The Red Army looks to take one step closer to the Championship tomorrow night when they reacquaint with their rival Prestige Worldwide. Just as the case was with the Shockers, Mother Russia split her season series with PW 1-1 (though the loss they suffered was in overtime... a point that proved to be quite valuable at season's end). So what do Mother Russia's Boys have to do to make sure they win game 3? Well, let's look at the things that got them here, the things that almost stopped them from getting here, and the things that make you go "mmmm sweet sausages!" (I'm afraid I may be the only insider on this joke... anyone else get the reference?)
First, what's going right. Put simply: a lot. Winning 10 games in a row to end the season and clinch a first round bye and then advance into the third round is pretty impressive. But let there be no mistake about it, while Mother Russia has been good, she has also had lady luck on her side. The two might be sisters, or even twins Basil, twins (how about that one?). The truth is, there haven't been many convincing victories for the Red Army this season (save for the 14-0 white wash of the Hurricanes and the game against Mozambweak). Even the season finale, which saw the Soviets skate away with a 7-1 win over PW, was far closer than the score indicated. Matt Kraus had to stand on his head in the opening period just to keep the score 0-0 before the Comrades were able to score five quick goals in under five minutes to start the second period. That is not something I would bank on happening again. Even against the Shockers, Mother Russia had far too many chances to put the game away but couldn't, and continued to let Loges and company come back.
But enough doubting, what has to happen? Here are some things, in easy-to-read hyphenated style:
-Quick start. After surrendering two early goals against the Shockers, the Soviets had to play from behind for all of the first period. Don't think the same mistake can be made against PW, they might not wait around for the score to be tied.
-Secondary scoring. I wouldn't expect another game like that from Mark Hendricks, especially since he'll most likely be shadowed, but if other players can score, things may open up a bit more for #18.
-Kraus in the house. Forget the performance against the Shockers. Let's see the Kraus that's been a brick wall.
-Special teams. Score on the powerplay this game, don't give up goals when you have the extra man.
That's it for now, for those of you wondering, the four remaining teams are seeds 1-4.
1) Cryptic Stench vs 4) Strangers
2) Red Army vs 3) Prestige Worldwide
The Red Army's cumulative record against these three foes? 4-0-1. Means nothing if you lay an egg in the playoffs. One win down, three to go. Number two is on the table tomorrow, get it Comrades, and take Mother Russia one step further from the Shire than she's ever been... (I know you got that reference). Here's hoping for hat tricks and treats.
PROJECTED LINES:
Mark/Pat/Ben/Andy
Steve/Tony/Ryan/Hoefer
Kraus
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