Steve Nash is back with a new hairdo

Steve Nash returned to the Lakers lineup after missing the majority of the season with a fractured fibula. The freak injury occurred during the second game of the regular season when Nash collided with of the Portland Trail Blazers' guard Damian Lillard.

Nash has returned and with a new doo...but British pop-singer Morrissey called and said he wants his haircut back.

The Lakers started the season 0-11 but are now on enjoying a 4 game win streak and a sit with a 13-14 record.

Top 10 Toronto sport foibles of 2012

Top 10

Toronto Sport Foibles

 of 2012

1: Jays shortstop Yunel Escobar was suspended three games for writing a gay slur in Spanish under his eyes. He wrote Tu ere maricon in white letters on his eye black. Which translates in English to You are Faggot.  The Jays handed him a three game suspension.

2:Toronto FC’s miserable season.The team went on an 11 game winless streak early on and couldn't recover, finishing last place in the league with a 5-21-8 record.

3:Rob Ford fumbled his way onto the list with his slip and fall at the CFL’s 100^th Grey Cup kickoff party at Nathan Phillips Square.

4: The Leafs stunk it up again this year. Firing head coach Ron Wilson late in the season. The Leafs failed to make the playoffs for a seventh straight season; the longest playoff drought in the NHL.

5: The Raptors were horrible again. They were never in the hunt for a playoff spot, finishing with a 22-43 record. Further,  they failed to sign a top free-agent like Steve Nash in the off-season.

6:ESPN Magazine voted the Leafs as the worst professional sports franchise in North America. Enough said.

7:Jays manager John Farrell's decision to split Toronto for the vacant coaching spot with the Boston Red Sox.

8:Don Cherry’s Anti-American remarks re: Briank Burke and the lack of Canadian players on the leafs. Cherry blasted Burke on Coaches Corner, calling for more Ontario born players on the team, saying Burke has Americanized the Leafs too much.

9:More Rob Ford blunders. He makes the list again for his use of a TTC bus to usher his high school football team back to school after an away game. The move displaced passengers who were riding on the bus and Ford played it off.

10:Last but not least. The biggest foible of the year goes to Justin Bieber singing at the halftime show of the 100th Grey Cup in Toronto.

McGill Redmen Baggataway Champs

Peterborough- The McGill Redmen win the Baggataway Cup in overtime today at Trent University. Defeating the Western Mustangs in  7-6 in overtime.


Nearly 700 fans were on hand to witness the seasaw final at Trent's Justin Chiu stadium.


McGill  started the scoring. Western answered and built a 3-1 lead. It was close and the teams traded the lead. Western down 6-4 late, came back to force OT with a last second goal.

McGill scored late in overtime to win their first Baggataway Cup.  The second team from the east conference east to ever win the cup.

The trophy remains in the east and Quebec.
The defending champion Bishop Gaiters lost in the tournament quarterfinals.

The overall competitiveness in the league has improved and five different teams have won the cup in in the last five years.

CUFLA champions:

2012 McGill Redmen
2011 Bishops Gaiters
2010 McMaster Marauders
2009 Brock Badgers
2008 Guelph Gryphons

Lakers down Thunder 9-5 and can win Mann Cup tonight

The Peterborough Lakers are one win away from capturing the 2012 Mann Cup championship.

After trailing two games to none, the Lakers have bounced back, winning three straight and defeating the Langley Thunder 9-5 in game five and can now close out the series on Saturday night.

Langley Thunder came out strong and built an early 4-0 lead but tables would turn in the second as the Lakers scored seven straight goals and held Langley scoreless, taking a 7-4 lead into the final frame.

Mike Thompson came up big again in the Lakers net, allowing only one goal against in the final two periods.

“That is kind of the perfect picture as to who we really are,” said Thompson. “We don’t usually do things the easy way and we had a tough first period but we made some adjustments and came out strong offensively and defensively."

Langley had three goals called back in the crease and looked frustrated on offense but the team isn’t hanging their heads in defeat, they know they can play better.

“We had a great start tonight but we let a little bit of the process slip,” said Langley coach Darcy Rhodes. “But there is nothing that is going to stop this team. We are going to come out firing, guns a blazing tomorrow and we’re all pretty excited about it.”

The Lakers know Langley will come out and play their best tonight, as they look to force a possible game seven.

“It was a reality check being down four nothing in the first,” said Lakers defender Andrew Suitor.  “I think our offence were able to pick it up and our defense found another gear we haven’t found all series.”

The Lakers can close out the series Saturday night and capture another Mann Cup.

“I think you are going to see the best out of both teams come tomorrow (Saturday),” said Suitor. “I have all the confidence that we can come out on top and hopefully end this thing tomorrow but by no means is it going to be a 15-4 type game and if were not ready they are going to come in here and we’ll have to play Sunday.” 

Before the game both head coaches were suspended for the remainder of the series for their conduct with Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sports (CCES) doping officials.

CCES present games two and four, administering random drug tests.

Both teams failed to fully co-operate with the CCES officials and didn't allow the officials direct access to their change-rooms and players.

Rod Jensen and Jamie Batley were suspended for the remaining three games of the series but have both written a letter of appeal.

This is the first time drug testing has taken place at the Mann Cup and the CLA who handed down the three game suspension have to be accountable for the mistakes. The CLA should have done a better job educating the teams on the proper protocol and how to handle the drug officials. 

Lakers even series with Thunder and win game four 9-8

The Peterborough Lakers have come back from a two nothing deficit to even the Mann Cup series at two games apiece, after squeaking out a 9-8 victory over Langley Thunder in game four.

The Lakers have stepped up their play in front of goaltender Mike Thompson who came in to relieve Tyler Carlson early in game three.

“Mikey came in and helped turn things around for us in game three,” said Lakers forward Mark Steenhuis. “He’s saving the majority of them and has helped us get in a groove. We made a few adjustments on defensive end, as far as where we want to push our opponents on the floor, its working right now but I think we can still clean it up and have some more success.”

Discipline has been a problem for the Lakers throughout the series. They have cleaned up their play and taken fewer penalties but the Thunder power play was perfect, going three for three in game four. Steenhuis admits his team needs to stay out of the box.

“We dug a bit of a grave with the penalties,” said Steenhuis. “It has been tough this whole series trying to get to know what the refs are going to call and not call.”

Langley head coach Rod Jensen thought his team lacked the consistent effort needed to be successful; he credited the Lakers defence for stepping up.

“We can’t have 10 or 12 unforced errors offensively against a team like this,” said Jensen. “We have to limit their second chances and anticipate where the ball is going. When they shoot we can’t spectate. We need to find the ball and go get it like a pack of wolves.”

Langley gave up a power play opportunity early on, when they called Lakers goalie Mike Thompson for illegal equipment. The call backfired, Thompson was legal and Langley were assessed a delay of the game penlalty.

 “I don’t like to call goalies,” said Jensen. “But our goalie was convinced his shoulder pads were too big.”

The Lakers have played better in their own end holding Langley under 10 goals in both game three and four victories.

“For whatever reason we thought we had to adapt and play a different system that we played all playoffs,” said Lakes assistant captain Tracey Kelusky. “Bat’s addressed that and we went back to the basic defence we have been playing all playoffs.”

   --------

John Grant Jr moved into second place all-time in Mann Cup scoring passing CLA Hal of Famer Geordie Dean (67-94-161).  Grant has 71 goals and 93 assists for 164 points. He trails John Tavares  who is a sitting a point shy of 200 with 91 goals and 81 assists. 

Jesse Thomas on Off The Crossbar Team Radio 1410

Sept 11/2012 - Click here to check out the podcast of Jesse in conversation with Teddy Jenner from Off The Crossbar, discussing the 2012 Mann Cup between the Langley Thunder and Peterborough Lakers (22:30 minute mark of the program).

Lakers claw their way back into Mann Cup

The Peterborough Lakers trailed early in game three but were able to claw their way back into the series with 14-10 win over the Langley Thunder.

The Thunder still hold a two games-to-one series lead but for the Lakers this was the first time this series they played a full sixty minutes of lacrosse.

“I think our team defense stepped up huge tonight,” said Lakers GM and coach Jamie Batley. “Mike Thompson played great coming in for relief of Carlson.”

Tyler Carlson was chased from the game early in the first period and struggled to find an answer for the high-powered Langley offence.

The Lakers defense hadn’t looked sharp up until game three and were guilty of playing undisciplined lacrosse and seemed to step up their game in front of Thompson

“We didn’t let them go on their late game run,” said Batley. “We really dug down in the third period and went on a run of our own and I think we worked harder than them (Langley) tonight.”

The Lakers found themselves down 4-3 after the first period but regrouped and played much more disciplined lacrosse and outscored Langley 11-6 in the final two periods.

“I thought the Lakers elevated their game tonight,” said Langley head coach Rod Jensen. “Give credit to Batley. He must have really got his guys geared up in between periods.”

Penalty trouble and undisciplined play hurt the Lakers in the first period but they were able to turn a page in the second period and outworked the Thunder.

“I thought we stepped up and did the things we were talking about,” said Lakers defender Brad Self. “It’s one thing to talk about the things we want to do, like play a complete team game, stay disciplined and keep of the refs but I thought our defense stepped it up tonight and our faceoff team was unbelievable.”

Langley thought they had the Lakers early in the game but got away from doing the things that have made them successful.

“We had them early in the third but the biggest thing for us is to stay positive and stay focused,” said Langley forward Joel McCready. “Their transition has hurt us and we need to get back a lot quicker and cut of their bench.”

Jordan MacInstosh was back in the line-up for game three after being a healthy scratch in game two. He won many key face-offs and contributed offensively adding three goals and was named the player of the game.

Athan Iannucci has been unstoppable this series scoring 4 goals and was named the Thunder player of the game.

Langley down Lakers 15-14 in overtime

The Lakers held the lead throughout the game but couldn’t finish off Langley, who hung on and tied the game late, forcing overtime and winning a close one, 15-14.

The Thunder have done the unthinkable and beaten the Lakers twice and now hold a convincing two-nothing series lead.

“I don’t think we played a full sixty minutes defensively,” said Lakers defensive head coach Bob Keast. “We didn’t do our job, we have to tighten up and play a better team offense and when we do that we are really hard to beat.”

The Lakers faced two very good offenses in Six Nations and Brooklin, but Langley can move the ball around and also have the speed to go-on-one.

“We have a pretty you group and fresh legs,” said Jensen. “One of the things we had this year that I don’t think any other of the teams in the west have was depth.”

The Lakers offense have been scoring and Lakers head coach Jamie Batley admits his defense have to make some stops.

 “We hit 14 tonight,” said Batley. “The goals are coming for us. Were finding a way a to score on this goalie but we have to find away to stop them from scoring.” 

Some untimely penalties hurt the Lakers and the key to game three could be staying out of the box.

“We were undisciplined,” said Batley “Not only do they get a power play but now guys have to scramble and rag the ball, and other guys have to play the short man, it takes away from your longevity.”

Garret Billings was quiet early in the game but stepped it up late for Langley, factoring in on eight of the last nine goals to help his team come from behind and steal game two.

“I think we were down three times in that games and we managed to come back and tie it up,” said Billings, who credits his team and his coach’s attitude for the team’s great composure.  “I never get to excited one way or the other and Lewis and Iannucci are like that as well and I think it filters down through the rest of the team and its nice to know we are able to come back from a couple of goals and put balls in the net.”

Billings was a dual threat firing home 3 goals and adding seven helpers for 10 pts and was named Langley’s MVP but he is quick to credit his teammates.

After being held scoreless in game one, Cory Vitrelli found the back of the net four times and was named the Lakers MVP.

John Grant was injured late in the game, when it appeared a passing player clipped him in the knee. He had to be taken to the hospital and there is no word on his condition at the moment.

The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sports (CCES) were on hand for game two taking random samples for both teams. MSL commissioner Jim Brady couldn’t confirm if they were testing for performance enhancing drugs or recreational drugs as well. This was the first time players have been tested at the Mann Cup.

Let the head games begin as both teams wore white jerseys for the warm-up in game two. Langley wore black in game one and it was their turn to be the home team.

Mann Cup: Langley Thunder take game one 13-12

The Langley Thunder beat the hometown Peterborough Lakers 13-12 in game one of the 2012 National Mann Cup lacrosse championship.

“I didn’t really know what to expect coming into game one, ” said Langley coach Rod Jensen. “We didn’t play a perfect game but we did enough good things to make it happen.”

The Lakers John Grant was fired up in the first period, firing a hat trick from beyond the shooters circle and lifting his team to a 5-2 lead after one.

The Lakers came out flat in the second period and the first seven minutes the Thunder struck 5 goals in seven minutes, to take 6-5 lead. The Memorial Centre was eerily quiet and the Lakers had to regroup down 8-6 after two.

The Lakers managed to salvage things in the third and Grant tied things at ten but Langley would get two back of their own.

The Lakers would get their chances, but the bounces weren’t going their way.

Cory Vitarelli had some shots point blank but was held scoreless, by Langley goalie Brodie MacDonald’s right hand.

MacDonald, who won a Minto Cup with Jensen in Coquitlam in 2010, is still looking for experience.

“I haven’t got too much time in the NLL, so I haven’t faced many of those shooters,” said MacDonald, who rebounded well after his team got down early. “As a goalie you always want some back but you have to forget about the last goal and go for the next one.”

The Lakers managed to salvage things in the third. Shawn Evans scored two big goals late and the Lakers tied things 10-10 but Langley answered back quick, never loosing the lead.

“We thought we had the Mann Cup won in the first period,” said Lakers assistant captain Kyle Sorrensen. “We stopped playing for 20 minutes and we tried to crawl back but it was little too late.”

The Lakers look like machine when their on but tonight things looked a little loose.

 “We have to make a couple adjustments,” said Lakers GM and head coach Jamie Batley. “The guys already know what they are going to do. Defensively our guys need to trust each other and perhaps with the time off we stopped communicating.”

Langley forward Athan Iannucci thinks his team are coming together at the right time.

 “We have spent a lot of hours together off the floor and I think the hallmark of a good offence, is to be in sync and on the same wavelength and were fortunate to be there or as close as we can be right now.”

Everything is different on the road. Langley had a lot to get used to tonight. “We have never played on a floor with the benches opposite sides like this before,” said Iannucci. “We had to adapt, this is a loud arena, we couldn’t hear ourselves that well.”

Langley thought they had to be perfect to win. They didn’t. The last team from the West to win game one in the east was the Victoria Shamrocks defeating the Peterborough Lakers in game one of the 20004 Mann Cup but the Lakers would get the last laugh winning the series in six games.

Click here for game stats

Trent Lacrosse Kick-off sixth season

Trent Excalibur Men’s Lacrosse Team Kick-off Sixth Season.

Friday, September 7th, 2012

Trent and the Canadian University Field Lacrosse Association (CUFLA) begin the season, this Saturday at Queen’s University, for the Opening Showcase. Trent will play their longtime rival, the McGill Red Men at 2 PM. The event will bring all of the eastern teams to faceoff at one location.

Trent will return home Sunday to host the 2011 CUFLA champion Bishop Gaiters, in what many are calling the breakfast battle. As game time is set for 9:30 AM. Come bright and early to Trent’s Justin Chiu Stadium.

“Beginning the weekend against the top two teams from last year is big,” said Trent head coach Geoff McKinley. Trent is 5-3 all time versus McGill, but narrowly lost to them in last year’s home opener. “It came down to a last play,” said McKinley.  “We had a time out, we drew up a play and we got the shot we wanted but it just missed.”

This is a big season for Trent; they are hosting the CUFLA National Baggataway Cup Nov 2-4 and receive an automatic bid into the tournament.

“We don’t want to take the back door into the tournament,” said McKinley.  “We want to compete every game.”

The Excalibur held training camp a week early this season and McKinley could see the difference already. “We’re gelling,” he said. “

“We had the chance to scrimmage with the Ontario Under 19’s and I am seeing a lot of positives.”

Recruiting was a focus this off-season and their hard work has paid off with a dynamic group of freshmen and some veteran leadership from Clarke Robinson and Tyler Tanguy, two players taking teachers college and have experience playing at the University level.

“Leadership is up this year,” said McKinley. “We have some guys with experience and know what it takes to win. They will help the younger guys narrow their focus and reach our goal.”

Returning for the Excalibur is team captain and MVP Niall Caravello, who if fresh off a Minto Cup victory for his hometown Orangeville Northmem. Caravello was CUFLA’s 2011 midfielder of the year and lead the league with 33 assists & 11 goals in 10 games.

Kalvin Thomas is back in goal this season after sitting out a year. The two-time most outstanding goalie will be a major presence in the defensive end.

Jon Hiltz will return to an offensive role thus season. Hiltz lead the team in scoring two season ago in his rookie campaign.

Second year Josh Gilray will be looked too in helping control the offence and put up points.

Re-joining McKinley on the bench this season is Mike Temple and Josh Wasson-McQuigge. Dan Carey has joined the staff this year and brings years of playing and coaching experience.

Mann Cup: Does Langley stand a chance?

Langley head coach Rob Jensen has embraced the role of the underdog so well you might just feel sorry for him.

“The Lakers are like the NBA dream team,” says Jensen, to a crowd of players and supporters who packed into Memorial Centre restaurant for the Mann Cup press conference. “You don’t beat Six Nations in five games and do it on the road without John Grant. If I take out Lewis Ratcliff or Garret Billings, then were in for a real tough time.”

Langley surprised critics last year sweeping Coquitlam four straight, then upsetting New Westminster in six games to host the Mann Cup which Langley lost to Brampton in five games.

Lakers offensive coach Jim Milligan thinks Langley are better than they let on.

“I think they are doing that to counteract coming into our building with our fans and our record,” says Milligan. “We know they are a good team, they wouldn’t of won the west if they weren’t.”

Langley forward Garret Billings was just two points behind Grant in the NLL scoring race this season; Grant set a a league record with 116 pts in 14 games, Billings had 114 in 16.
Billings says his team has been riding the coat-tails of their defence and despite the underdog status, believes it should be a good series. “No athlete comes into a game thinking they can’t win,” said Billings.  “We’ll have to find some cohesion if we’re going to have a chance to win and play very disciplined lacrosse.”

The Lakers have a lot of things going including a two week break. Grant Jr says they team have been able go get some much needed rest and had time to watch some tape of their opponent. “They have a lot of standout NLL players and have made the Mann Cup two years in a row,” said Grant. “I think they are an excellent team and will be tough to beat.”
The odds might just be stacked against Langley -The Last time a team from the west won a Mann Cup on the road in the east, was 26 years ago when the New Westminster Salmonbellies defeated the Brooklin Redmen, back in 1986.
--The Last team to win the Mann Cup from the west was the Victoria Shamrocks in 2005.

Lakers vs Chiefs MSL Finals- Aug 21

Folowing game two thoughts.

Here is a link two all the goals from the TV Cogeco broadcast.

http://www.tvcogeco.com/peterborough/gallery/our-shows/2931-peterborough-lakers-lacrosse

Lakers have wore down the Chiefs and take a two game lead, coming from behind each game winning down the stretch. Teams have both been scoring in numbers, the Lakers had a four goal stretch in game two and never looked back.periods on each game one and two.

Game 1 - Chiefs had the 2-0 lead after the first period of game one.
In the second, Lakers strike six goals and win the game 10-7.

Game 2 -   Similar score after the first period, only two goals scored one by Six  Nations followed by John Grant for the Lakers.

Six Nations get some power play time and score two quick ones.
 The Lakers tuned in and went on a four goal run.

With a minute to go in the game Lakers goalie Tyler Carlson throws a bounce shot into the Chiefs empty net.

 Lakers are in Six Nations tonight for game three.

Here is the point streak game sheet and stats

http://www.pointstreak.com/prostats/boxscore.html?gameid=1996503



Game four in Peterborough will be on TV Cogeco.
Play-by-play man @Petedalliday  (follow him in twitter) will be there with the call. Host Tyson Geich @TysonLW has the interviews and yours truly @jessethomas21 has the analysis and colour commentary

The Peterborough Lakers can sweep the Brooklin Redmen

August 9, 2012

Lakers defeat Brooklin 11-8 and can sweep the series at home for game four. 

Cory Vitarelli talks during 1st intermission
with host/colour commentator Michelle Farrugia

Leading up to game three, all the talk had surrounded the play of Lakers crease man Cory Vitarelli. His physical play in front and around the crease has been a big part of the Lakers success. He has tallied eight goals and four assists in the the first two games.

To Game three, which was the most entertaining game.

John Grant opened the scoring for the Lakers and then on the ensuing play things get testy as a crowd gathers and Vitarelli has his helmet punched off by Scott Gamble who continued to go after Vitarelli with punches. Players piled up and and got tied up and the  officials did their best to split things up.

The penalty box was a busy spot and players were packed in like sardines. Peterborough had Grant, Matt Giles, Evans and Jamie Lincoln  in the box and Brooklin's big men Jeff Gilbert, John Durno and Kyle Matisz were stuffed in the other side.

Like game one the first period was drawn out with penalties and the score at the end was 5-2 but this time in favour of the Laker favour and they held onto the lead for the rest of the night.

Shawn Evans curls away from Derek Suddons.
Evans leads the playoffs points with 10gs, 18as.

Brooklin tried to get Peterborough off their game by luring them into the rough stuff but to the Lakers credit they stayed away from that and played lacrosse.

Things looked like they were going to get rough as Scott Evans shook his mitts at Gamble trying to even the score for the Vitarelli assault. But Evans invite was ignored as Gamble tried to look the other way.

To the third period and  with under a minute to go. Brooklin’s Shawn Williams went on a slashing spree. Chopping Jim Purves a couple times. The two went face-to-face and it looked like a fight might happen but it didn't. On the next whistle Williams chopped Shawn Evans and the two traded a couple of good slashes. At that point nothing more developed and the Lakers would take game three 11-8.

Tracey Kelusky has a shot on the crease
and Cory Vitarelli gets into a passing lane.

Shawn Evans led the way with four and four, Grant finished with a hat trick and one assist. Jamie Lincoln had two and one. Mark Steeinhuis a goal and two assists. John Tavares had three helpers. Kyle Sorensen scored one as well.

Tyler Carlson played strong in net for the Lakers and made some big saves down the stretch to keep the Lakers in it. Brooklin spent most of the game trailing by two or more goals but they inched back in and made it a one goal game midway through the third. Scoring a a long outside underhand was Williams making the score 9-8.
The game remained close until Evans scored his fourth of the game to make it 10-8 with under 90 seconds to play. Kyle Sorensen added a late goal.

The Lakers are undefeated so far these playoffs, outscoring their opponents 80-46 averaging just better than 13 goals for and allowing fewer that 8 against in six games.

The Lakers take a three game series lead with game four back in Peterborough Monday night 8 PM and the PMC.

Mark Steenhuis drags his way to the net.

Peterborough Lakers defeat Brooklin Redmen 10-8

The Peterborough Lakers began their MSL semifinal series with first place Brooklin Redmen on Sunday. The Lakers got off to a rocky start taking 23 minutes in penalties in the opening period and trailed 5-2 after a long drawn out first period that took nearly 45 minutes to finish.

 Officials had to stop play on a number of occasions and huddled at the timekeepers box to make sure all the penalties added up.

Mac Allen had five minutes for fighting, Shawn Evans took a slashing penalty behind the play, giving Brooklin goalie Aaron Bold a slash on the fibres that may of sounded bad but wouldn't hurt a cat. Kyle Sorensen's cross check rolled up Bold's shoulder and caught him in the neck and Mark Steenhuis took himself out of the first period spending six minutes in the box.

Before all the penalties there was still a lacrosse game being player and Brooklin got up three quick goals. Shawn Williams drove his man low and set a pick and allowed a gap for Scott Campbell to roll in and score on the teams first possession.

The Lakers transition got things rolling offensively for the Lakers. Brad Self took the down the floor on  a two on one and found Steenhuis streaking through in the slot who beat Bold, squeezing a shot over his should. Self then took an outlet pass from goalie Kevin Crosswell and Self finished the breakaway with an underhand shot between the legs.

Brooklin scored two more goals to end the first period with a 5-2 lead.

Brooklin came out the same way they did in the first, scoring on their first shot. Jamie Batley made the call to pull Crosswell for Tyler Carlson and the move paid off.

The Lakers rallied defensively allowing fewer shots and Carlson allowed only two goals in the final 39 minutes of play.

Stepping it up on offense for the Lakers was Cory Vitarelli, creating havoc around the crease, forcing turnovers and picking up loose balls on the doorstep and scoring a hat trick. Josh Wasson also scored and the Lakers led 7-6.

The third saw the Lakers outscore the Redmen 3-2. Picking up his second goal of the game was Steenhuis and Jamie Lincoln and Allen had a goal apiece.

Carlson played well off the bench. The Lakers defence kept on their toes and forced the Redmen away from the middle of the floor and out of their comfort range.

The Lakers played their best team game on offense. Moving the ball well, rotating, always running, setting picks and wearing out the Brooklin defenders.

Three Stars:

1st star - Cory Vitarelli: 3 goals and his spirited play around the net,  forcing turnovers on the crease. His best goal was a turnover steal from Bold and Viatrelli circled the net with the ball and slammed a shot lo.  Self set up Vitarelli in the slot for his first of the game, an outside one timer and his third goal came with under a minute to go in the second giving the Lakers a 7-6 lead.

2nd star - Mac Allen: had a fight in the first and then played a full out strong defensive game. bringing the action to Brooklin and making it hard for their players to their shots and creating turnovers.

3rd star - Tyler Carlson came in for relief early in the second and allowed just two goals in 39 minutes of play.

Out of the lineup was John Grant Jr, Tracy Kelusky and Scott Evans.

Game two is Tuesday 8pm at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

Sport fans and bookworms, you will enjoy this story called "Stickman" written by Don Barrie.  A book  about a troubled boy who finds his way with the help of lacrosse but finds out that his troubled past seems to catch up with him.

It's a great read and lacrosse fans will especially like it. You can purchase the book at the Laker games and get it autographed if you find Don, usually in the northeast corner of the Memorial Centre.

Peterborough vs Brooklin game 1 preview

The Lakers lost the season series with Brooklin taking three of four games. They won the last game to save off a sweep but the playoffs is a new season and for Lakers. Brooklin finished first overall and had a first round bye where the Lakers are coming off a four game sweep against Ajax who are not at the Lakers level.

Brad Self had seven goals in the first three games of the Ajax series he and Shawn Evans have been raising their game and will have to continue to lead the way on the floor John Grant Jr is indispensable and perhaps unstoppable. He has revitalized his game and is coming off a record breaking NLL season (setting a new single season points record with 117pts) and has been busy this summer spending time playing MLL pro field lacrosse with the Chespaeake Bayhawks and box for the Lakers.

Here is an article written about John Grant Jr by Steven Petrella for the Baltimore Sun.

Lakers Lacrosse vs Excelsiors

The Peterborough Lakers finish the regular season on the road Thursday night in Brampton. The cross divisional game means nothing for the standings as the first round of the playoffs are already set.

The Lakers finish second in the east and will host last place Ajax Rock, who have won just a single game all season. Brampton will face K-W Kodiaks.

Laker fans will remember midway through the season when Brampton came to town with a short staffed team that more resemble a cast of Sr B talent. The Lakers went on to win that game 19-5. The Excelsiors were without goalie Anthony Cosmo, Dan Dawson, Sandy Chapman and Joe Walters.

With the game thursday meaning so little and with the Lakers set to open the playoffs the next day, a question comes to mind, will the Lakers allow their older players to rest and give the younger guys a chance to play.

It's a tough call, and the other side of the coin is that the Lakers still need to find their rhythm. They have largely underachieved so far in the regular season. Their only significant win was saving a sweep by the Brooklin Redmen, who won the season series 3 games to 1 yet each game was close, the margin of scoring being a goal or two in each.

The Lakers goaltending situation is still a concern. Tyler Carlson was brought in by Ajax and was pulled midway through the second period against Six Nations. Mike Thompson was the backup. They still have Kevin Crosswell who leads the team with six wins, four against Ajax and one versus Brampton and Brooklin.

Who will the Lakers send to Brampton and will they be able to step up in the playoffs and defeat Brooklin this time around?

Brampton vs Peterborough box score Thursday July 26

Hurricanes nab Semin

Carolina Hurricanes have made two key additions this off season, trading for Jordan Stall on the day of the draft and recently signing free-agent Alexander Semin.

How does this first line sound?

Jordan Stall at centre, his brother Eric on the left and Semin on the right side.

Semin will be entering his seventh season in the NHL and signed a one year deal worth $7 million. He has 197 goals, 211 assists, for 408 points in 469 games.

With Carolina's depth at forward, perhaps Semin skates on the second line with speedsters like Jussi Jokinen, Jeff Skinner and Chad LaRose.

Another big right handed free agent Zac Parrise signed a 13 year $98 million contract with the Minnesota Wild, averaging just over $7.5 million a season. Semin has averaged a slightly better than Parise, averaging .87 points per game, compared to Parise's .82

Semin had struggled to find the back of the net in Washington this past season. Scoring 21 goals, his second lowest input since his rookie season.

The off-season acquisition raises the stock of the Huricanes instantly and could lead way to a Semin scoring 40 goals again and help lift the team from last place in the southeast division to the top.

Holy Cross win OFSAA lacrosse

Holy Cross win OFSAA lacrosse - click here for more

Scott Evans looks to make comeback

Scott Evans will have to prove himself again - click here for more

Lakers pound Excelsiors

The Peterborough Lakers let the cat out of the bag Thursday night, defeating a lacklustre Brampton Excelsiors lineup 19-5 at the Memorial Centre. The Lakers dominated entirely as nine players factored in on the scoring, eight of whom had two goals or more. John Grant Jr. led the way with a hat trick and four assists. Josh Gillam has two goals, three helpers and commanded the face-off circle, taking 16 of 25 draws.
The disparaged Excelsiors showed up with a depleted squad and looked ah though they were simply running the treadmill. Many of their principle players, including Dan Dawson, Sandy Chapman, Anthony Cosmo and others were out. Bampton's Brandon Noble was hung out to dry in net, until being replaced in the third period by Ryan Masters. Both goalies would be hard pressed to crack a Sr. B line-up, let alone stand in front of a high powered Lakers offense, who appeared to have finally found their rhythm.
3,000 plus, were on hand to witness the bombardment. Disappointed Laker fans began leaving the rink early in the third period. The game was as patchy at times and even absurd, resembling a Harlem Globetrotters vs the Joe's exhibition game rather than the only regular season meeting in Peterborough between two longtime rivals.
Note: The Lakers host the Brooklin Redmen Thursday night 8 p.m. at the Memorial Centre.

Saturday is SPORTSDAY

As I said before, I'd like to start calling Saturday, Sportsday. For ex, "Hey Bob, what are you doing Sportsday?" "Well, Bob (both guys are named Bob) just moseying around, watching sports and putting the BBQ on."

Sportsday June 9, 2012 - what a great day it was.

The HBO Welterweight championship fight between the reigning champ Manny Pacquiao and the 29-0 light welterweight champion Tim Bradley went the distance and somehow Pacquiao lost in a split decision despite landing and throwing way more punches.
Bradley was the aggressor in the end and fought the entire fight, whereas a Pacquiao seemed to toy with Bradley and only brought the fight to him in the final minutes of the rounds.

Harold Lederman and and the HBO broadcast unit were stunned by the split decision and so were many if not virtually all boxing fans. I haven't talked to anybody yet who thought Pacquiao should of lost that fight.

Pacquiao rocked Bradley a couple times in the early rounds and even looked like he could of finished the fight but I got the impression Pacquiao was holding back on his opponent.
This is the first loss for Pacquiao in the last seven years.


The Miami heat came from behind to defeat the Boston Celtics in game seven and advance to the NBA Finals where they will meet the Oklahoma City Thunder. Oklahoma earned their spot in the big dance, by  defeating the Dallas Maverics, LA Lakers, and San Antonio Spurs,  combined those three teams have won the last 13 NBA titles.
I have to admit I was pulling for the Celtics but with Heat moving on, it's a chance to see the two best teams go at it. Who do I think will win, you ask? I don't know...Oklahoma in six.

The New Jersey Devils were able to put a hold on the LA Kings dream of hoisting the Cup for the first time in franchise history. This is the Kings first loss on the road of the playoffs, they are now 10-1 on the road and return home to LA still up 3-2. The Devils have won two and row and have made this a series but can they win two more, I doubt it. I think the Kings are looking forward to winning the Stanley Cup at home, I have the Kings winning game six 3-1.

Has anyone been watching the Euro Cup?
Germany defeated Portugal 1-0 yesterday. The German coach was set to substitute Mario Gomez off the field, when the German forward took a cross volley pass and headed it into the back of the net. =  Portugal came on strong at the end, creating several chances to tie the game but the German goaltender was on his A-game.

The Bonnaroo music festival in Machester Tennessee have been live broadcasting all weekend, i'm going Phishing later today on youtube 

Olympic athlete encourages rowers to push hard

Olympic Gold Medalist inspires young rowers and encourages them to push themselves - click here for more

Jr A Lakers win in ovetime

Jr. A Lakers handed the St. Catharines Athletics their first loss of the season. It was the Lakers first overtime win to the season, winning 14-12.  The Lakers remain undefeated in four regular season games.
Connor Danko was facing his former team for the first time and settled in to the game midway and made some key saves helping the Lakers win a close game.

The Lakers opened the scoring in the third getting two goals in the first minute and go up 12-7. The looked like they had the game until some undisciplined penalties gave St. Catharines a shot back in the game and and they did, going on a five goal run to tie the game and send it to overtime.

The Lakers Brandon Johnson scored early into overtime and Dan Michel would seal it, scorin with 46 seconds to go.



Connor Danko made 44 saves.
Top Scorer was Josh Currier, who had four goals, three assists.

Out of the line up for the Lakers was leading scorer Zach Herreweyers who was away playing in a field lacrosse tournament with his school.  Still away at the NCAA schools are Matt Crough, Kyle Trolley and Turner Evans. Paxton Leroux is on the injured reserve with a broken arm.

The Lakers host the Toronto Beaches this Sunday 7 p.m. at the Memorial Centre.

Like father, like son

A couple of rugby dad's get the chance to play with their sons - click here for more

Kenner Classic Lacrosse Tournament

Kenner Classic Lacrosse Tournament is saying goodbye to longtime organizer - click here for more

Local golfers make the cut

Home field advantage helped two local golfers qualify for the Spring Classic Championship-click here for more

Jr. Lakers set to kick off regular season

The Jr Lakers home opener is May 11th 8:00PM at the Memorial Centre. They host the Burlington Chiefs.

The Lakers are coming off a 15-12 road win against Kitchener-Waterloo.

Lakers rookie Zac Herreweyers led all scorers with four goals and six assists. Herreweyers has just accepted a NCAA lacrosse scholarship at Loyola University.

Daryl Waud had two goals and two helpers.

Tyler Lafont had two goals and an assist, while Nick Weiss had one goal and four assists.

The Lakers goalie Connor Danko got the win. He was acquired in a trade from St. Catherines for draft picks.

NHL, Hopkins-Dawson 2, NLL

Question: What day is it? 

You say:  SPORTS-DAY!!!..(instead of Saturday) 

&

Saturday night, is now: SPORTS-NIGHT!!!....got it?

#DIDJAKNOW

There were two NHL playoff games on, the NBA playoffs have begun, the NLL wrapped up their regular season and there was an HBO boxing card. (I barely noticed but I spent most of the day on my ass in front of the television and had no human contact)  -- To do: Get out of the house and say hello to someone.

NHL

In game 1 - The New York Rangers hosted the Washington Capitals in game one of the the eastern conference semi-finals. The first period was scoreless and both teams had some chances. The Caps forward Alex Semin took a selfish
retaliation penalty to quell a powerplay and we had some 4-on-4 hockey momentarily.

Rangers forward Artem Anisimov circles behind the Caps net and wraps in the first goal of the game. This game was actually quite boring for the first half, I caught myself dozing off briefly and woke up to see a Washington player get hauled down on a one-on-one charge to the net, I initially thought there maybe a penatly shot awarded because the Rangers defenceman dove and took the feet out from under the caps player and made no contact with the puck. But no call and no penalty. But the Capitals get it back on a 3-on-2 break as Jason Chimera chips in a saucer pass from Brooks Laich with 3.5 seconds to go in the period and we have a 1-1 tie after two periods of play.

The speedy Rangers rookie Chris Kreider drives home a slapshot from the top of the circle to restore the Rangers lead. Then mere moment later, Brad Richards makes a nifty individual play from the corner and walks his way to the goal and slips a shot through the five hold of Caps goalie Brayden Holtby.

The score would end up 3-1 Rangers and they take a 1-0 series lead.

The Capitals hit four posts but this was a boring hockey game. There were very few shots on net: Rangers 14 - Capitlal 18. I wonder if any series will live up to some of the first round match-ups like Rangers - Ottawa and Philly - Pitt.

NLL

John Grant Jr had 2 goals and 4 assists in a 16-13 loss to Minnesota. 

With six points Grant Jr now holds the NLL single season points record with 116, surpassing John Tavares who has 115 in 2001.

Boxing

Why is Bernard Hopkins still fighting?

Because at 47 he still held the WBC light heavyweight belt. But no longerer he lost a 12 round unanimous decision to Chad Dawson. Fans may remember that Dawson had fought six months prior but the fight was called after Dawson threw Hopkins down to the mat landing akwardly on his shoulder Hopkins could only fight with one arm, and referee Pat Russel put a stop to the fight and awarded Dawson the technical ko. Hopkins' team protested the ruling and was later awarded his belt back.

Bringing fight fans a rematch.

The fight itself resembled MMA at points but that is the kind of fight Hopkins likes. The heavy underdog, hopkins didn't do too much with his hands, aside from a lot clutching and grabbimg. Hopkins head did the most damage. In the fourth, Hopkins ducked some solid punches and as he was swinging back up for a counter shot, Hopkins clashed his head with Dawson's splitting his brow open. The referee immediately signaled it an accidental and the fight continued. 

Hopkins 47 and holding a 52-6-2 record is still a brawler and has still never been knocked out. He now lost his belt, there is no-one else to fight. He should retire but its up to him. Hopkins denied a post fight interview. 

Dawson in his post fight speech, gave respect to Hopkins calling him a future hall of famer but was quick to call him out as a dirty fighter, and suggested the head butt on purpose. Altogether he showed respect but with frustration. Dawson won the fight and it was clear he's happy to never see Hopkins again.

Will the fans see Hopkins again? I am almost sure. It is sad, almost nobody retires anymore.

Dawson was the unanimous decision, landing more punches and controlling the fight. Hopkins landed some shots but wasn't as busy as Dawson. Hopkins elected to clutch and grab and keep Dawson close. 

Veteran referee Eddie Cotton likely got the biggest workout, having to continually duck in and split the fighter from the cluthching and grabbing. 

As I say the fight looked like MMA with boxing gloves. Late in the fight Hopkins appeared to fly tackle Dawson and both fighters ended up on the canvas in the middle of the ring.

The fight was entertaining. The knockout of the night came in the heavyweight bout before. Where the former Michigan State University football lineman is still being considered a raw boxer because he got in to the sport late and has only been boxing professionally for four years but has an impressive 24-0-1, 18 KO's record.

So and so HBO wise guy didn't give much credit to Mitchell. I felt Mitchell earned more respect. It was a nice knockout. Mitchell revealed the heavyweight division is unique in that one good punch can end the fight. Mitchell survived a couple haymakers from Witherspoon early. Mitchell rocked Witherspoon in the third round with a shot on the chin, Witherspoon would get back to his feet but Mitchell woould rock him with a combination sending the fighter to the ropes, the referee Randi Neuman would step in and stop the fight.

Mitchell is now the NABO heavyweight champ. The title was previously vaccant.

Rangers win game seven

New York vs. Ottawa -- I lost five dollars to my father on this one. In my heart I knew the Sens were in tough on the road in New York but being the last Canadian contender I bet with my heart.

Nationally speaking, Sweden was well represented in this game. Daniel Alfredsson, the games third star who  blasted home Ottawa's only goal.

 Henrick Lundqvist was the games first star stopping 26 shots. The youngster Eric Karlsson tried hard but came up short only registering one point all-series. He is still my bet for the Norris trophy.



New York win 2-1

It was a spirited back and forth game in which the Senators threw everything at the Rangers but in the end came up short.

Fast forward to the final five minutes the Senators had many chances but they couldn't get a strong shot. Zac Smith had a chance all alone out front but fanned on the pass that came across the crease.

Ottawa spent a lot of time in the Rangers end but the New York did a great job protecting their net and not letting Ottawa get any quality shots through.

29-27 were the shot in favour of the Rangers who also blocked a lot of Ottawa's chances.

A big problem for Ottawa was turnovers. This led to a lot of odd man breaks and both Rangers goals.

Phillip Kuba had a horrible game for the Senators, who was reckless in his own end turning over the puck in frony of the net  and taking a stupid cross checking penalty there as well.  I would of had Matt Carkner in the line-up instead of him.

Ottawa couldn't hit the net or the broad side of a barn. Many of their chances from the point were off target.

Alfredsson looked like Ottawa's best player and I don't see him retiring.

For the Rangers they had two unlikely goal scorers. Defencemen  Mark Stall and Dan Girardi both got their first goal of the playoffs.

Ottawa vs New York

Ottawa vs New York

Rangers rally and force game 7

Ottawa go up 1-0 early on the power play. Neil and Smith set the screen in front of Lundqvist and Gonchar rips a shot from the point that the Ranger goalie can't see.

The goal is credited to Neil, whom the puck deflected in off his skate.

Neil and Prust square off in a dandy.

Ottawa get undisciplined and a little 4-on-4 before the Rangers go on the PP and tie the game.

Derek Stepan gets his first of the series on the door step and ties the game 1-1

Ottawa newcomer Jakob Silfverberg then takes a roughing call sending the Rangers back on the power play.

Ottawa go down 2 men as Nick Foligno takes a roughing the goalie penalty.

New York score on the 5-on-3 power play. Mike Richards blasts one under Craig Anderson.

A dandy play and a nice save -- the Senators break in with numbers and a beautiful pass across the slot from Foligno to Spezza who sends it back in front of the net for Alfredsson who can't put it over Lundqvist.

Ranger keep rolling, as Chris Kreider scores one with 42 seconds left in the period.

Chris Neil looks like he tries to kick the puck in with 39 seconds to go. They review the goal and the call stands. But it was little too late as the Rangers hang on to win 3-2.

The best move of the game was Brandon Prust fighting Neil. That turned the momentum towards the Rangers and the Sens were rattled.

Game seven is back in New York on Thursday

Crosby and Pens out

Why did I take poor Sidney Crosby with my first pick in the hockey pool?

The guy has barely played any hockey this regular season and when he did come back he got in mixup and was out with another injury. Some pundits suggest he should of just sat out the entire year. Others who I agree with, say he needed to come back sometime, it my as well be now.

The Penguins did very well this regular season without Crosby for the most part. Finishing 4th with 108 points. The Crosby we saw this playoffs was not the best he could be, the fact we noticed him more in the penalty box than in front of the net.

In the post game, Flyers coach Peter Laviolette calls Claude Giroux the best player in the world. (Really going at Crosby, here.) But he is wrong.

Crosby is still the best player in the world, coming back from injury though he wasn't the same. Will Crosby ever be the same is a different question...

The rivalry was awesome. Both coaches Dan Bylsma and Laviolette --their teams included have a genuine hate-on for each other.

Both were spending a lot of time yipping and going after each other, just like the players were after a whistle the whole series.

Balysma said he couldn't wish the Flyers any luck further in the playoffs.

The game has ended and only one team moves on. I love a tournament and hockey is tough and emotional and it maybe one of the best.

Claude Giroux was the best player of the series. He leads the playoffs with 14points, 6g's-8a.

So my chances on winning the hockey pool are low. I took Crosby first pick and it was a big mistake... because the Flyers won and they were better.

NHL PLAYOFFS

Los Angeles vs. Vancouver

The Kings come back and tie things up late in the third and send the game to overtime. Dan Hamhuis is trapped at the blueline and coughs up the puck. Jarret Stoll races in and puts one short side top shelf to knock the Canucks out of the playoffs

Boston vs Washington

Tyler Seguin scores the overtime winner for the Bruins and forces a game seven.

Philly vs Pitt

Claude Giroux snipes 32 seconds into the game, by going short side on Marc-Andre Fleury.

Hartnell dives in the crease and jams the puck into the back of the net for 2 goal lead

Does Fleury need glasses? He lets in a weak wrister by Erik Gustafsson from just inside the blueline and Philly are flying high with a 3-0 lead.

Evgeny Malkin gets the Pens on the board with a powerplay tally. Under 40 seconds later the Flyers get their 3 goal lead back as Daniel Briere puts one in on the doorstep for his fifth of the series.

Malkin is stripped with the empty net by Braydon Schenn who slides one into the empty net and the Flyers win 5-1 and move onto the next round.

NHL, UFC, NLL Lacrosse...lot's of sports!

Its a busy Saturday night in the sports world.

NHL

Chicago beat Phoenix tonight and stay alive

Phoenix and Chicago tied 1-1. They go into overtime and Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews gets the game winner to send the series back to Chicago for game 6.

Phx lead series 3-2

Sens go up 3-2 in their series

The Ottawa Senators have been leading the New York Rangers for most of the game and then Spezza seals it with an empty net goal with under a minute to go.

Sens lead the series at 3-2 and they go back home for game six

Blues beat out the Sharks

St. Louis were up 2-1 and scored an empy netter with under a minute to go. The Blues join Nashville as the only teams to advance from the first round.

Capitals beat Bruins

Braden Holtby holds his own and the Captials defeat the Bruins in a a close one and take a 3-2 series lead.

The action was back an forth and after a scorless first period, Washington score two but Boston rally back with under 3 minutes to play they score back to back goals and tie the game.

Washington outscored Boston 2-1 in the third. Holtby made 31 saves.

Panthers reverse their fate

After loosing 3-0 in game 4, the Panthers take a 3-2 series lead as the shutout New Jersey 3-0.

Suspension - Raffi Torres handed 25 game suspension. The most severe suspension in NHL playoff history.

NLL

Regular season wraps up this weekend with three games on the slate.

The Rochester Kinghthawks take on the Buffalo Bandits --has the Self brothers squaring off. Scott is defensive specialist and leads the the Bandits with 73 looseballs. Brad is a transition threat for the Knighthawks with 23 pts and 71 looseballs in 14 games. --Fans can catch the action on CBS 7:30 PM

The Self's aren't the only Peterborough bro's battling it out tonight.

Shawn Evans's and Calgary take on his older brother Scott with Edmonton. The NLL's version of the "battle of Alberta" tonight. Shawn leads Calgary with 73 points. Older brother Scott has 22 goals in 11 games with Edmonton. -- The game airs on Sportsnet West 10:00 PM

UFC

Jon Jones vs Rashad Evans (Main Event)

Jon "Bones" Jones defended his UFC light-heavyweight title vs. former champ Rashad Evans. Jones delivered more blows and some lunging elbows that set the tone of the fight and Evans goes the distance but couldn't do anything but dodge and swing at the bigger Jones, who defends his belt for the fourth time and remains the undisputed champ.

Rory MacDonald vs Che Mills - (co Main-Event)

Alternate headline - "MacDonald mauls Mills and gets the TKO".

What a bright future the Canadian welterweight has ahead of him. He takes Mills down on the ground early, where he controlled the fight.

MacDonald drilled Mills with some punches from a side triangle. Mills was cut bad and had big goose egg under his right eye.

MacDonald gets the easy tko early in the 2nd round

Michael McDonald vs Miguel Torres

McDonald is the 2nd youngest fighters in the UFC and he is one of the best up and comers in the game.

McDonald scores the KO with an upper cut, Torres didn't know what hit him.

Ben Rothwell vs Brendan Schaub

Schuab lands a strong elbow but Rothwell counters from the cage and KO's Schaub with a left hook.

Schaub wanted a toe-to-toe fight and Schaub looks reckless in having it out that way.

Mark Hominick vs Eddie Yagin

Hominick has a a tough first 2 rounds. He gets rocked by a couple Yagin haymakers. Hominick is coming off a tough loss where he got tko'ed by in just seven seconds.

Hominick shows heart and keeps the fight going. He tags Yagin over and over again with sharp jabs, doing some major damage late in the fight. Yagin's face is a bloody mess. But the attack from Hominick was too late, the judges had scored the first two rounds in favour of Yagin.

Hominick neeglected any opportunity to attack the torso of Yagin with kicks instead sticking to the jab.

The fight goes to the cards and Yagin with the decision.

The judges favour Yagin with the split decision

Mark Bocek vs John Alessi

Bocek the Canadian gets a unanimous decision

Prelims are on FOX TV

The fight of the night so far is:

Matt Brown vs Stephen Thompson.

At different points both fighters look like they have the fight won.

Thompson lands some good strikes and kicks late in the 2nd round but Brown was able to fend off the attack.

Thompson couldn't defend the take down.

Brown gets the ground and pound going and does some brutal damage. Cutting Thompson on the brow with an elbow.

With 30 seconds to go Brown again with the ground and pound, gets Thompson locked into a lateral triangle hold leaving Brown with an free arm to drill Thompson's face.

Thompson eats punches as the clock runs out and this one goes the distance. Both fighters were exhausted.

Brown with the unanimous decision.

Heavyweight fight featuring up-and-comer Tavis Browne

Travis Browne and Griggs.

Browne lands a flying knee and gets his man on the ground. The fight is over quick, Browne slips on a arm-triangle and puts Griggs to sleep with a choke hold.