The Zarmac Atom AE team split their games this weekend. The team continues to improve with coaches focusing on teamwork and applying pressure. Both were evident this weekend as the Bears played two strong games.
On Saturday, they hosted a feisty Penetang team. Both teams came out strong and the play was back and forth. 8 minutes into the first period a beautiful passing play from the Johnson, Baker, Cats line looked like it might result in a goal but a strong wrist shot but couldn’t beat the Penetang goalie. Later in the first period saw lots of pressure by the line of Crockford , Galloway and Garth but no goals. Garth and Crockford shifted off and with fresh legs of Cousineau and McNaughtan they flew on to the ice and got the puck to Galloway who fired a wrist shop high over the goalie’s blocker to make it 1-0 at the end of first.
There were many injuries during the game and twice, goalie Clement was hurt and replaced by Guthrie; both goalies were steady in net and made some great saves. There were also many penalties as the larger Penetang team had the Zarmac Bears fighting back and playing aggressive hockey. Bears defense had to take it for the team as Mocon (the Tank) made some diving saves and Brasi took a shot to the wrist. Black and Bennett were strong, ensuring the fast Penetang players didn’t get any breakaways. Second period was back and forth again and finally McNaughtan brought it down the wing and fired it in with pressure in front on the net as the Bears waited, hungry for rebounds. Penetang brought it right back to the Bears end and got one in during a scramble in front. A big save by Clement kept the Bears ahead then a scramble in front on the Penetang goal resulted in a goal by Thomas to make it 3-1 Bears. Penetang quickly got one back making it 3-2. The Bears had some more chances but it was Penetang who found the back of the net, to even the score 3-3.
After some more injuries and penalties, the score was 3-3 with seven minutes left. The Bears, worn down by the bigger, aggressive Penetang team lost some steam and two quick goals were scored. A puck turnover resulted in another goal for Penetang. The Bears come on strong the last few minutes but the game ended 6-3. With one Penetang goal being offside and only a short 5 minutes where Penetang had control, the Bears look forward to a rematch in December.
On Sunday, the Bears took on the Port Carling Thunder. The Bears played their game, with lots of passing, backchecking, steady defense at the blue line and great goaltending. The entire team played a great game. Every forward contributed with great pressure and passing. 5 players and all 3 forward lines got goals and many assists were awarded to forwards and defense with great heads up hockey being played. The Bears truly worked as a team. Great work at the blueline by the defense allowed the Bears to have more chances to score. Even goaltending duties were shared. The end result was an 8-3 win for the Bears.
Written by Marnie Garth