Aces Reconfigure

Local ice hockey team the Black Aces seem to have found the key to success in their most recent contest, defeating a frustrated Warriors squad 4-1 in what fans (departing COTHL early-gamers and someone known only as Zamboni Boy) later described as ‘a hockey game’.

How did the Aces pull off a win? They reconfigured. Team Strategist and Evil Mastermind Rich W had the Blackshirts playing a 1-2-2 configuration all game. For the ignorant, a 1-2-2 means one guy on the forecheck, then 2 guys a little farther out waiting to cut off an outlet pass, backed up by 2 more guys in behind. It worked a treat, as the Warriors were unable to get anything going. 

Past Aces configurations were less successful so it’s good news that the team has finally figured things out. Some of the Aces’ previous less successful alignments: 

The 5-0-0

All players rush the offensive zone, allowing the opposing team to lift a pass over everyone’s heads, usually leading to a 3 on 0 breakaway.

The 3-2-0 

All forwards converge behind the enemy net to discuss ski conditions and post-game beer selection. This usually leads to a 3 on 2 for the opposing team.

The 2-2-2

Too many men on the ice. Immediately followed by the 2-2-0. 

The 1-3-1

A terrible line change. 

The 4-20

All players are way too high to be effective, with predictable results. 

The 8675309

Zamboni Girl’s phone number, it’s rumoured. Nothing to do with hockey at all.

The 6.0221415 × 10^23

Overly complicated lineup devised by Amadeo Avagadro, the Aces first coach back in 1838. Back then the team was known as the Black Moles, and didn’t win a game all year.

The 3.14159

All players skate in circles. Popular but not too effective.

Let’s hope the team can configure some more wins this year. 

Goal scorers:  2 for Pete S, one each for Al and sometime D-man Joe 2N.