On the heels of a dramatic finish to Game 4 on Friday, the New Westminster Salmonbellies and Victoria Shamrocks' championship series has reached the point of The Final Countdown.
Behind Logan Schuss' overtime goal and another stellar performance by netminder Alexis Buque, the visiting 'Bellies knocked off the Shamrocks 9-8 on Friday to take a commanding 3-1 series lead in the Western Lacrosse Association final.
That puts Europe's song, a staple on every rink playlist, up next as New West prepares to capture its first league crown since 2010. It also puts Queen's ode to victory closer to 'play.' However, the cornered 'Rocks will attempt to extend both songs' stay at the top of the charts for a few more games.
The two songs could be blaring from the loud speakers on Sunday at Queen's Park, when Game 6 of the best-of-seven series hits the floor. Game time is 6 p.m.
Schuss' goal at 6:24 of the 10-minute overtime session proved to be the only tally of the frame, as the 'Bellies defence and Buque held Victoria in check.
The Shamrocks had tied the game, overcoming an 8-4 deficit in the process, with four markers in the third period and ending with Rhys Duch's goal with 19 seconds left in the third. Victoria had pulled the goalie to give them five runners on the floor during a shorthanded situation.
New West had taken an 8-4 lead with seven goals in the middle period, after Victoria had opened the game with a 3-0 run.
Buque kicked out 47 shots, including all seven in overtime, while Aaron Bold turned aside 39 New West shots.
Kevin Crowley scored three times and set up three others, while Joel McCready chipped in a pair. Also scoring for the 'Bellies were Zach Herreweyers, Justin Goodwin and Mitch Jones, who also counted four assists.
Victoria, who were without Steve Priolo, who was serving a one-game suspension after receiving a late misconduct in Game 3, got a hat trick from Duch.
The series continues Sunday at Queen's Park. If Game 6 is needed, it would be played Tuesday in Victoria. A seventh game, if necessary, would go Sept. 1 in New West. All games start at 6 p.m.
