The following information was provided by the Watertown Department of Recreation:

Direct Tire and Auto put on a clinic in game three of the Papas Elite Final to soundly defeat the undermanned defending champion Made Men the score of 89-58. The 2012 Papas Elite Champions outplayed Made Men at every facet of the game, and did not let up on the gas throughout the entire game.

A classic team effort epitomized this championship run and specifically this game as all nine players scored, five of them in double figures. Dave Gratton enjoyed a banner night, tossing in 23 points, while Zack Ray and General Manager-Player Coach Mark Giovino shared the spotlight with 15 points apiece, Giovino on five three pointers. It should be noted the GM Giovino did not play in game two to allow a tighter rotation of substitutions, which resulted in an impressive game two to tie the series 1-1 at that time.

A disappointing night and end of season for the defending Made Men as injuries before and during the game diminished their ability to complete at a high level. As usual Lew Finnegan was game high with 26 points but it wasn’t nearly enough to close the gap.

Direct Tire and Auto will proudly wear their 2012 Papas Elite Championship Fleece, display their trophy and belt. Congratulations and thanks to all.

Johnson Club Nips Control Club at Wire in Game 1 of Legends Finals

Game 1 of the O’Brien Legends series was by far the best game of the night. Filled with outstanding play, relentless competitiveness and a controversial finish, this was a game for the ages. The game was tight throughout as the Johnson Club held onto a narrow 33-32 half time lead. The second half included more of the same, as both teams had slim leads throughout.

With 5 seconds left and the score tied, Control Club star player Steve O’Donnell, who tossed is a game and career high 36 points, pulled a Chris Webber and called a time out when there was no times outs left in the bank. After some heated discussion, the officials gathered and a technical foul was called and two shots were awarded. Rob Sarmiento calmly swished in two free throws and the series lead went to the Johnson Club.

Marcus D’Angelis played his best game of the year, ending the game with 21 points while teammates Craig Keefe and Johnson Griffin pitched in with 17 and 14 points respectively. For Control, O’Donnell was a monster in the paint and was assisted by Rob Kulch 11 points and Drew Zacek 10 points.

Game 2 of the O’Brien Finals will be Tuesday, Aug. 21 at 7 p.m.