Marple Gladiators Dominate Steel City Shockwave, Advance to PIHA Finals

The Marple SK Labeda Gladiators Minor team made history by clinching their first-ever trip to the PIHA Finals, sweeping the Steel City Shockwave in the Keystone Division Finals. After a back-and-forth semi-final series against the Susquehanna Scream, the Gladiators left no doubt in the finals, combining explosive offense and disciplined play to secure the series.

Game 1: Gladiators Set the Tone Early

The Gladiators wasted no time asserting their dominance in Game 1, jumping out to a commanding 3-0 lead in the first period. Don Susini opened the scoring with a blistering shot just three minutes into the game. Goals from Garrett Dobbins and Jack Phelan followed in quick succession, giving Marple all the momentum heading into the second frame.

Steel City managed to get on the board midway through the second period with a goal from Nathan Planey, but Susini answered with his second of the night to seal the 4-1 victory. Marple’s goaltender, Millard Worslyo, was outstanding, making 12 saves on 13 shots to keep the Shockwave at bay.

Final Score: Marple Gladiators 4, Steel City Shockwave 1

Game 2: Gladiators Overwhelm Shockwave with Offensive Explosion

With the Shockwave’s season on the line in Game 2, they were unable to contain the Gladiators’ high-powered offense. After a tightly contested first period that ended with Marple up 1-0 thanks to a goal from Garrett Dobbins, the Gladiators erupted in the second period with six goals.

Dobbins led the charge with a dominant four-goal performance, including a highlight-reel finish at 2:00 of the second period to cap off the scoring. Sonny Ciocco and Jordy Maugeri also chipped in with goals, while the Gladiators’ defensive core, led by Anthony Amato, kept the Shockwave’s chances to a minimum.

Steel City’s lone bright spot came from Jack Shirley, who netted a consolation goal midway through the second period. However, the Shockwave were ultimately no match for Marple’s depth and precision.

Final Score: Marple Gladiators 7, Steel City Shockwave 1

A Historic Moment for the Gladiators Minor Team

The Marple SK Labeda Gladiators Minor team will now represent the Keystone Division at the PIHA Finals, a feat their Semi-Pro counterparts have achieved multiple times in recent years. This marks the first time in franchise history that the Minor squad has reached the Finals, showcasing the depth and talent throughout the Gladiators’ organization.

Led by players like Garrett Dobbins, Don Susini, and Jack Phelan, the Gladiators have proven to be a force to be reckoned with. Goaltending was also key in the series, with Andrew Sharkus providing stability in net during Game 2 to close out the series.

Series Recap

• Game 1: Marple Gladiators 4, Steel City Shockwave 1
• Game 2: Marple Gladiators 7, Steel City Shockwave 1
• Marple Gladiators win series 2-0

The Gladiators now turn their focus to the PIHA Finals, where they will face the best teams from around the league. With momentum on their side, the Gladiators Minor team will look to add their name to PIHA history.