RIPTIDES LOSE CHAMPIONSHIP, 5-2

Despite a blatant attempt to injure a Riptides player and constant taunting from rude hecklers in the stands, the Riptides put up a valiant, sportsmanlike effort against the Ducks in the championship game, Sunday afternoon.

The Ducks scored two goals early to jump out to a 2-0 lead.

Derek Hayden (#11) scored to cut the lead to one, however the Ducks answered to take a 3-1 lead into intermission.

The Tide again cut the lead to one nearing the midpoint of the second period on a goal from Dave Balamucki (#25), but a Ducks goal at 9:35 increased the lead to 4-2.

The Riptides pulled goaltender Jon Graney (#21) late for the extra attacker. However an empty-netter by the Ducks sealed the 5-2 victory.

The Riptides finish the season proud, with an amazing run up to and through the playoffs.

The Tide is now off for the summer season, but returns to action in the fall. Stay tuned for fall season updates.

Have a great summer.