Tensions were high after a flak-filled runup, but the Autumn Cup once again ushered in the beginning of the end with force. A fine complement of nine fathers proved up to the challenge. The first match saw Statty eke by SA in a well-played, tight contest. Trader Vic surprised Bezzo next, followed by the Chairman continuing his unbeaten streak, using a game-ending, 8-point bloodbath to finish off Kong. The Adjuster edged Zulu in the play-in game, but fell in the next contest to the formidable Dub-Dub. Statty then used his ninth hanger of 2012 in a comeback win against Vic to reach the final for the third year running. Dub-Dub then summarily disposed of the Chairman (his first singles loss of the year), throwing a hanger in or good measure. The final was a back and forth affair that fittingly came down to the last two pucks. With the scored locked at 13, Statty’s weight rolled neatly around a block to remove Dub-Dub’s potential game-winner. Dub-Dub, faced with a similar shot, was up to the task, rolling the last puck in, removing Statty’s weight, and claiming the cup. In doing so, Dub-Dub became the first father to have won the career Thirsty Trifecta: The Hammer, the Coppa di Primavera, and the Coppa di Autunno. Holman’s served as the after bar, with late night food and a Leech appearance being the highlight. SA leaving early and leaving Statty’s bike perilously unlocked was the lowlight, despite the lack of thieves. Great night. Tense times. Summer is gone, cooler rides beckon, and the race for the 2012 Hammer awaits to ratchet up the tension again. – Statty

Bars: Sandy Hut, Holman’s
Fathers: SA, Statty, Adjuster, Dubs, Chairman, Bezzo, Trader Vic, Zulu, Kong, Leech