What’s up Metro league? How was your summer? Mine was great but it’s over. Let’s not talk about it. I bet many of you were thinking that I wasn’t going to get this up in time, but look, it’s only Tuesday and already you are enjoying thoughtful picks and amazing commentary.
I just got the schedule uploaded last night, so let’s have a look:
- Dubois v Rohde: A classic matchup, both teams finished in the top half last year. I know that members of the Dubois rink have been spotted at the club working on their game but this time it’s what you don’t see that may swing the match. There are reports that the Rohde bunch has a secret lair where they’ve been practicing all summer. Watch out Dubois, Rohde by one.
- McLaughlin v Hoven: Hoven retooled and had a great season last year moving from 17th place in 2011 to a solid 10th in 2012 and McLaughlin did pretty well too. Based on their history though, I’m going to give the edge to the age. Hoven starts 1 and 0.
- Anderson v Boomer: Since Beranek has morphed, Boomer now claims top spot as the best dressed in the Metro league and that’s good, because the “best rink” title still eludes them. This will be a great match to watch as both of these rinks are fun to play and they rarely drop their brooms. Anderson actually looked like they were trying in practice so I think they’ll squeak this one out by 4 or 5.
- Moll v Lockwood: Rumor has it that Moll is the phoenix that emerged from Beranek’s ashes, if so, they should be able to hold their own with the new crew. Lockwood on the other hand have been bringing the same old tired line up to Wednesday nights year after year with little improvement. A lot of people are talking about them, and it isn’t always nice. However, they did show up for some practice and it will probably take Moll a few weeks to find their balance, so Lockwood can have this one.
- Crotty v McGovern: Let’s not talk about that five game losing streak that McGovern started last season with. Let’s talk about how there must be something awesome about the McGovern rink because thehogline.com always picks them to win. Weird. Anyhow, Crotty is a total darkhorse. Are they the remnants of another team, totally new, Olympic scouts sent to check out McGovern’s dominance? We may never know, but I say “Welcome” to the Crotty rink. McGovern will try hard to lose this, but a miracle in the 7th will seal the deal.
- Jansen v Long: Another unknown. We do know that Jansen means business so don’t look for any pregame pleasantries. I think Long can hang with them for a few ends though, but the persistence of Jansen will prevail.
- McLellan v Sonnabend: There has been a fair amount of trash talking coming from the Sonnabend rink which is dangerous in an election year. McLellan made some nice strides last year and now face last season’s champs on opening night. Look for Sonnabend to mix it up. I’d like to give McLellan some advice on losing to Sonnabend, but I’ve never experienced it, so I’m kind of at a loss.
- Lawrence v Lichty: Two Metro league originals go at it over on sheet 8. I predict it will be the loudest and most profane sheet out there, but in a good way. Lichty knows how to rile up an opponent so expect early turmoil followed by an eighth end stunner. This one is a tossup, but I’ll go with Lichty because of their marathon practice session earlier this month.
Congratulations to Sonnabend for winning another year.