Championship Game: Whalers v Saskatoons. 8:30 PM

Hah ... Hah ... hah.... Did you hear that? That was me laughing. You didn't hear that? Well maybe you turned off the sound on your web browser. If you really want to hear it: [Click Here].

Why was I laughing?

Well -- let's just chalk it up to ignorance. I was by no means trying to disrespect either team but when I saw the Saskatoons take the floor, I didn't think they had a shot.

 Take a long look at the picture of the benches. Notice anything missing?

In case your wondering -- the bench to the far left is the Saskatoon's --- and no -- the subs for the Saskatoons didn't head over to the water fountain when this picture was taken.

The Saskatoons were attempting to win the Championship 'Iron Man' style.

That is why I was laughing. "Come on..." I said to myself "...the Whalers were undefeated all season (including a victory over the Saskatoons) and they have the benefit of substituting in fresh bodies? ... It's a no-brainer" --- Or so I thought.

The first period was a pretty even match-up until the Whalers netted one about 12 minutes into the period. Before I could even congratulate myself on predicting the outcome of the game -- the Saskatoons grabbed the opening face-off and raced to the net. The Whalers seemed to be in good position to cover the play -- but as the Saskatoon skated around the side of the net -- he sent the puck into the crease where it deflected off the defenseman's skate and BOOM! Tie game. But that wasn't it for the Saskatoons. Shortly thereafter they got another one past the Whaler's netminder. When the period finally ended -- the score was Saskatoons 3 -- Whalers 1. I imagine that the Whalers were wondering what hit them. I am forced to rely on my imagination because I was certainly not about to go over and ask them.

With a small lead -- and no substitutes -- the Saskatoons executed an extremely effective brand of dump & no chase hockey. While the Whalers were getting worn out skating up and down the rink -- the Saskatoons hardly ventured past the red line. Throw in a couple power plays for the Saskatoons & before you know it -- the score was 4 -1. The Whalers were able to get another goal --but that is how it ended

Saskatoons 4 -- Whalers 2

 The Saskatoons pose with the Championship Trophy. You know.. I forgot to ask them ... What the heck is a Saskatoon anyway?

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