Oro vs. Penetang: 11-1, Oro
Sunday afternoon had the Thunder visiting the Flames for our
final match-up of the regular season.
After Saturday’s strong performance in Haliburton, the coaches were hoping
the momentum and strong play would continue.
The boys delivered with an all-out offensive assault, reminiscent from
earlier in the season.
The Thunder started their attack by notching two in the first, five in the middle frame and finished with four in the final period. All coaches are happy to see offensive production like this but even more important was the consistent effort put forth by all players on the forecheck and backcheck. As we have discussed all season long, successful teams are the ones that play at both ends of the rink. When reflecting back on the game this coach was most pleased with the increased puck movement. This was evident on the game sheet as most goals had primary and secondary assists.
The only goal I would like to highlight today was scored by Taylor! With half the arena filled with his family and friends, Taylor and I had a good pre-game chat. I asked Taylor to play exactly as he had on Saturday as it may have been his best performance of the season. Sometimes with so much support in the crowd, it makes players change the way they play. Today was not that day. Taylor, you were a leader all day long with your strong and powerful skating stride. You consistently beat defenders to loose pucks and created chances for teammates which led to a 3 assist afternoon. Late in the first you powered your way to the front of the net like an NHL Power Forward, only to be foiled by a great save.
Midway through the second period Taylor once again was in his “office” in front of the net. As quickly as the black disc hit his stick, it was released with such velocity and accuracy that the Penetang goalie had no chance as it whizzed by his shoulder and into the roof of the net. As the red light came on signalling a goal, the Penetang Memorial Gardens erupted, raising the roof at least 2 inches. As Taylor returned to the bench smiling ear to ear, I didn’t think I would ever see a bigger smile,... but I was wrong. As I looked into the crowd, Taylor’s grandfather was beaming with joy and gave me the thumbs up. This is a memory this coach will always remember. Taylor...keep up the great work! I have a feeling great things are ahead for you!
Prior to the game I had the opportunity to have a chat with the Penetang coach. I didn’t realize his team was playing with a staggering 8 underage kids in the line-up. I have been impressed all season long with how hard his team has worked and competed...a compliment to the players, but also to the coaching staff. I have a feeling this will be a dominant team come next season!
As our regular season concludes on Saturday with a visit by Parry Sound, boys, please remember we must raise our “compete level” and bring a consistent effort every shift if we hope to have a successful 2nd half.