Finally, this disasterous season is over. Amen.Sunday's afternoon game was no different than any other Wrangler game. Passes were missed. Little or no cycling the puck in the offensive zone. Missed checks. No forwards helping the "D". Leaving the "back door" open. Offensive and defensive mistakes. And more. The Wranglers lost 0-11. But what made this game special was that it was a collection of the "core" Wranglers. That is, those Wranglers who started back in August and lasted all through this disasterous season - all six month. Here's the final game Wrangler roster: Chase, Summa, Purslow, Robison, Riemersma, Jossie, Steiner, Fitchner, Kramer, and Blanton. The only exception was newcomer goalie SJ Graupensberger. What you might ask happened to newcomers Miller, Bricksler, Waterbury, Powell, and Luzaich? It's disgraceful. Powell and Luzaich just quit. Shame on them. What a let down to your team. Waterbury and Miller were let go because of violating team rules - getting kicked out of the motel at 5 AM for partying. Sure, Miller wasn't scheduled to play Sunday, but he was still a Wrangler. Bricksler for penalty antics in Friday's game. So, the final "Wrangler 9" battled the full roster of Lakers.
Another special treat was that goalie Chris Kramer played the ice as a defenseman not as a goalie. And, you know what he didn't do half bad. He had three good hits, made plenty of good plays, did fairly well at defense, and like all Wranglers - got scored on. But to see him play out there with all the determination with the rest of the Wranglers was an inspiration to all. SJ made great saves. Jared made great saves. Despite the score, the "core" Wranglers played good. I especially enjoyed seeing them defend against a Laker 5 on 3 power play and make 15 shots on goal. Way to go boys.
Finally for me the game ending buzzer sounded. It was a great relief. We waited in the lobby and "pounded fists" and shook hands with each exhausted Wrangler. It was a disappointing season, not to be forgotten, but now we're ready for a new season that has some promise and wins. GO WRANGLERS!
Stay tuned as the Wrangler Blog examines the playoffs, has some other interviews, and provides some post-season analysis.
