OAK FOREST, IL - The Chicago Crush Elite squad put on a clinic in the second round of the Midwest Division Playoffs, dismantling their cross-town rivals, the Chicago Cougars, in a two-game sweep that left no doubt about who rules the Windy City’s hockey scene. With a combined score of 14-5 over the two games, the Crush showcased their offensive firepower, defensive discipline, and a killer instinct that has them primed for a deep playoff run. Now, they’re set to face the Fort Wayne Spacemen in the Midwest Division Finals, with Game 1 scheduled for Thursday, March 13th at Orbit Ice Arena.
Game 1: Chicago Crush Unleash Offensive Onslaught (7-3 Win)
The series opener on Friday, March 7th, was a statement game for the Crush. From the drop of the puck, they came out flying, outshooting the Cougars 37-30 and capitalizing on their opportunities with surgical precision. Vincent Cerrentano got things rolling early, burying a feed from Mikey Large and Alex Guida just 8:46 into the first period. The Cougars responded late in the frame with a goal from Kennelly Clinton, but the Crush took control in the second period.
Ilija Marich was the star of the show, netting a hat trick, including a shorthanded penalty shot that electrified the Orbit Ice Arena crowd. Jack Martino added two goals, and Alex Guida chipped in with a goal and an assist. The Crush’s power play was lethal, going 2-for-5, while their penalty kill held the Cougars scoreless on three attempts. Johnny Augusta was solid between the pipes, turning aside 27 of 30 shots to secure the win.
Game 2: Crush Crush Again (7-2 Win)
If Game 1 was a statement, Game 2 on Saturday, March 8th, was an exclamation point. The Crush came out with even more intensity, outshooting the Cougars 44-13 in a dominant performance that left the Cougars searching for answers. Joshua Yeates opened the scoring just 2:22 into the first period, and Jack Martino continued his hot streak with two more goals, bringing his series total to four.
The Crush’s depth was on full display as Cole Darlas, Keith Watkins, and Connor Edwards all found the back of the net. Defenseman Ilija Marich continued to shine, adding two more assists to his series total. Daniel Gurtner, stepping in for Johnny Augusta, was steady in net, making 11 saves to secure the win.
The game wasn’t without its chippy moments, as tensions boiled over in the third period with multiple penalties, including a pair of disqualifications for fighting. But by then, the Crush had already put the game out of reach, leaving no doubt about their superiority.
Series MVP: Ilija Marich
Ilija Marich was an absolute force in this series. The defenseman tallied three goals and three assists, including a shorthanded penalty shot goal in Game 1 that shifted the momentum firmly in the Crush’s favor. His ability to contribute at both ends of the ice was a key factor in the Crush’s dominance.
Coach Phil Bushbacher’s Take
Crush Head Coach Phil Bushbacher was all smiles after the series-clinching win. “This was a complete team effort,” he said. “From our top line to our fourth line, from our D-core to our goalies, everyone stepped up. We knew the Cougars were going to come hard, but our guys stayed disciplined, stuck to the game plan, and executed. Ilija [Marich] was a beast out there, and Johnny [Augusta] and Danny [Gurtner] gave us the saves we needed. But this is just the beginning. We’ve got a tough opponent in Fort Wayne, and we’re not done yet.”
Looking Ahead: Midwest Division Finals vs. Fort Wayne Spacemen
The Crush now turn their attention to the Fort Wayne Spacemen, who finished second in the division during the regular season. The Spacemen boast a strong offensive attack and a stingy defense, setting the stage for what promises to be a hard-fought series. Game 1 is set for Thursday, March 13th, Game 2 on Friday March 14th, and Game 3 (if necessary) on Sunday, March 16th, all of which will be played at Orbit Ice Arena in Palatine, Illinois.
The Crush will need to bring the same intensity and discipline they showed against the Cougars if they hope to bring home the division championship. But if this series was any indication, they’re more than up to the task.
Final Thoughts
The Chicago Crush Elite squad sent a clear message to the rest of the league with their dominant performance against the Cougars. They’re not just here to compete—they’re here to win. With a deep roster, stellar goaltending, and a coaching staff that has them firing on all cylinders, the Crush are poised to make a serious run at the title. Buckle up, Crush fans. This is going to be fun. Catch all the Chicago Crush excitement live on FloHockey.tv!
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