CRUNCH DEFEATS CINCINNATI 15-8, CLINCHES PLAYOFF SPOT

Cleveland, Ohio - The Cleveland Crunch defeated the Cincinnati Swerve for its last game of the regular season, clinching a spot in the Major League Indoor Soccer playoffs. Both teams played great offense and defense, forcing a tough battle between the two Ohio teams. The first quarter ended in a 2-2 tie. Crunch goals were scored by midfielders Tom Beck and Aidan Bozak.

Both teams scored back-to-back goals in the second. Forwards Ryan Minick and Gabriel Pewu both scored their first of the game, and Beck scored his second. The Crunch went into halftime leading 5-4. 

The Crunch came out dominating in the third. Team Captain and Defender Dave Jordan scored two goals and Minick and Pewu both scored their second. Midfielder Admir Suljevic scored two goals and Bozak scored his second of the game. Beck and Pewu each completed a hat trick before the third quarter ended, going into the Final quarter with the Crunch leading 14-6.

Mikey Derezic scored early into the fourth, keeping the momentum going. Goalkeeper Marijo Musa played excellent defense to hold off the Swerve, ending the game with a final score of 15-8. 

Suljevic earned the MetroHealth 'Man on the Match' honor for his stellar performance of three goals and two assists. 

The Crunch will host the Chicago Mustangs at the Soccer Sportsplex in North Olmsted at 8:00 p.m. ET next Saturday for its first playoff game. Tickets will be on sale soon.