Gladiators Eliminate Scream, Advance to Division Final

by Anthony Flynn

The Marple SK Labeda Gladiators ended their playoff struggles against the Susquehanna Scream with a commanding 6-2 victory in Game 3 of the Keystone Division Minor Semi-Finals. After splitting the first two games of the series, the Gladiators leaned on sharp goaltending, balanced scoring, and fresh legs to secure the series win and book their spot in the division final against the Steel City Shockwave.

Game 1: Gladiators Steal an Overtime Thriller

Despite falling behind 2-0 early, Marple clawed back with two second-period goals from Don Susini, who displayed his offensive prowess by tying the game single-handedly. The Gladiators completed the comeback in overtime when Jack Phelan buried a power-play goal off a slick feed from Susini, giving Marple the series-opening victory.

Key Performances:
  • Jack Phelan (Gladiators): OT game-winner and two assists.
  • Don Susini (Gladiators): Two goals to spark the comeback.
  • Andrew Sharkus (Gladiators): Made 23 saves on 26 shots.

Final Score: Marple 3, Susquehanna 2 (OT)

Game 2: Scream Rally to Tie Series

Facing elimination, the Scream came out strong in Game 2, riding the momentum of Erik Balthaser, who scored twice in the first period. They kept the pressure on in the second period, with key goals from John Zelko and Danny Nguyen, ultimately defeating Marple 5-3 to force a decisive Game 3.

Key Performances:
  • Erik Balthaser (Scream): Two goals and an assist, leading the charge.
  • Danny Nguyen (Scream): A goal and an assist to ice the game.
  • Jarrett Snare (Scream): Steady in net, making 19 saves.

Final Score: Susquehanna 5, Marple 3

Game 3: Gladiators Dominate to Advance

With everything on the line, Marple responded with their most complete effort of the series. Andrew Sharkus, having rested during Game 2, returned to the crease and provided a stellar performance. Don Susini and Jack Phelan led the way offensively, combining for four goals. Marple jumped out to a quick 3-0 lead in the first period, setting the tone for the rest of the game.

Susquehanna briefly made it interesting with two goals in the second period, but Marple’s depth and relentless attack proved too much. Anthony Amato sealed the game with an empty-net goal, and Marple cruised to a 6-2 win to take the series.

Key Performances:
  • Don Susini (Gladiators): Two goals, continuing his dominant playoff run.
  • Jack Phelan (Gladiators): Scored twice and set the tempo early.
  • Andrew Sharkus (Gladiators): Fresh legs paid off, stopping 20 of 22 shots in Game 3.

Final Score: Marple 6, Susquehanna 2

What’s Next?

The Gladiators have finally exorcised their playoff demons against the Scream, who had knocked them out in consecutive seasons. Marple will now face the Steel City Shockwave on Sunday at 11:30am for a chance to compete in the Keystone Division Final.

With their well-executed goalie rotation and the offensive firepower of Susini, Phelan, and Amato, the Gladiators look poised to challenge for the title. The Shockwave, fresh off their own dramatic comeback series win, will be no easy opponent.

Series Result: Gladiators win 2-1