In their second per-season tournament in as many weekends, the Hamilton Huskies took the long but scenic country drive to Peterborough to face a minimum of four opponents in a competition where only four of fifteen teams would see the chance to continue beyond.
The Huskies hit the ice with promising momentum against their first opponent, but the Quinte Devils, whose net-minding was almost flawless, opened the scoring in the first period and challenged Hamilton's persistence throughout three periods. It was only in the final minutes of the game that Hamilton recorded a goal of their own, leaving both teams with an even start to the tournament.
In the afternoon's match-up against Halton, a fast-paced and aggressive game saw players battle for pucks but also for their pride as they took on their previous weekend's rivals. Though plagued by penalties, limited opportunities and fallen teammates from a chippy game, the Huskies never gave up, but nonetheless were unable to break through, succumbing to a point-free game.
With the dawn of a new morning came what felt to most a renewed energy and desire to win as the Huskies challenged Central Ontario on day two of the tournament. Constant pressure in the attack zone, a solid defense, jaw-dropping slap shots and nifty stick-handling were but a few of the assets that contributed to Hamilton's performance, limiting shots on their keeper and whose head's up hockey led to increased chances that peppered the back of the Wolves' net toward their first victory.
Division leaders Barrie proved to be a worthy opponent in the second game of the day as Hamilton trailed at one point by as many as a handful of goals, but the Huskies' determination was never in doubt this weekend as they ended with two shorthanded goals that rocked the Colts and robbed them of a desirable bonus point in the overall standings.
While it was in game 3 that the Huskies' performance may have appeared most successful if measured in goals, it is thanks to their constant desire to succeed and their ability to regroup and perform under pressure as a TEAM that players and fans alike concluded another great weekend of hockey.
What was set to be the toughest division in the tournament from which eventually surfaced both finalist and champions, the Huskies showed heart and passion and did not disappoint. And while a looming NHL lockout concerns many about Canada's game, fans of all ages continue to enjoy watching what only minor hockey can bring - exciting games, great atmosphere, and most importantly memorable and bonding moments from away tournaments. There is now a fresh feeling of excitement in the air as Hamilton next hosts their season-opener September 22nd at Chedoke Arena, while the organization re-launches the HUSKIES name from 22 years ago as it was originally founded in 1971!
Hamilton Huskies 1 Quinte Devils 1
Halton Hurricanes 3 Hamilton Huskies 0
Hamilton Huskies 9 Central Ontario Wolves 0
Barrie Colts 5 Hamilton Huskies 2
No comments:
Post a Comment