After exacting revenge on BGHW, the number 1 seed in the Combined Blackahwk Cup, Waubonise Valley is in the state semi finals for the 2nd straight season. They take on Leyden, a combined team of Leyden, Ridgewood, and Elmwood Park. The winner advances to the United Center for the State Championship.
A few minutes into the game, the puck takes a big bounce past Nate Kozari which sends Anthony Bagnole flying down the far side. He gets a good chance, but his shot is saved by Justin Howard.
Under 6 to play in the 1st period. Leyden with a bad turnover and Will Troy gladly takes advantage of the miscue. He snaps it 5 hole on Adam Johnson to open up the scoring. Warriors lead 1-0.
They say one of the most important shifts is the one right after a goal. That is no different here. Troy gets the puck on net and Jack Flood finishes it off. The Warriors lead 2-0 at the end of the 1st period.
Waubonsie Valley now controls their own destiny in the Blackhawk Cup as they attempt to get back the United Center. In the 2nd, Chris Bishop gets the puck deep and Zach Pearce with a no look pass to Andrew McCoy to give WV a 3-0 lead.
Waubonsie has a power play a few minutes later. Will Troy has a shot saved, but Jack Flood is there and slams home the rebound to put the Warriors on top 4-0.
The Eagles need to make something happen quickly. Joseph Gulino forces a turnover and heads in on the fast break, but Justin Howard soaks up the shot. 4-0 Warriors heading to the 3rd period.
Leyden has a power play and finally find some life midway through the 3rd period. Joseph Gulino snaps it over the shoulder of Howard to get the Eagles on the board.
But that was too little too late as Howard doesn’t allow another puck past him and the Warriors are headed back to the United Center for the State Championship. They will see a very familiar face in conference foe Glenbard next Friday. This will be the 4th time for Waubonsie Valley in the Blackhawk Cup championship.
Make sure to check out last years State Championship game at the United Center!
