ATL Division Final Recap: Empire State Labeda Legends Sweep Trash Pandas

The Empire State Labeda Legends made a statement in the Atlantic Division Final, sweeping the Champion Trash Pandas in two dominant games to punch their ticket to the 2024-25 PIHA Finals. With stellar goaltending, elite defensive play, and an explosive offense, the Legends proved they are a force to be reckoned with heading into Colorado Springs.

The Legends are no strangers to the PIHA Finals, having narrowly missed the championship series in the 2022-23 season after a heartbreaking overtime loss to the Snipers. This time, Empire State looks ready to complete the mission.

Game 1: Legends Strike First with a Balanced Attack

The Legends kicked off the series with a hard-fought 4-1 victory over the Trash Pandas in Game 1. It was a complete team effort, with contributions on both ends of the ice.

The Legends got off to an early lead when Aidan Ryan (#89) scored just over seven minutes into the first period, assisted by Doug Sheeler (#90) and Nick Walker (#88). Ryan added a second goal later in the period, putting the Legends ahead 2-1.

After a scoreless stretch early in the second, Marc Mayer (#9) extended the Legends' lead at the 10:45 mark. Tyler Steimel (#25) sealed the win with a beautiful finish late in the second period, assisted by Walker and Nick Lang (#92).

In goal, Matthew Lazaro (#34) was rock-solid for the Legends, stopping 15 of 16 shots, while Anthony Gizzi (#29) made 21 saves for the Trash Pandas.

Key Performers:

• Aidan Ryan (#89): 2 goals, including the game-winner.
• Doug Sheeler (#90): 2 assists.
• Matthew Lazaro (#34): 15 saves on 16 shots for a .938 save percentage.

Game 2: Legends' Firepower Too Much for Trash Pandas

Game 2 saw the Legends put on an offensive clinic, shutting out the Trash Pandas 5-0 to secure the series sweep. From the drop of the puck, Empire State dictated play, outshooting the Trash Pandas 24-18 and keeping them off the scoreboard.

Once again, Aidan Ryan (#89) led the charge, racking up a goal and three assists in a four-point night. Doug Sheeler (#90) continued his strong series with a goal and two assists, while Tyler Steimel (#25) and Justin Skelly (#26) chipped in with power-play goals.

The Legends' special teams were a difference-maker, going 2-for-2 on the power play, while their penalty kill remained perfect throughout the series. Matthew Lazaro (#34) delivered another outstanding performance in net, stopping all 18 shots he faced to earn the shutout.

Key Performers:

• Aidan Ryan (#89): 1 goal, 3 assists, first star of the game.
• Doug Sheeler (#90): 1 goal, 2 assists.
• Matthew Lazaro (#34): Perfect 18-save shutout.

Series Takeaways

The Empire State Labeda Legends showcased why they are one of the league’s elite teams with a dominant sweep over the Trash Pandas. Their balanced roster shined, with contributions coming from every line, and their stars—Aidan Ryan, Doug Sheeler, and Matthew Lazaro—were at their very best.

The Legends' ability to control the pace of play, dominate possession, and execute on special teams made the difference in the series. Their defense, led by Charlie Murray (#13) and Nick Walker (#88), stifled the Trash Pandas’ attack, while Lazaro provided steady goaltending.

For the Trash Pandas, their inability to generate sustained offensive pressure proved costly. Despite solid performances from players like Anthony Gizzi (#29) and Tommy Russo (#22), they couldn’t find an answer to the Legends’ dynamic offense.

What’s Next?

The Empire State Labeda Legends now advance to the PIHA Finals in Colorado Springs, where they’ll look to finish what they started two seasons ago. With this sweep, the Legends are riding a wave of momentum and will be one of the favorites to compete for the league championship.

Can the Legends complete their redemption arc, or will they face another heartbreaking exit in the Finals? Stay tuned as the PIHA Finals take center stage next month.