Semi-Finals Recap: Sting escape over Rebellion

by Anthony Flynn

The Suffolk Sting battled their way to the Metropolitan Division Finals after a grueling three-game series against the East Coast Rebellion. Despite a stunning Game 1 loss, the Sting rallied to take Games 2 and 3 with dominant performances from their stars and standout goaltending from Alex Parisi. The Sting now look ahead to their third straight showdown against the Empire State Snipers, with a spot in the PIHA Finals on the line.

Game 1: East Coast Rebellion 3, Suffolk Sting 1

The series began with an upset as the East Coast Rebellion relied on sharp goaltending and timely offense to claim Game 1. Ben Parker was phenomenal in net, making 18 saves on 19 shots, while John Pinheiro (#47) and Trevor Shea (#97) powered the Rebellion offense.

The Sting struggled to find their rhythm and couldn’t solve Parker, with their lone goal coming from Mike Tardino (#93) in the second period.

Key Highlights:

  • Pinheiro’s Playmaking: The veteran tallied a goal and an assist, setting the tone for the Rebellion.
  • Defensive Mastery: Parker’s 18-save performance frustrated the Sting all night.
  • Game-Winning Moment: Pinheiro buried the go-ahead goal in the second period to give the Rebellion a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

Game 1 Stars:

  1. Ben Parker (#45) – 18 saves on 19 shots.
  2. John Pinheiro (#47) – Goal and assist.
  3. Joe Salavec (#4) – Played tough minutes for the Sting and was active in both zones.

Game 2: Suffolk Sting 7, East Coast Rebellion 2

Facing elimination, the Sting roared back in Game 2 with a dominant performance, led by their balanced scoring attack and standout goaltending from Alex Parisi (#30). The Sting scored four unanswered goals in the first period, with contributions from Frank Dichiara (#64), Joe Salavec (#4), and Rick Seward (#7).

The Rebellion attempted to mount a comeback in the second period but fell short as the Sting overwhelmed them with relentless pressure and excellent team defense.

Key Highlights:

  • Offensive Explosion: The Sting’s balanced scoring saw seven goals from six different players.
  • Parisi Steps Up: Parisi bounced back from Game 1 with an 8-save performance in the second period, keeping the Rebellion at bay.
  • Sean Phelan’s Impact: The Sting defender added a goal and an assist to lead from the blue line.

Game 2 Stars:

  1. Alex Parisi (#30) – 15 saves, crucial bounce-back performance.
  2. Joe Salavec (#4) – One goal, one assist, controlled the pace of the game.
  3. Sean Phelan (#5) – Contributed offensively and anchored the defense.

Game 3: Suffolk Sting 6, East Coast Rebellion 3

With the series on the line, the Sting delivered in Game 3, securing a hard-fought victory behind another strong performance from Alex Parisi (#30) and a dominant showing from Frank Dichiara (#64), who netted a hat trick. The Sting built a commanding 5-3 lead in the first period, with goals from Dichiara, Tardino, and Seward.

The Rebellion pushed in the second period but couldn’t generate enough offense to break through the Sting defense. Parisi stood tall in net, making 11 saves to close out the game and the series.

Key Highlights:

  • Frank Dichiara Shines: The forward scored three goals and added an assist, taking over Game 3.
  • Resilient Defense: The Sting’s blue line, led by Salavec and Phelan, held the Rebellion to just 14 shots.
  • Parisi’s Redemption Arc: After a rough start to the series, Parisi sealed the win with an 11-save performance in Game 3.

Game 3 Stars:

  1. Frank Dichiara (#64) – Hat trick and assist in the series-deciding game.
  2. Alex Parisi (#30) – 11 saves to secure the win.
  3. Joe Salavec (#4) – Continued his consistent two-way play throughout the series.

Series Takeaways

The Suffolk Sting showcased their resilience, bouncing back after a Game 1 defeat to overwhelm the East Coast Rebellion in Games 2 and 3. Led by their top offensive performers—Frank Dichiara, Mike Tardino, and Joe Salavec—the Sting demonstrated why they remain one of the Metropolitan Division’s most dangerous teams.

Meanwhile, the Rebellion pushed the Sting to the limit, with Pinheiro and Parker leading a gutsy effort. Despite falling short, the Rebellion proved to be a tough out in the playoffs.

What’s Next?

The Suffolk Sting now face a familiar foe in the Empire State Snipers for the Metropolitan Division crown. This marks the third consecutive year the two teams will meet in the division finals. With a trip to the PIHA Finals on the line, this series promises to be another intense battle between two of the league’s best.

The Sting will rely on their depth, offensive firepower, and Parisi’s goaltending to overcome a Snipers squad that has been a thorn in their side in recent years. Can the Sting punch their ticket to the finals, or will the Snipers once again stand in their way? Stay tuned for what promises to be a playoff classic!