CLEVELAND’S WINNING WAYS HALTED IN OVERTIME THRILLER AGAINST TORONTO

In a dramatic showdown at the Soccer Sportsplex, the Cleveland Crunch suffered their first home loss in nearly two years, falling 8-7 to the Canadian Crusaders (Toronto) in a penalty shootout (3-2). The heartbreaking defeat snaps an 11-game home winning streak that had stood since February 25, 2023, and marks just the second home loss for Cleveland since the team’s return in 2020. The Crunch still boast an impressive 25-2 home record, including regular season and playoff action.

Cleveland started strong, with Michael Derezic opening the scoring in the first period off an assist from David Jordan. The teams traded blows in the second period, with Parker Csiszar and Ryan Minick each adding to Cleveland’s lead. Derezic struck again later in the period, helping the Crunch maintain a 4-2 advantage at halftime.

The back-and-forth battle continued in the second half. Aidan Bozak and Omar Najjar extended Cleveland’s lead in the third, and Derezic completed his hat trick in the fourth period with a penalty kick to put the Crunch up 7-4. However, Toronto stormed back, scoring three unanswered goals, including a dramatic equalizer from Sebastián López with just three seconds remaining to force overtime. In the ensuing penalty shootout, Toronto edged Cleveland 3-2, to seal the win. 

Cleveland played the match without 2024 MLIS MVP Admir Suljevic, who is listed day-to-day with a groin injury. Suljevic has been a dominant force this season, tallying 14 goals and 9 assists (23 points) through just four games. The team also had to adjust after losing top defender Boban Cancar to an ankle injury in the second half.

The Crunch will look to bounce back as they travel to Toronto for a highly anticipated rematch with the Crusaders on Saturday, February 8.

For more information on the Cleveland Crunch and upcoming games, visit theclevelandcrunch.com.