Metropolitan Semi-Pro Final Recap: Empire Snipers Sweep Suffolk Sting, Punch Ticket to PIHA Finals

by Anthony Flynn

The Empire Snipers are headed back to the PIHA Finals after capturing the Metropolitan Division Semi-Pro Championship with a 2–0 series win over the Suffolk Sting at Rapid Fire Arena.

For the Snipers, the victory is both a statement and a redemption step—returning to the Finals after falling short in the championship series last season and twice over the past three years.

🔵 Game 1: Deadlock Broken in a Grinder

Empire Snipers 2, Suffolk Sting 2
(Game Sheet: l2ZJvo)

Game 1 delivered exactly what fans expected from two perennial Metropolitan powers: a tight, physical contest with little room to operate.

Both teams traded goals and momentum throughout regulation, ending locked at 2–2. Defensive structure and goaltending dominated long stretches, with neither side able to pull away. The Snipers ultimately emerged with the series-opening win, gaining a critical edge in what was shaping up to be a razor-thin final.

🔴 Game 2: Snipers Finish the Job

Empire Snipers 4, Suffolk Sting 2
(Game Sheet: u7WV7V)

With the division title on the line, Empire delivered their most complete performance of the series in Game 2.

The Snipers controlled tempo early, capitalizing on offensive zone pressure to build a lead. Suffolk pushed back, but Empire consistently answered, showing poise in transition and discipline defensively. A late surge from the Sting was turned aside as the Snipers closed out a 4–2 victory, sealing the sweep.

🔁 Series Snapshot

  • Series Result: Empire Snipers win 2–0

  • Game Scores:

    • Game 1: Snipers 2, Sting 2

    • Game 2: Snipers 4, Sting 2

  • Defining Edge: Execution in tight moments and sustained defensive structure

Suffolk once again proved they belong among the Metropolitan elite, but Empire’s ability to manage close games and capitalize when opportunities appeared made the difference.

🎟️ Back to the Big Stage

With the championship secured, the Empire Snipers become the first Semi-Pro team to qualify for the PIHA Finals.

After suffering championship-series defeats in two of the last three seasons, including last year’s Finals, Empire now returns with renewed urgency and experience. Their Metropolitan run signals a team determined to rewrite the final chapter when they reach the league’s biggest stage later this season.