September 18 vs. Stratford
After a busy pre-season that included exhibition
games against Kitchener and Cambridge and a great day of team building, the
AA/A Minor Bantam Wolves were poised for their home opener against the
Stratford Warriors on Sunday, September 18, 2016.
A delayed start for some ice repairs added to the anticipation of the fans who were excited to get going. The boys were greeted with cheers as they took the ice.
The first period saw the Wolves on the power play twice, but unable to capitalize. As the period progressed, the team looked more confident and was spending more time in the offensive zone. The Wolves tried hard to generate some action on the power play and a big shot by the Defense from the point forced the Stratford goalie to make a quick glove save.
The second period opened scoreless and at even strength. The Wolves began to throw their weight around more, improving their checking with each shift. The Wolves’ goaltender made some tremendous saves early in the second to keep the boys in it, but the Warriors took advantage of a power play at 10:02 to make it 1-0. A mere thirty seconds later, the Wolves replied with a gorgeous goal after showing great patience to tuck the puck in. Some other big chances included a rocket shot from the point and an almost-there cross-crease pass.
Things started to get a little more physical in the third. The Wolves created some great offensive pressure, including an impressive stretch and reach by the D to keep the puck in the Stratford end. The Wolves went on the penalty kill with just under 6 minutes to go and Stratford used this chance to make it 2-1. Soon after, the Warriors struck again and it was 3-1 at 4:24.
After a brief time out, the Wolves came out flying, fast and furious! A great goal closed the gap to 3-2 with time running out on the clock. Stratford worked hard in the final minute of the game to keep the puck out of their end, preventing the Wolves from getting that one last chance. The final score was 3-2. It definitely wasn’t the result they wanted, but the Wolves finished strong and look ready to keep that momentum going.
Special shout out and huge thank you to the amazing tailgate team who provided an incredible feast for the players, coaches, and families!