Oro vs. Collingwood: 3-0, ORO
Sorry, hockey fans, for the slow articles over the past
week! Crazy schedules and holiday
preparations have slowed me down.
The Thunder were on the road last Saturday to face the
Blackhawks at the Eddie Bush arena – this coach’s favourite barn! The Blackhawks provided a stern test the last
time we faced them and we expected nothing less today.
The opening periods of recent games have not been a strong suit for us. Collingwood controlled the play for the first 5 minutes. Jensen’s athletic skills were on full display making key saves and holding his team in the game and frustrating Blackhawk shooters.
Mid-way through the first on an injury time-out the team gathered for a quick chat. Much to this coach’s surprise the players took control of the meeting and challenged each other to play better. The coaches were very impressed with the show of leadership by the players.
As the first ended scoreless the coaches and players were much happier with the final 5 minutes of the period and we seemed to be gaining momentum.
Early in the second Caden and Owen played catch on a beautiful give-and-go play deep in the Collingwood end. With Caden’s slick moves and agile feet he evaded his check and sent a laser beam to the top shelf.
The solid play continued for the Thunder only to have scoring chances thwarted by a strong Collingwood goalie.
Mid-way through the second a great 3 way passing play was started by Logan who made a great D-D pass to his partner Nick. Nicky, showing poise and patience, found a seam and fed Jack streaking down the right boards. With soft hands and a quick touch, Jack sent Devin in towards the Collingwood tender. A quick shoulder fake pulled the goalie out of position and Devin wristed home the second marker of the game. Great puck movement, guys!
As the final seconds ticked away on a dominant Thunder period, Taylor took control of the puck below the goal line. Using his strength and speed, Taylor found Jack out front. Jack was able to get a quick shot off that found its way through several sets of legs and past a helpless goalie. This would be the final goal of the game but not the end of the overall great team effort!
Strong efforts were put forth by all players this game. Sam and Noal controlled the boards time and time again. Their amazing efforts frustrated Collingwood defencemen all game. Owen and Wesley teamed up as they always do to shut down any Collingwood scoring chances and provided an impenetrable wall around Jensen. Our other dynamic duo on the backend, Logan and Nick, smothered and suffocated Collingwood rushes at every opportunity. They quickly moved pucks to speedy forwards!
A great effort today, guys. Let’s keep the momentum going as we face our arch rival from Midland on Friday night!