ISOTOPES HOCKEY CLUB

The Isotopes faced up against their nemesis, the Ice Mafia, in the final game of the 2011 Playoffs. During the season series the Topes were winless, coming up 0-2-1 against this very talented team. The Isotopes were able to flip the script in the championship game, coming out firing on all cylinders. Brenden Hayes' sweeping poke checks and Max Gomez's tenacious body work slowed the Ice Mafia's attack and Kevin Vaughn made numerous great saves as the Isotopes jumped out in front early, and carried a 3-0 lead into the midway point of the third period. Pat Collins led the Topes with a goal and two assists. Greg Popov and Jeff Imahara also scored as the team built the lead. The Mafia found their rhythm, however, and netted goals on three consecutive shifts in the third period to tie the game with 9:10 remaining. With all the momentum the Ice Mafia pressed the attack as the Topes scrambled to get the puck out of their zone. Then, with about five minutes left, the Isotopes found their game and pressed the attack, forcing an offensive zone face off late in the period. With 1:33 to play Matt Ludwick came up huge and scored the go-ahead goal. The final minute and a half was played in true Isotopes form as the tenacious forecheck and stifling defence prevented the Ice Mafia from being able to pull their goalie or register any chances to score again. The beer flowed freely at Stanley's after the game as the Isotopes celebrated their championship victory! Great win boys!

In the semifinal game the Isotopes faced the Reapers and fell behind early. The Reapers led 1-0 until the Topes netted three goals in the final 2:22 of the second period. Jeff Flett scored twice and Ken Ban added a another. Carrying a 3-2 lead into the third period, Kevin Vaughn was able to shut the Reapers down and Jeff Imahara provided an insurance marker. The Isotopes will face the Ice Mafia in the finals.

After missing the playoffs last season the Isotopes came out firing on all cylinders in 2011. With solid goaltending and scoring across all three lines, the Isotopes went 16-5-1 and receive a bye in the first round of the playoffs