The Blizzard played a strong team game, everyone contributed and after killing off a SEVEN minute long penalty courtesy of Bradley Swampy OCN exploded for three goals in the second period and a fourth goal in the third period.
Garick Gray had another strong game with a hat-trick and an assist. He now has 11 points in his last eight games and is tied for the league goal scoring lead with 12 goals.
Wilson Dumais had his best game in an OCN jersey, he played smart and physical but didn't chase or make hits behind the play, didn't run people and didn't run his mouth at the ref. He's a dominating force when he plays like he did tonight, it took three Neepawa players to knock him off the puck, opens up tons of space on the ice.
Ralph Cochrane had another strong game, again as always. The usual characters were themselves.
Dusik played good two way hockey, Cameron was strong on the forecheck.
Petrino, Sharp and Bayer created opportunities offensively and were solid defensively.
McDonald was perfect for the fourth time this season.
It was a great game, the fans were fantastic. Big props to the dancing man in section D.
Cory Koop kept Neepawa in it for the first 20, but couldn't stop the onslaught from OCN's offensive.
Pitre Tire Three Stars:
1. Garick Gray (3G, 1A)
2. Wilson Dumais (1G, 2A)
3. Justin McDonald (16/16 saves - shutout)
Honourable Mention:
Cory Koop (43/47 saves)
Northern Building Supply Hardest Working Player:
Ralph Cochrane.
The Blizzard head to Virden on Tuesday for the first of three straight games against the Oil Capitals.
Tuesday's game will be broadcast.
Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
-Brad-
It might be hard to split Garrick and Wilson up after this game. Maybe TJ and Grove will work well together once Grove gets back. Derek still needs to get a top three guy up front though.
ReplyDeleteI think as long as Wilson plays his game he can play with anyone, same with Garrick, but they were very impressive. It was a strong line, all three can play the boards, Dumais draws in two players at a time opening up space for Valiquette and Gray. I'm sure TJ and Grove wouldn't have a problem playing together. And yes Derek is still trying to make a move for another top six guy.
DeleteBrad anything new on a deal to bring a player in from out of province or has that deal not going to happen. But congrats to the boys playing a good last nite, they didn't missed a beat once the puck was dropped. Good job OCN keep playing that type of hockey. And for Swampy taking 17 mins in penalties was he the only one fighting and did he get a bad call. It seems the ref always see the second infraction and never call the first infraction even if they see it.
ReplyDeleteAs for a new deal, Fontaine is still working to pull something off for a top six forward, but again when one is confirmed I will let you all know.
DeleteBrad was definetly ripped off. Warkentin punched him with his glove still on and kept at him until Brad fought back and Warkentin turtled and ended up with no penalty. Swampy kept his cool for about 20 seconds as Warkentin was chopping him, good game Swampy.
DeleteSwampy should have received an elbowing call on the initial hit. Had that happened the whole situation would have been avoided. But the way the penalties ended up shaking down was ridiculous.
DeleteBrad i see Blizzard prospect Lodie Ipeelie is having a great year in Thompson along with Brendan Barron. Do you know if anyone from the Blizzard orginization is keeping in touch with them and showing a little interest unlike the previous staff. I know Barron was in Flin Flon and Ipeelie wasn't at Blizzard fall camp. Maybe you could interview these guys for your Monday night sports show in the future and find out their plans.
ReplyDeleteLodie certainly is off to a hot start to the season. He really turned things on in the last quarter of the season last year. He has a tremendous release and great speed. Barron is a great all-around player as well. I'm actually going up to Thompson the weekend of the 17th and I'll be at the Northstars game, my plan was to speak to both of them.
DeleteFun game to watch. Koope kept the score down for Neeps. Love watching Cochrane on the back, simple good plays and never worry about things when he's on the ice. He is a good one to have on our PP and Pks too, way to go Ralph. Bayer is really coming along great, no fear and always grinding and fighting for the puck. Nice to see Garick get rewarded for all his hard play and Grant, well for a small guy he plays so big. Dumais held back a few times from taking penalties, especially when the goalie hit him, good job Wilson. Although the Natives are a last place teamit was nice tosee our boys find their game again.
ReplyDeleteSometimes those games against the last place teams seem to come at the right time, last night was one of those situations. A win is a win and it has them back on track heading into Virden Tuesday. I agree with you on the play of all the players you mentioned. I also thought TJ had a better game.
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