Championship Bound

Our team posted a 42-28 victory in the semi-finals of the Maple League Playoffs. We defeated the Helsinki Roosters in a tough back and forth contest that showcased several changes in momentum throughout the game. We started the game with a flurry and jumped out to a 21-0 lead midway through the second quarter. The Roosters responded with a score before the half and closed the gap to 21-6 heading into the break. We expected to see the Roosters at their best in the 3rd quarter and they didn't disappoint with their effort as they scored twice in the first 7 minutes of the quarter. We will surely on the ropes, but we answered with a score of our own on as our QB Alex Rouse hit veteran Finnish wide receiver Tuukka Pernu on a play action pass. We carried a 28-21 lead into the final period. We added another score midway through the 4th quarter and extended the margin to 14 points. The Roosters weren't done yet and they answered with a touchdown pass to close the gap to 7 with less than two minutes to play. We recovered the onside kick and then ran the ball on two consecutive plays. Our opponent used their final two time-outs and we had a third and long to go with just under a minute and a half to play. On the next play, Crocs running back Greg Fountain responded with a long touchdown run to essentially seal the victory. The Roosters would again drive down the field, but the game ended on an interception in the end zone. What a game! I was very proud of our guys and the way they play the game. They never give up even when things are looking rather bleak. We had a real gut check when the Roosters tied the game at 21. I credit our players for having the ability to regain their composure and re-establish control of the game. The victory earns us the right to play the five time defending champion Butchers in the Maple Bowl. This is Finland's version of the Super Bowl, only with about 70,000 less people in the stands, and slightly less than half a billion people watching. In any case, it is big news in my life and here in Suomi. The chance to play for the trophy hasn't sunk in yet, but I will be giving everything I have this week to prepare us for this game. I feel so blessed to be in this position, and I am relishing every minute of it!!

The Crocs have one more mountain to climb this season.

We must overcome the Butchers to realize our dream of winning the title.

Wish you all were here to watch the big game

A team with a lot of heart

I really need to get this hair cut--- "Wonder how Justin Bieber puts up with this?"

Can't forget my little half pint

3 Cheers for the Crocs!


Lights out.