OAK FOREST, IL - The Chicago Cougars Premier squad came out swinging in the first round of the Midwest Division Playoffs, taking down their divisional rivals, the Decatur Blaze, in a hard-fought, high-octane series that showcased the Cougars' depth, resilience, and killer instinct. With a 6-2 thumping in Game 1 and a gritty 4-3 victory in Game 2, the Cougars advanced in style, leaving no doubt that they’re a force to be reckoned with in the postseason.
Game 1: Chicago Cougars Unleash the Offensive Fury
The series opener at Orbit Ice Arena was a statement game for the Cougars, who dominated from the opening puck drop. Despite an early goal from Decatur’s Kieran Prichett, the Cougars responded with a relentless offensive onslaught, outshooting the Blaze 51-22 and burying six goals to secure the win.
Nikolay Ouriashev got the Cougars on the board late in the first period, and from there, it was the Aiden Middendorf Show. The defenseman turned into a scoring machine, netting two goals in the second period, including the game-winner, and adding two assists for a four-point night. Austin Plumert and Rocco Romita also lit the lamp, while Caleb Berkenkotter sealed the deal with a shorthanded tally in the third.
The Cougars’ power play didn’t need to shine in this one, as their even-strength dominance and transition game were too much for the Blaze to handle. Cameron Boville was steady between the pipes, turning aside 20 shots and giving his team the confidence to play aggressively.
Head Coach Joshua Dallmann’s Take:
“That’s the kind of hockey we’ve been building toward all season. When we play with pace, move the puck, and trust our systems, we’re a tough team to beat. Aiden [Middendorf] was a beast out there, and our depth really showed tonight. But we know Decatur’s not going to roll over. We’ve got to stay hungry.”
Game 2: Romita’s Hat Trick Heroics
If Game 1 was a statement, Game 2 was a testament to the Cougars’ ability to grind out a win in a tighter, more physical contest. The Blaze came out with more urgency, outshooting the Cougars 40-39, but Rocco Romita stole the spotlight with a hat trick, including two power-play goals, to propel Chicago to a 4-3 victory.
Romita opened the scoring just 35 seconds into the game, setting the tone early. He added two more in the second period, both on the power play, showcasing his knack for finding soft spots in the defense and burying his chances. William Stornello was a playmaking machine, dishing out three assists, while Jordan Trakosas added two helpers of his own.
The Blaze made things interesting in the third period, with Kieran Prichett and Oscar Sizemore scoring to cut the deficit to one. But Austin Plumert iced the game with an empty-netter at 18:29, securing the series win for the Cougars. Cameron Boville was once again a rock in net, making 37 saves, including several key stops during a late Blaze push.
Head Coach Joshua Dallmann’s Take:
“Rocco [Romita] was a difference-maker tonight. He’s got that clutch gene, and when the lights are brightest, he shows up. But this was a full team effort. Our PK was huge, our power play delivered, and Boville stood tall when we needed him. That’s playoff hockey.”
Series MVP: Rocco Romita
Romita was the undisputed star of the series, racking up four goals and showing why he’s one of the most dangerous forwards in the league. His ability to elevate his game in crucial moments was on full display, and his chemistry with linemates William Stornello and Jordan Trakosas was a nightmare for the Blaze defense.
Key Takeaways
Depth Scoring: The Cougars didn’t rely on just one line to get the job done. Middendorf, Romita, Plumert, and Berkenkotter all contributed big goals, showcasing the team’s balanced attack.
Special Teams: While the power play was quiet in Game 1, it came alive in Game 2, going 2-for-5. The penalty kill was also stellar, shutting down the Blaze’s power play in key moments.
Cameron Boville’s Steadiness: The Cougars’ netminder was a calming presence, making timely saves and giving his team the confidence to play aggressively.
Looking Ahead
With the Blaze in the rearview mirror, the Cougars now set their sights on the next round of the playoffs. If they can maintain this level of play—combining offensive firepower, defensive discipline, and stellar goaltending—they’ll be a tough out for anyone in the Midwest Division.
As Coach Dallmann put it: “We’re not satisfied. This is just the first step. We’ve got bigger goals, and we’re going to keep pushing.”
The Cougars are on the prowl, and the rest of the division has been put on notice. Let’s see if they can keep this momentum rolling.
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