ANN ARBOR–Ashley’s Aventinus showed incredible patience Sunday night as they avenged a quarterfinal playoff loss dating back to last December to these very same Ice-o-Topes with a 2-1 victory that launches them into the Tier II championship.
“Nicely done, guys” congratulated a very happy GM Mark Woods.
The victory marks Aventinus’s first championship game in franchise history, and the first time since 2006 for many of the veterans who played in Tier II championship for Ashley’s Ruination.
“Seven years!” exclaimed defenseman Ron Coleman, playing on borrowed skates.
The game initially appeared tilted heavily toward the Ice-o-topes. Several players have had experience in the C league, including Ryan Goodwin and goaltender Chris Sherbeneau. Matt Baird was a late add-in to the team, prompting complaints from Aventinus team officials. And, the Topes seemed determined to win, battering the team with rush after rush. However, the team held firm.
A late first period penalty left center Jeff Phillion exasperated. “I was just going for the puck. How’s that a penalty?” he asked.
A fair question, but ultimately moot as center Chris Sutton punched in a short-handed goal with a minute and a half left in the period. Sutton kept the pressure up with amazing puck handling in tight spots, often stealing the puck and moving around three skaters.
“Look at him go,” admired Chris Boulter. “He’s like a greased pig out there!”
Following another penalty– this time a bench minor for too many men on the ice– defenseman Joe Crossno stole the pass and moved in for the quick strike, giving Aventinus a 2-0 lead with just over half a period left.
Topes winger Elliot Hall made it a one-goal game minutes later, adding to the tension. With just seconds left, a Topes winger tried to negotiate a tie. “I’ve never been in an over time game,” he suggested.
And, he won’t. At least not with Aventinus this season.