by Peter Ferak, www.coverguy.wordpress.com
European Cup hopeful MGPU took three from arch-rivals Tornado Balashikha last week. And for the first time since 2003 there’s a new scent in the Moscow air. Tornado could be overtaken this year in their campaign to once again defend the title of Russian Champions.
In a way Tornado Balashikha are playing with house money. They are developing their young talents in a second team Patrioty, and even if Tornado fails to defend their crown they put together a remarkable run in the past years.
Developing talent is a slow process and so far Patrioty is having a tough time in the first league. Moskvich left no doubt during their matchup with the young Patriots, taking 4 of 4. This improves their record to 8-4 and strengthens their position at the top of the League.
Over the next two weeks the three non-Cup teams will square off. First Patrioty Balashikha and Severne Zvezdy, and a week later a rematch between Patrioty and Moskvich.
Results:
Thursday, June 5 2008
Tornado Balashikha – MGPU 1-5
Moskvich – Patrioty Balashikha 13-6
Friday, June 6 2008
Tornado Balashikha – MGPU 10-7
Moskvich – Patrioty Balashikha 22-5
Saturday, June 7 2008
Tornado Balashikha – MGPU 5-7
Moskvich – Patrioty Balashikha 15-9
Sunday, June 8 2008
Tornado Balashikha – MGPU 3-7
Moskvich – Patrioty Balashikha 17-2