2008

Once again, it came to the last two games to determine playoff positions and home field advantage. Newbies, Mike & Adam went through the typical expansion struggles and the gracious host, Eric, was much more inspired by home field advantage, challenging the favorites deep into the second half. Unlucky Rob, looked poised to get Lebanon into the playoffs for the first time in history as well as build on Biscotti's two previous playoff experiences. Unfortunately, it came down to Rob's inability to get one win against either Al, Nick, or V. Babylon and Assyria proved to be stingy defensively and made the playoffs. However, their inconsistent OH-fence left Al scratching his head, waiting for another chance in 2009. Babylon seemed poised to make the Cup Final but Bishop's Peak had a date with destiny. V and Nick had both teams make the playoffs. Brighton AFC stunned the defending Champs in the Opening game but once again could not win in the playoffs, getting thumped by Bishop's Peak. For the first time since 2004, San Luis City and San Luis United rekindled their cross-town rivalry in one of the semi-finals. United prevailed at home 3-1 to set-up a familiar Cup Final.

Once again, for the 4th time in SCL history, the final pitted bitter rivals, San Luis United (V) 5W-1D-0L vs. Bishop's Peak (Nick) 6W-0D-1L (Only loss to SLU). Heading into this match-up, both teams stake claim to being the best team in the SCL competition. Both teams had 2 titles and while BP had a dominating stretch in the mid-90's, SLU has been in more Cup finals than any team and post the most wins by any team in League history.

In an open first half that saw many chances, SLU was clinging to a 2-1 lead. With seconds remaining, SLU's veteran goalkeeper, Clearance MiCrease made a late challenge in which the refs issued a penalty. BP lined up for what appeared to be a sure equalizer when Clearance redeemed himself with a spectacular save to preserve the lead into half-time. Shortly after the start of the second half, Bishop's Peak stepped into another gear and pelted the SLU net. MiCrease continued his stellar goaltending putting a nice strand of saves together. Ultimately, Bishop's Peak would not be denied and finally got the equalizer with about 7 minutes remaining. United responded quickly however, and in the 19th minute, recaptured the lead at 3-2. Once again the Peak found themselves driving to the net, sending players in the offensive attack. With approximately 30 seconds away from an apparent 3rd title for SLU, Bishop's Peak connected on a goal in the goal box, despite good defensive positioning, and equalized again- sending the game to extra time.

In overtime, SLU once again, struck first netting the go-ahead goal for a 4-3 scoreline. Fortunate that Golden goal no longer exists, Bishop's Peak again assured a short celebration for the home team by leveling the game at 4-4. After the first break with teams changing sides, Bishop's Peak finally broke ahead for the first time in the match to take a 5-4 lead with 1 minute remaining. SLU now found themselves trailing for the first time all game. However with a last gasp corner kick, SLU decided to take a risk and set-up for the midfield strike. With a good first touch, SLU found themselves in a high scoring position and belted a shot off a Bishop's Peak defender for an amazing goal with no time left on the clock....5-5 heading into penalties....Pandemonium broke out at Frank Holt field as manager V was jubilant, taking his shirt off (which there are pictures of the goal and celebration to be posted later on the web).

The amazing game was then forced to penalties in which SLU looked to be headed for the Cup leading 1-0 after the first round with all the momentum. However, Bishop's Peak leveled terms after round 2 and then each team scored on their 3rd shot. Heading into sudden death shootout, SLU found themselves down by a goal needing to score to survive. However, SLU's African goal scorer, Send'ete N'Dabackovdeenit, hesitated and sent a weak roller easily saved by BP's keeper, Noah Wayin.

Bishop Peak wins in penalties to capture their SCL record 3rd Cup title. SLU is left to rue the fact they become the first team in history to finish unbeaten without hoisting a title. A game in which both teams put up an offensive display and showed grit when the chips were down. A well played final.