Jokers struggle in loss to Elephantitus

In a potential championship preview, the Jokers lost 4-1 to Elephantitus on Saturday.

The last time these two teams faced each other, the Jokers prevailed, overcoming injuries and having only one bench player. Goalie Tim Fisher stymied the offense leaving players on both sides shaking their heads. This time though, the Jokers offense struggled to find a rhythm. Shots came in bunches and second chances couldn’t be cashed in. Chris McMullen filled in admirably for Fisher, stopping 29 of 32 tough shots and the defense did their best to contain Elephantitus’ eager offense.

There was a little excitement to start the third period with the Jokers trailing 3-0, center Frank Melillo poked at a loose ball which the opposing goalie took exception to. Players from both teams came in shoving and six minor penalties were assessed. Later in the period, winger Josh Berrelli put his team on the board making the score 3-1. Seconds later, with a faceoff deep in the Elephantitus zone, the Jokers took their only timeout and pulled McMullen in a last ditch effort to tie the game. Despite the extra attacker though, Elephantitus would tack on an empty-net goal and seal the win. The teams are now separated by a mere two points with two games left in each of their seasons.