It was a solid bounce back performance overall by the Kindersley Klippers after falling 7-1 in their previous contest, but also a performance that likely left the Klippers wanting more. They battled back in the third frame scoring two goals, one by Ryan Elliot and the other by Justin Lund who scored his 1st career SJHL marker. For a 17 year old kid to score a big goal like that just shows how much hes progressing in an impressive fashion.
With the way the 3rd period went, you would think Kindersley would have the momentum in the extra frame. Both teams traded chances back and forth but at the 3:53 mark, the Klippers had a defensive zone breakdown and were unable to clear the zone. The puck somehow found its way on to the stick of Lucas Froese who was left wide open in front making no mistake to finish off the Klippers. A tough break for Kindersley who likely deserved a better fate for the way they played in the 3rd period. Although they likely wouldn't have been down 3-1 if they had played a full previous forty minutes of hockey. For the Klippers to win moving forward they will need to find a consistent sixty minute effort.
There once again were some positives for the Klippers, one being Justin Lund who continues to do the little things right. He is a guy that buys in to watch the coach is saying, works hard, and is starting to generate offense now having tallied 5 points in the early going of the season.
Another positive for Kindersley was their two new players who debuted. Kyle Davies up front was generating offense all night. I thought he was the best Klipper player on the ice overall. He is quick, works hard, and really can be shifty down low on the cycle which generated a number of high quality scoring chances for Kindersley. In terms of Kade Halabuza, I thought he played a sound defensive game for the most part last night. Rockie Zinger mentioned in the post game interview that he didn't notice Halabuza very much which was a good thing for a stay at home dman. It looks like both of these two recruits will fit right in moving forward.
Any time you have a chance to get 2 points and skate away with only one it can be seen as a disappointment, but like I mentioned the young team took strides last night which will hopefully carry over into the showcase this weekend. Kindersley was also once again without Taylor Duzan last night and Tanner Kissick who was serving his one game suspension for his two fights against Humboldt.
In terms of the new Melville rink, it certainly is a thing of beauty. Great facility expect for the broadcast booth. It's really small and only has room for the home teams camera crew. Hopefully they can set up a better long term solution to facilitate both teams.
3 Stars
1. Mark Owen
2. Justin Lund
3. Lucas Froese
Klippers Hitter of the game: Taylor Wasden
Klippers Hustler of the game: Kyle Davies
Rockie zinger OT loss by Ullsy
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