 9-6.
"It was a great series right down to the final game," said Flyers netminder and playoff MVP Steve Hadden. "They got into some injury problems which hurt them because they weren't playing with a full team."
Both of the teams possessed some serious offensive firepower throughout the regular season, which carried into the playoffs.
The Flyers scored a total of 30 goals, topping the Wings by 11.
"We had enough firepower to win but when you don't have enough players it's tough," said Wings head coach Tony Bortolotto. "We really needed strong goaltending and it just wasn't there."
For the Flyers, who completed the season double-double because of their first-place finish atop the overall standings in the regular season, the championship was won from sticking to their game plan.
When playing well, they clamped down in the defensive zone and managed to keep the Wings off the score sheet and worked the puck around in the offensive zone to produce goals.
"We had difficulties when they were clicking," said Hadden. "we really had to pay attention to our defensive aspect because they can definitely score."
Flyers left winger had a six-point night in the final game, notching three assists and a hat trick.Like any final playoff series, all games were packed with intensity and action.
"They gave it everything they had," said Bortolotto, "they played their hearts out. The Flyers are a hell of a hockey club. They play extremely well as a team, and we came up against a club that wanted the cup really bad."
It was the team effort that ultimately prevailed for the Flyers.
"We're a tight group of guys who play well together," said Hadden. "We just kept it going into the playoffs and took the championship."
On a special note, all of the players wish to thank Calem Gardner and Leanne Skuce for their efforts this season.
"Without them, there wouldn't be a league," said Hadden.
