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Chicago Crush Elite’s Valiant Effort Falls Short: Metro Jets Prevail in Showcase Finale


Chicago Crush Elite defend their net | Photo by Andrea Brogle
Chicago Crush Elite defend their net | Photo by Andrea Brogle

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich.- In the final game of the 2023 USPHL Detroit Showcase, the Chicago Crush Elite unit faced a tough challenge against the Metro Jets Elite, ultimately coming up short in a hard-fought contest that showcased the intensity of junior hockey. The final score of 6-2 in favor of the Metro Jets Elite doesn't tell the whole story of a game filled with ups and downs, standout plays, and moments of grit from the Crush.

#98 Forward Niko Dougan scans the ice | Photo by Andrea Brogle
#98 Forward Niko Dougan scans the ice | Photo by Andrea Brogle

The game started with an early goal from the Metro Jets Elite, but the Crush responded swiftly. Vincent Cerrentano's goal at 8:58, with an assist from Joseph Coglianese, brought the Crush back into the game after an initial setback. The period ended with the Jets leading 2-1.


Jaden Yuknis showcased the Crush's determination, tying the game at 6:07 with assists from Will Soldano and Joseph Coglianese. However, the Metro Jets Elite demonstrated their penalty-killing prowess, notching two shorthanded goals by John Spiridonakos and Peter Spiridonakos. The Crush entered the third period trailing 4-2.


#5 Defenseman Tyler Rentner looks to exit the defensive zone | Photo by Andrea Brogle
#5 Defenseman Tyler Rentner looks to exit the defensive zone | Photo by Andrea Brogle

The third period saw the Crush trying to mount a comeback, but the Jets extended their lead. Despite a spirited effort, the Crush couldn't overcome the Jets' defense. The final goals from the Jets' Sean O'Connor and Blake Botterill sealed the game at 6-2.


Jaden Yuknis and Vincent Cerrentano's contributions were noteworthy for the Crush, with each player finding the back of the net. The physicality of the game resulted in numerous penalties for both teams, adding an extra layer of intensity to the match.

#32 Goalie Tyler Siuda stone-walls the Metro Jets | Photo by Andrea Brogle
#32 Goalie Tyler Siuda stone-walls the Metro Jets | Photo by Andrea Brogle

Tyler Siuda faced a barrage of shots in goal, making 25 saves during the game. Despite the loss, Siuda showcased resilience and skill between the pipes.


While the final score may not reflect it, the Chicago Crush exhibited resilience and determination throughout the game. The Metro Jets Elite proved to be a formidable opponent, but the Crush will use this experience as a learning opportunity moving forward in the USPHL season.

#17 Ryan Brown and #74 Ryan Parkin advance the puck | Photo by Andrea Brogle
#17 Ryan Brown and #74 Ryan Parkin advance the puck | Photo by Andrea Brogle

The Crush will regroup and focus on the positives from the showcase, aiming to build momentum in the upcoming games. As they continue their USPHL journey, the lessons learned from challenging matchups like this will undoubtedly shape their future performances.


We want to give a heartfelt Chicago Crush shout-out to Andrea Brogle for capturing incredible moments of the Chicago Crush hockey action during the showcase. Your photos are truly amazing, Andrea! Thank you!


Upcoming Match: The Chicago Crush Elite is gearing up for a challenging three-game road series against divisional rivals, the Motor City Gamblers, starting December 2nd. They are eager to demonstrate their growth and determination in the ongoing USPHL season. Don't miss a moment of the action – tune in live on FloHockey.tv!

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