Propel MG Advances to PIHA Finals with Dominant Series Over Gladiators

In a stunning display of resilience and firepower, Propel MG swept the Marple SK Labeda Gladiators in the Keystone Division Finals, securing their first-ever trip to the PIHA Finals. Propel’s combination of depth, offensive efficiency, and defensive discipline overwhelmed the Gladiators, who fell short of the championship stage for the first time in four years.

Game 1: Propel MG Overpowers Gladiators Early

Propel set the tone for the series with a commanding 6-2 victory in Game 1, fueled by a relentless first-period attack. Propel scored five unanswered goals in the opening frame, including a pair from Matt Morelli, who finished the game with three goals and two assists for a hat trick and five points.

The Gladiators, meanwhile, struggled to find their footing, managing just five shots in the first period. Despite a brief surge in the second period with goals from Kyle Young and Jaylend Powell, Marple could not recover from the early deficit. Hunter Frattaroli was sharp in net for Propel, turning aside 10 of 12 shots.

Final Score: Propel MG 6, Marple Gladiators 2

Game 2: Propel Completes the Sweep with a Thrilling Comeback

Game 2 began as if the Gladiators had turned the tide. Marple came out firing, jumping to a 3-0 lead in the first period with goals from Kory Swansey (2) and Matt Engle. It was the type of response the Gladiators needed after their flat performance in Game 1.

However, Propel MG regrouped during the intermission and roared back in the second period. Chris Conner got things rolling with a laser from the point, followed by a Bryce Witman power-play goal to tie the game at 3-3. Moments later, a missed shot by the Gladiators on a backdoor chance proved costly, as Propel capitalized on the ensuing transition with Matt Morelli scoring the game-winning goal.

Propel didn’t stop there, tacking on two more goals before the final buzzer, including an empty-netter from Scott Huber, to close the game out at 6-3. Frattaroli made several key saves in the second period, finishing with 14 saves on 17 shots, while Propel’s depth shined with five different goal scorers.

Final Score: Propel MG 6, Marple Gladiators 3

End of an Era for the Gladiators, Beginning of a New One for Propel MG

The loss marks the end of an impressive streak for the Gladiators, who had reached the PIHA Finals in each of the last three seasons. Despite a solid core of veterans, the team struggled to maintain composure and consistency in this series, particularly after squandering their early lead in Game 2.

For Propel MG, this victory signals their arrival as a powerhouse in the league. With contributions from every line and exceptional goaltending from Frattaroli, they have emerged as one of the favorites to win the national championship. Propel now awaits the winner of the Western Division Finals as they prepare to compete for their first-ever PIHA title.

Series Summary

• Game 1: Propel MG 6, Marple Gladiators 2
• Game 2: Propel MG 6, Marple Gladiators 3
• Propel MG wins series 2-0

Will Propel’s balance and momentum carry them to the top, or will the pressure of their first championship appearance prove to be a challenge? One thing is certain: Propel MG is ready to make history.