Snipers roll past Impact into Metro Division Final

The Long Island Empire Snipers advanced to the Metropolitan Division Final with a commanding two-game sweep over the Champion Impact in their best-of-three series. Dominant defense, stellar goaltending, and timely scoring were the key to the Snipers’ success, as they secured victories in Game 1 (2-0) and Game 2 (3-1).

The Snipers now await the winner of the Suffolk Sting vs. East Coast Rebellion series in the Division Championship tomorrow.

Game 1 Recap

• Final Score: Long Island Empire Snipers 2, Champion Impact 0
• Shots:
  • Champion Impact: 9 (5 in the first, 4 in the second)
  • Long Island Empire Snipers: 18 (10 in the first, 8 in the second)

The Snipers relied on suffocating defense and goaltending in Game 1, with Dan Peterson (#39) stopping all nine shots to secure the shutout. The offense provided just enough support, scoring once in each period to build a comfortable lead.

Key Moments:

• 1st Period (10:51):Stephen Falkowski (#97) opened the scoring for the Snipers, assisted by Daniel Nelson (#66).
• 2nd Period (10:50): Nelson returned the favor, scoring the insurance goal with Falkowski assisting.

Game 1 Standouts:

• Dan Peterson (#39): Perfect in net, stopping all nine shots to earn the shutout.
• Stephen Falkowski (#97): Registered a goal and an assist to lead the Snipers’ offense.
• Daniel Nelson (#66): Contributed a goal and an assist to seal the victory.

Game 2 Recap

• Final Score: Long Island Empire Snipers 3, Champion Impact 1
• Shots:
  • Long Island Empire Snipers: 20 (15 in the first, 5 in the second)
  • Champion Impact: 16 (9 in the first, 7 in the second)

Game 2 saw the Snipers strike early and often, scoring two goals in the first period and maintaining their lead despite a push from the Impact. Conor O'Leary (#1) was outstanding in net, making 17 saves on 20 shots to backstop his team to victory.

Key Moments:

• 1st Period (6:27):Vinny Pontrello (#11) scored the first goal for the Snipers, assisted by James Rieger (#7) and Ryan Wolsiefer (#6).
• 2nd Period (3:18):Brett Eoviero (#35) extended the lead with a goal set up by Eric Rieger (#77) and Nick Casazza (#4).
• 2nd Period (1:15): Rieger capped off the scoring with a goal assisted by Daniel Nelson (#66) and Wolsiefer.

The Champion Impact’s lone goal came from John Ninivaggi (#86) in the second period at 7:54, assisted by Drue Santora (#72).

Game 2 Standouts:

• Conor O’Leary (#1): Turned away 17 of 20 shots to lead the Snipers to victory.
• Vinny Pontrello (#11): Scored the opening goal to set the tone for the game.
• James Rieger (#7): Registered a goal and an assist, playing a pivotal role in the Snipers’ offense.

Series Takeaways

Defensive Mastery:
The Snipers held the Impact to just one goal across both games, demonstrating their defensive dominance and discipline. Their blue line, led by players like Daniel Nelson and Nick Casazza, stifled the Impact’s attack.

Goaltending Excellence:
Both Dan Peterson and Conor O’Leary delivered exceptional performances, combining for 26 saves on 27 shots across two games. Their reliability between the pipes gave the Snipers a significant edge.

Balanced Scoring:
The Snipers showcased their depth, with contributions from multiple players, including Falkowski, Nelson, Pontrello, and Rieger. This balance makes them a dangerous opponent moving forward.

Next Steps

With the victory, the Long Island Empire Snipers advance to the Metropolitan Division Final tomorrow, where they will face the winner of the Suffolk Sting vs. East Coast Rebellion series. The Snipers appear to be hitting their stride at the perfect time, and their stellar defensive play makes them the favorites to claim the division crown.

For the Champion Impact, the season comes to an end, but with their heads held high after proving to be a tough opponent on this day.