FORT WAYNE, IN. - The Chicago Crush Elite squad put on a clinic during their recent road trip to Fort Wayne, Indiana, showcasing their prowess in the Fort Wayne Spacemen Showcase. Let's break down their impressive performance game by game.
Game 1: Chicago Crush vs. Motor City Gamblers
The Crush came out of the gates flying, lighting the lamp seven times in a dominant 7-1 victory over the Motor City Gamblers. Dominic DeMatteo was the star of the show, notching a hat trick and leading the offensive onslaught. The power play was clicking on all cylinders, converting on 3 of 7 opportunities, while netminder Johnny Augusta stood tall between the pipes, turning aside 20 of 21 shots.
Key highlights:
DeMatteo's hat trick (goals at 8:08 of the 1st, 3:31 of the 2nd, and 5:54 of the 3rd)
3 power play goals (DeMatteo, Dougan, and Large)
Cole Darlas netted the game-winner at 16:23 of the 1st period
Joshua Yeates dished out 3 assists
The Crush's special teams were firing on all cylinders, with the power play converting at a 42.9% clip (3 for 7). The penalty kill was equally impressive, shutting down the Gamblers' lone power play opportunity.
Game 2: Chicago Crush vs. Metro Jets Elite
In a nail-biter, the Crush eked out a 1-0 victory over the Metro Jets Elite. It was a goaltending duel for the ages, with Daniel Gurtner pitching a 27-save shutout for Chicago. The game remained scoreless until the dying moments when Mikey Large played the hero, burying the game-winner on the power play with just 1:10 left on the clock.
Key highlights:
Gurtner's shutout performance, turning away all 27 shots he faced
Large's clutch game-winning goal at 18:50 of the 3rd period
A defensive battle with only 1 goal scored despite a combined 61 shots on goal
The Crush showed their ability to win tight, low-scoring affairs, demonstrating the depth and versatility of their game. Their penalty kill was perfect once again, shutting down the Metro Jets' lone power play opportunity.
Game 3: Chicago Crush vs. Fort Wayne Spacemen
The Crush capped off their showcase with a solid 3-1 win over the host Fort Wayne Spacemen. Cole Darlas continued his hot streak, potting two goals to lead the offense. Johnny Augusta was back between the pipes, making an impressive 39 saves on 40 shots to stonewall the Spacemen.
Key highlights:
Darlas' two-goal performance (goals at 6:03 of the 1st and 10:27 of the 2nd)
Augusta's 39-save effort, including 20 saves in the first period alone
Vincent Cerrentano's insurance marker at 11:14 of the 3rd period
The Crush showed their ability to win despite being heavily outshot (40-20), demonstrating their efficiency and ability to capitalize on scoring chances.
Showcase Summary
The Chicago Crush Elite squad proved they're a force to be reckoned with, going a perfect 3-0 in the showcase. They outscored their opponents 11-2 over the three games, showcasing both offensive firepower and defensive prowess. The special teams were clicking, with the power play converting at crucial moments and the penalty kill holding strong throughout the tournament.
Standout performers included:
Dominic DeMatteo: Hat trick in the opener
Cole Darlas: 3 goals over two games
Johnny Augusta and Daniel Gurtner: Rock-solid goaltending, combining for 86 saves on 88 shots
Mikey Large: Clutch game-winning goal against Metro Jets Elite
The Crush demonstrated depth, grit, and skill throughout the showcase, sending a clear message to the rest of the league that they're serious contenders this season. As they return home, they'll look to build on this momentum and continue their winning ways in the upcoming games.
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