Dec 17, 2022 | Scott Price | 136 views
U15 Rep IceDogs Get a Split Against Two Top Teams
Your U15 IceDogs were fresh off something that rarely happens - they blew a 3 goal lead, only to come back and win it late vs the Mid-Huron Huskies. Now, they had to face two tough opponents to close out their pre-Christmas schedule
First up, the Mount Forest Rams. The IceDogs came out flying early and the trio of Brayden P, Chris P and Riley J. combined with some pretty passing and Riley J. finding the back of the net for an early 1-0 lead. The IceDogs continued to play well at both ends (Owen W. was sensational in this one!) and carried a well deserved 1-0 lead into the 2nd period. The 2nd period saw the Rams try to steal back some momentum but Owen W. shut them down. Ethan S. would collect a pass from Tyler B. and go streaking through the neutral zone. A forehand - backhand beauty would put the IceDogs up by 2 heading into the flood.
The refs decided to let the Rams back into this one with some curious non calls and some curious calls against the IceDogs to begin the third. The Rams would get one back as the 'Dogs struggled to clear their zone. But, while they bent, they did not break and despite some cheap antics on the part of the Rams (and the refs not calling any of it!), the IceDogs stuck to their game and get a 2-1 victory on the road.
Next up, the Lakers. The Lakers are a top team this year in the u15 division so this would be a great test. And for 2 periods, the IceDogs were arguably the better team. Ethan hit the post and Brayden P. whiffed on two glorious chances, or the IceDogs would have been up 2 or 3-0. But, in hockey, when you don't capitalize on your chances and bury the other team when you have them on the ropes, you pay. And the IceDogs did. The Lakers would find their legs and potted a quick goal to begin the third. A couple more mistakes, an ill-timed penalty (with a less than stellar penalty kill on this night, and the IceDogs found themselves down 4-0 at the end of the game.
A little break for Christmas lies ahead but lots and lots of practice will do this team wonders....they are just missing that extra gear....but they are ready to break out...this coach can feel it!