While appearing as a typical adult rec league game on a weeknight, this matchup of the Red Liners against the Butchers Union turned out to be something else. While the actual game had little sparks, it was the shenanigans during play stoppage that was the real entertainment. A number of Butcher Union players and an injured player in the stands were constantly arguing with one of the refs. This let to multiple delays in play as both sides shouted at each other. While the game would eventually be played, it was overshadowed by the Butcher’s perception that they were being picked on throughout the game.
Early in the first period, Judge Jim Dredd rushed past a scrambling Butchers D and deflected Kaner Jr’s cross slot pass into the net. These meat cutters did the best they could with a small seven skater bench. They threw multiple offensive attacks against the Liner D and their goalie, Bigfield, which they successfully blocked. A falling Kaner Jr. managed to wrist an on-ice shot just inside the far goal post. He would also net the Liner’s third goal less than a minute later but had the puck just the near post this time.
The scoring continued for the Red Liners with Pauley lasering a wrist shot into the open part on the far side. Butchers would get their first of two goals in this period along with their first power play. They did not capitalize on the advantage. But the period also had angry interactions between one of the refs and an injured Butcher player in the stands and later the Butcher goalie. As the second period wound on, more Butcher players became frustrated with the refereeing. One player was ejected after cross-checking Kaner Jr. and fighting. The Liners did not capitalize on this power play. Eventually Kaner Jr. would clang the puck to push the Red Liners lead to four goals.
With the clocking running in the third period, the Red Liners tried to keep the game moving. More arguing ensued but no penalties. The Butchers would get their second goal of the game early in the period which stopped the running clock. But the Liners answered with their sixth goal of the game after McClain found the empty net off a cross slot pass.
The Red Liners have one game remaining in their regular season. They have secured the first or second seed in their division. Their last game could be a preview of a late playoff series as they face the current first seed in the North section, Hyannisport Presidents. If they manage a win, tie, or overtime loss, they will secure first place. Playoffs start on Aug 17th.