Metropolitan Minor Semifinal Recap: Suffolk Sting Outlast Legends Gold in Three-Game Series

The Suffolk Sting advanced to the Metropolitan Division Championship after a hard-fought, three-game semifinal victory over the Empire State Legends Gold, winning the series two games to one.

The matchup delivered exactly what a semifinal should—momentum swings, tight margins, and contrasting styles—before the Sting ultimately pulled away in the decisive third game to secure their spot in the division final.

🟦 Game 1: Sting Open Strong

(Game Sheet: ReWJ3I)

Suffolk set the tone early in Game 1, controlling pace and establishing offensive zone time from the opening shifts. Their ability to move the puck quickly through the neutral zone forced Legends Gold into a defensive posture, and the Sting capitalized on early pressure to build confidence.

Empire State battled and generated chances, but Suffolk’s structure and timely execution allowed them to protect their lead and take the opening game of the series.

🟩 Game 2: Legends Gold Respond

(Game Sheet: 09e95N)

Facing a must-win situation, Legends Gold delivered their best performance of the series in Game 2.

Empire State tightened defensively, limited second chances, and turned the game into a low-margin battle. Their counterattack proved effective, and they capitalized on key opportunities to even the series and force a decisive third game.

The win showcased the resilience that carried Legends Gold through the quarterfinal round and kept their postseason run alive.

🟥 Game 3: Sting Finish the Job

(Game Sheet: g26vKg)

With a berth in the Metropolitan Final on the line, Suffolk delivered its most complete effort of the series in Game 3.

The Sting played with urgency, applying consistent pressure while maintaining defensive discipline. As the game progressed, Suffolk’s depth and pace began to wear down the Gold, allowing the Sting to create separation and take control.

Empire State pushed back late, but Suffolk closed the game with composed puck management and strong defensive execution, sealing the series victory.

🔁 Series Overview

Across three tightly contested games, the Sting proved able to adapt and respond to challenges:

• Balanced scoring and depth across the lineup

• Improved defensive execution as the series progressed

• Composure in elimination moments

Legends Gold pushed the top seed to the limit, once again demonstrating their growth and postseason toughness, but Suffolk’s ability to elevate in Game 3 proved decisive.

🔜 What’s Next

With the semifinal win, the Suffolk Sting advance to the Metropolitan Division Championship, scheduled for tomorrow, Sunday, February 22, at Rapid Fire Arena.

They will face the winner of the semifinal between Mach 1 Moustache and Empire State Legends Silver, a series that is heading to a decisive Game 3.

The stage is now set for a championship showdown, as the Metropolitan Division crowns its finalist.