Jordan Reid Does it All for Fernie in KIJHL Road Win
Jordan Reid, a 20 yr old forward from Prince George imposed his will on the Kamloops Storm early in the game and scored all three goals for the Fernie Ghostriders in a 3-1 win at the MacPark Sportscentre in North Kamloops last evening.
And... he did it with variety.
His first goal, at 9:35 of the 1st period was a short-handed tally that had Kamloops captain, Jassi Sangha's head spinning. In Sangha's defense, he was kind of hung out to dry. While on the power play, Sangha was playing his usual point position and received a pass at the middle of the blueline with Reid pressuring. With Reid in his face, Jassi tried to get rid of the puck through his legs. Low percentage, no support. The puck bounced off of Reid's shinpads past Sangha and he had a clear breakaway from the Fernie blueline to Storm goaltender Brennan Jones. Reid chose to shoot from between the circles and beat Jones through the five-hole to put the score up 1-0.
Just over a minute later with Scott Kirkam in the box for kneeing, Reid capitalized on the PP with a lovely 3 way passing play between him, David McIvor and Scott Traverse.
Kamloops came out flying in the second period and at 5:26, Devon Gannon popped his 3rd goal of the season with some hard work from linemates David Gore and Jose Reyes.
Around the middle of the 2nd period, the whole game took a shift for the worse as referee Tom Henetiuk started blowing his whistle to command a parade to the penalty box. There were no less than 14 penalties called in the last 11 minutes of the period and he spent most of his time explaining his point of view to the coaches. It looked like he was having an ongoing feud with Storm bench boss, Ed Patterson regarding line changes and he put on a command performance to steal the show. Completely ruined the flow of the game.
The third period was a little tighter with Fernie holding the edge in play. Brennan Jones did his part for Kamloops, keeping them in the game making save after spectacular save. Reid finally got his chance to complete his hat-trick with an empty net tally just after Jones left the net for an extra attacker.
Fernie has always given Kamloops a tough time, with Kamloops winless against them over the last 2 seasons (4 regular season games and 4 straight in the playoffs last year). Although the Storm were seriously shorthanded with Lundy Treneman still out with an ankle injury and Jake Young leaving the game late in the first period from a blow to the head. The team put in a good effort, particularly in the 2nd period before the melee and some of the young guys got some valuable playing time.
With the win, Fernie now moves into first place in their division with a one point lead over the Creston Thundercats who took it on the chin (5-2) courtesy of the Chase Cheifs last night. The visiting teams will change places tonight with Creston in Kamloops and Fernie wandering down the road to Creston.
Player notes:
Great effort from Brennan Jones, his best home game of the season.
Devon Gannon is steadily improving as is Tod Stephenson who's skating and physical play has come up a notch or two in the last 3 weeks.
Payden Wongstedt and Shea Naka are progressing well on D.
Brock Backus, a recent newcomer is starting to find his place and Jose Reyes was probably the most consistent forward on the evening.
On the downside:
I've seen this before at many levels in hockey and I'm not sure how coach Patterson is going to break the habit. The team is having a tough time scoring goals and part of it is finding a way to capitalize on the deep cycle. There seems to be a lot of work down low in the offensive corners but the puck just isn't getting out for quality scoring chances. In fact, it seems that many times it is the only option (cycling) that the forwards have on their minds as they penetrate the offensive zone.
A little creativity and foot movement may go a long ways in beating this rap.
See you at tonight's game against Creston or listen up for free while it lasts on the streaming video broadcast provided by the Kamloops Storm and the KIJHL.
Your comments are welcome but keep it clean.
2007-11-03
2007-10-28
Limping Home
October Skid Gives Kamloops Storm Severe Road Rash
It's been 7 games (6 road games) and just over 2 weeks since the Kamloops Storm tasted victory and with a game at home against local rivals, the Chase Chiefs (8-5-3), a win couldn't come at a better time.
It has been a disasterous month with the Storm firmly entrenched in last place (did I say that?) in the Eddie Mountain Conference. Coach Ed Patterson must be shaking his head wondering what he can do to bring out the perceived talent that this team brings to the rink. Over the last 7 games they have scored all but 15 goals, just over 2 goals a game while allowing almost 4 goals/game against. But they have come so close. Of the 7 straight losses, 4 have been one goal games while last night's tilt against Castlegar was a 2 goal loss with an empty netter.
The loss of Jassi Sangha to the Merritt Centennials (temporary or permanent... I guess we will find out) is obviously a blow however this is the time that the rest of the team needs to step it up a notch. Much like last year at this time, the coach has got to be wondering who his leaders are going to be and those players must learn to lead. They need to take them over the threshold to win those one goal games rather than lose them.
Today would be a good time to change the direction of this team.
Without pointing fingers, the 19 and 20 year olds must be held accountable and the young guys need to show that they want more. There were a lot of guys hanging around for a few weeks and when the rosters were trimmed it seems that the competitive spirit has waned with the satisfaction of having made the team. Not exactly what the coach had in mind.
So rather than go out there and show reckless aggression that will keep them shorthanded, a little discipline and an unparalleled desire to win will eventually pay dividends. Let's hope that the worthy coach and owner won't have to make some drastic moves to shake out the dead wood.
Without having seen the team play since Oct 13, I will reserve further comment for a post-game analysis.
It's been 7 games (6 road games) and just over 2 weeks since the Kamloops Storm tasted victory and with a game at home against local rivals, the Chase Chiefs (8-5-3), a win couldn't come at a better time.
It has been a disasterous month with the Storm firmly entrenched in last place (did I say that?) in the Eddie Mountain Conference. Coach Ed Patterson must be shaking his head wondering what he can do to bring out the perceived talent that this team brings to the rink. Over the last 7 games they have scored all but 15 goals, just over 2 goals a game while allowing almost 4 goals/game against. But they have come so close. Of the 7 straight losses, 4 have been one goal games while last night's tilt against Castlegar was a 2 goal loss with an empty netter.
The loss of Jassi Sangha to the Merritt Centennials (temporary or permanent... I guess we will find out) is obviously a blow however this is the time that the rest of the team needs to step it up a notch. Much like last year at this time, the coach has got to be wondering who his leaders are going to be and those players must learn to lead. They need to take them over the threshold to win those one goal games rather than lose them.
Today would be a good time to change the direction of this team.
Without pointing fingers, the 19 and 20 year olds must be held accountable and the young guys need to show that they want more. There were a lot of guys hanging around for a few weeks and when the rosters were trimmed it seems that the competitive spirit has waned with the satisfaction of having made the team. Not exactly what the coach had in mind.
So rather than go out there and show reckless aggression that will keep them shorthanded, a little discipline and an unparalleled desire to win will eventually pay dividends. Let's hope that the worthy coach and owner won't have to make some drastic moves to shake out the dead wood.
Without having seen the team play since Oct 13, I will reserve further comment for a post-game analysis.
2007-10-13
Kamloops Storm Grounds Golden Rockets
Jake Young Scores Hatrick in Lopsided Win!
After a sloppy and boring first period where both teams and the crowd needed a wake-up call, the Kamloops Storm scored 5 goals in the 2nd period of last night's game to bury the Golden Rockets.
The first period may have been the sloppiest period of hockey we have seen all season with both teams showing very little in continuity, crispness and accuracy. One of the people in the crowd observed that Kamloops completed two passes in a row only twice in the opening frame. Never the less, the game was tied 2-2 going into the 2nd.
Cody Cringan scored both Golden goals in the first period, the first goal coming at only 0:55 sec of the period. The puck was shot in along the glass when the puck caremed off a glass support to the crease where Kamloops goaltender, Tory Caldwell attempted to cover up the puck. Apparently, the puck was still visible and a sharp and persistent Cringan poked at it until it slipped quietly into the net.
A few minutes later, with Scott Kirkam in the the box for hooking, Lundy Treneman worked his penalty killing magic by stripping the puck from a Rocket defender and went in on a 2-on-0 breakaway with... the hottest sniper in the league right now, Jassi Sangha... fed him the puck and Sangha had no problem burying the biscuit to tie the scored at one.
At 16:53 with Golden on the power play, Cringan scored his second of the period with a quick blast from the left side circle, beating Caldwell cleanly.
Golden forward Luke Rasmussen took a penalty for tripping with only 5 seconds left with the faceoff in the Golden end. This ended up being the "TSN turning point" of the evening as Sangha stepped into the circle, won the faceoff back to Cody Lockwood who fed Jamie Galbraith who let the quick shot go. Sangha, drifting back toward the net took Galbraith's shot in his body or off his stick and the puck went into the net with literally no time left on the clock to tie the score at 2.
From then on, it was all Kamloops, particularly in the 2nd period.
Jake Young started his assault on the evening on a nice feed from Jose Reyes with a laser beam over the shoulder of Rockets goaltender Edwin Weightman. A minute later, Todd Stephenson, the Australian National Team junior benefited from some hard work by David Gore and a sweet pass from Sangha to quickly put Kamloops up 4-2.
The buzz was starting.
Then it was Young getting his second of the evening at 6:28 of the 2nd period on the power play, assisted by Treneman and Lockwood.
Josh Caron scored his first goal of the season when he took advantage of some sloppy play by Golden in their own zone by driving the net and finishing off another sweet feed by Sangha at 14:35. David Gore completed the 2nd period assault by the Storm on the power play with assists from Treneman and Mike Hanes.
With the score under control Kamloops coach Ed Patterson started giving more ice time to his 3rd and 4th lines who matched up well with whatever Golden through at them and Tory Caldwell stood tall in the nets to stop some pretty good opportunities by the Rockets as they tried to make a game of it.
Young capped off his evening with his hat-trick goal at 7:55 on a 2 on 1 pass from Reyes, again a wristed laser beam over the shoulder of Weightman to make the score an unsurmountable 6 goal advantage.
Young ended up being 1st star with 3 goals and one assist.
Sangha had a 4 point game with 2 goals and 2 assists to garner 2nd star honours.
And Cody Cringan, with his 2 goals in the 1st period, captured the 3rd star position.
With the win, Kamloops ties Princeton for bottom spot in the competitive Eddy Mountain - West Division with 12 points on a 6-6 record, but only 4 points behind division leading Summerland who lost a squeaker to Revelostoke last night.
Be sure to tune in for tonight's game or make your way to the MacPark Sports Centre here in Kamloops for a showdown of last years Division finalists, the Revelstoke Grizzlies. Game time is 7pm and we will be broadcasting the game with play-by-play video streaming for your enjoyment.
After a sloppy and boring first period where both teams and the crowd needed a wake-up call, the Kamloops Storm scored 5 goals in the 2nd period of last night's game to bury the Golden Rockets.
The first period may have been the sloppiest period of hockey we have seen all season with both teams showing very little in continuity, crispness and accuracy. One of the people in the crowd observed that Kamloops completed two passes in a row only twice in the opening frame. Never the less, the game was tied 2-2 going into the 2nd.
Cody Cringan scored both Golden goals in the first period, the first goal coming at only 0:55 sec of the period. The puck was shot in along the glass when the puck caremed off a glass support to the crease where Kamloops goaltender, Tory Caldwell attempted to cover up the puck. Apparently, the puck was still visible and a sharp and persistent Cringan poked at it until it slipped quietly into the net.
A few minutes later, with Scott Kirkam in the the box for hooking, Lundy Treneman worked his penalty killing magic by stripping the puck from a Rocket defender and went in on a 2-on-0 breakaway with... the hottest sniper in the league right now, Jassi Sangha... fed him the puck and Sangha had no problem burying the biscuit to tie the scored at one.
At 16:53 with Golden on the power play, Cringan scored his second of the period with a quick blast from the left side circle, beating Caldwell cleanly.
Golden forward Luke Rasmussen took a penalty for tripping with only 5 seconds left with the faceoff in the Golden end. This ended up being the "TSN turning point" of the evening as Sangha stepped into the circle, won the faceoff back to Cody Lockwood who fed Jamie Galbraith who let the quick shot go. Sangha, drifting back toward the net took Galbraith's shot in his body or off his stick and the puck went into the net with literally no time left on the clock to tie the score at 2.
From then on, it was all Kamloops, particularly in the 2nd period.
Jake Young started his assault on the evening on a nice feed from Jose Reyes with a laser beam over the shoulder of Rockets goaltender Edwin Weightman. A minute later, Todd Stephenson, the Australian National Team junior benefited from some hard work by David Gore and a sweet pass from Sangha to quickly put Kamloops up 4-2.
The buzz was starting.
Then it was Young getting his second of the evening at 6:28 of the 2nd period on the power play, assisted by Treneman and Lockwood.
Josh Caron scored his first goal of the season when he took advantage of some sloppy play by Golden in their own zone by driving the net and finishing off another sweet feed by Sangha at 14:35. David Gore completed the 2nd period assault by the Storm on the power play with assists from Treneman and Mike Hanes.
With the score under control Kamloops coach Ed Patterson started giving more ice time to his 3rd and 4th lines who matched up well with whatever Golden through at them and Tory Caldwell stood tall in the nets to stop some pretty good opportunities by the Rockets as they tried to make a game of it.
Young capped off his evening with his hat-trick goal at 7:55 on a 2 on 1 pass from Reyes, again a wristed laser beam over the shoulder of Weightman to make the score an unsurmountable 6 goal advantage.
Young ended up being 1st star with 3 goals and one assist.
Sangha had a 4 point game with 2 goals and 2 assists to garner 2nd star honours.
And Cody Cringan, with his 2 goals in the 1st period, captured the 3rd star position.
With the win, Kamloops ties Princeton for bottom spot in the competitive Eddy Mountain - West Division with 12 points on a 6-6 record, but only 4 points behind division leading Summerland who lost a squeaker to Revelostoke last night.
Be sure to tune in for tonight's game or make your way to the MacPark Sports Centre here in Kamloops for a showdown of last years Division finalists, the Revelstoke Grizzlies. Game time is 7pm and we will be broadcasting the game with play-by-play video streaming for your enjoyment.
2007-09-17
Chase Chiefs take Kamloops by Storm
Lack of Intensity may cost more than 2 points for some Players
With an overflowing roster, some veterans temporarily on the sidelines and the possibility of more players being returned from Junior A, there has got to be some questions as to who gets to stay and who gets golden handshake.
The Storm, coming off a stellar opening night victory against the Kimberly Dynamiters of Friday, showed little after the middle of the first period against new South Thompson rivals, the Chase Chiefs.
Jassi Sanga scored early in the game, his 4th in 2 games and the team looked like they expected to cruise through this one too. Not so.
Although Kamloops looked great offensively (well, the Sangha, Trenaman, Gore combination in particular) on Friday night, their defensive play was sloppy and Kimberly just couldn't muster up the offense and take advantage. Sunday was a different story. Sloppy passing, poor pick-ups, and weak clearing attempts all but exposed some team weaknesses and unfortunately some player personell weaknesses. Not to mention the lack of ability to win key faceoffs or take advantage of one's that were won. And it really wasn't the defense as much as it was the forwards giving up odd man opportunities with errant passes and slow decision making.
Personally, I believe that the Storm is further ahead in terms of personell at this particular stage in the season but with the glut of players still in camp and the potential for the team to pick up some Jr A cuts, one has to wonder who's gotta go.
Veteran utility player, Jamie Galbraith is still on the sidelines. He hurt his ankle over the summer and has started skating. He is a good bet to grab a spot before long. Jose Reyes, another league vet, injured his ankle in game one and will likely be back between 2-4 weeks.
Australian National Junior standout, Todd Stephenson, who played some exhibition games here last season against the Storm is waiting for clearance from Hockey Canada. He is likely to crack the top 6 forwards.
So, who's likely to stay? Here's our guess on how the chips will fall over the next few weeks. Coach Patterson is heading out on a 2 week road trip where he will be able to find who can and will step up to the plate.
Keep in mind, this review is our own opinion without inside information.
Who Stays?
There are a lot of guys who haven't played yet. If the team is going to carry 4 lines, we see only 3-4 spots available after the dust settles.
Forwards:
Sangha, Trenaman, Gore, Stephenson, Kirkham, Nowick, Reyes, Long
Sangha and Trenaman are a lock. Stephenson, barring some unforeseen challenge should also be a lock because of his long distance commitment.
Scott Kirkam has grown and is looking much better that last year.
Reyes is a league vet and brings an honest effort and high intensity.
Gore can obviously put the puck in the net.
Nowick and Long had solid efforts and were able to create opportunities.
Defense:
This is a good nucleus. Big, strong and mobile the Storm is blessed with quality vets and talented youngsters.
Lockwood, Wongstedt, Naka, Henderson, Caron.
On the Bubble?
Forwards:
Mike Hanes - Defenseman gone to forward, Hanes has the ability to play either position in this league. His aggressiveness (although very crowd pleasing) puts him in the penalty box much too often. With special teams playing a big part of the game these days, Mike needs to decide whether he is going to help the team or hinder it. It is unfortunate that the rules of the game cramp his style but that is the reality. If he stays out of the box Hanes is talented enough to contribute in a big way.
Jamie Galbraith - although likely to grap a spot, he will be pushed by some of the younger players to keep his spot.
Dominc Alec - showed well in the game against Chase, this kid is young and wants a spot. Needs to improve on his skating but he hits like a Mac Truck.
Devon Gannon - didn't make much happen this past weekend, needs to pick it up and be a force
Mick Ludvig - lots of intensity but is small in stature and hasn't played much the last couple of years. Similar to last years' Darren Mann but not as quick or as solid on his feet. Perhaps a couple more weeks will allow him to return to a level that is indicitive of what is required.
Riley Marsh - Played ok this weekend but with limited spots available he also has to pick it up a bit to stay on this roster.
Keelan Edwards - Made the team last year, had a serious eye injury and has returned. Keelan hasn't shown that he has improved much, particularly his skating and didn't show a lot of intensity. Possible trade bait but in tough to stay on this roster.
Stefan Jensen, Randy Hanes, Keagan Hunter, Brock Mott and a few others still in camp haven't played and may or may not get their chance on the road trip.
Defense:
This is a pretty solid group. We listed our top 5 which leaves only one or two spots open. With both Galbraith and Hanes able to play defense also, the competition gets tighter.
Mike McCance - played ok this past weekend but had difficulty with the puck when pressured and struggled on the power play when given the chance. He may be in tough here but has the ability to play in the league.
Patrick Pinder - did not play this weekend. no report.
Goaltenders:
The Storm did not have the same goaltenders at the end of last season that they started with. Unfortunately this position can be a revolving door situation. Brennan Jones is capable of playing Junior A and Tory Caldwell is yet to be game tested. The Merrit Centennials have an extra goaltender in camp and will likely be sending one this way.
Jones is #1 for now and it appears that someone either has to take it from him or he goes elsewhere and opens up a spot. I'm sure that Caldwell will get his opportunity to shine while on the road.
We expect that a few cuts will be made in the next 24-48 hrs as the team gets ready to hit the road for the first time this season. We will try to keep you updated as things progress.
Next Home Game - Oct 5 - Summerland / Oct 6 - Princeton
Got a Comment? Please submit below. We do reserve the right to edit any vulgar or inappropriate material so keep it civilized. We look forward to hearing from you.
With an overflowing roster, some veterans temporarily on the sidelines and the possibility of more players being returned from Junior A, there has got to be some questions as to who gets to stay and who gets golden handshake.
The Storm, coming off a stellar opening night victory against the Kimberly Dynamiters of Friday, showed little after the middle of the first period against new South Thompson rivals, the Chase Chiefs.
Jassi Sanga scored early in the game, his 4th in 2 games and the team looked like they expected to cruise through this one too. Not so.
Although Kamloops looked great offensively (well, the Sangha, Trenaman, Gore combination in particular) on Friday night, their defensive play was sloppy and Kimberly just couldn't muster up the offense and take advantage. Sunday was a different story. Sloppy passing, poor pick-ups, and weak clearing attempts all but exposed some team weaknesses and unfortunately some player personell weaknesses. Not to mention the lack of ability to win key faceoffs or take advantage of one's that were won. And it really wasn't the defense as much as it was the forwards giving up odd man opportunities with errant passes and slow decision making.
Personally, I believe that the Storm is further ahead in terms of personell at this particular stage in the season but with the glut of players still in camp and the potential for the team to pick up some Jr A cuts, one has to wonder who's gotta go.
Veteran utility player, Jamie Galbraith is still on the sidelines. He hurt his ankle over the summer and has started skating. He is a good bet to grab a spot before long. Jose Reyes, another league vet, injured his ankle in game one and will likely be back between 2-4 weeks.
Australian National Junior standout, Todd Stephenson, who played some exhibition games here last season against the Storm is waiting for clearance from Hockey Canada. He is likely to crack the top 6 forwards.
So, who's likely to stay? Here's our guess on how the chips will fall over the next few weeks. Coach Patterson is heading out on a 2 week road trip where he will be able to find who can and will step up to the plate.
Keep in mind, this review is our own opinion without inside information.
Who Stays?
There are a lot of guys who haven't played yet. If the team is going to carry 4 lines, we see only 3-4 spots available after the dust settles.
Forwards:
Sangha, Trenaman, Gore, Stephenson, Kirkham, Nowick, Reyes, Long
Sangha and Trenaman are a lock. Stephenson, barring some unforeseen challenge should also be a lock because of his long distance commitment.
Scott Kirkam has grown and is looking much better that last year.
Reyes is a league vet and brings an honest effort and high intensity.
Gore can obviously put the puck in the net.
Nowick and Long had solid efforts and were able to create opportunities.
Defense:
This is a good nucleus. Big, strong and mobile the Storm is blessed with quality vets and talented youngsters.
Lockwood, Wongstedt, Naka, Henderson, Caron.
On the Bubble?
Forwards:
Mike Hanes - Defenseman gone to forward, Hanes has the ability to play either position in this league. His aggressiveness (although very crowd pleasing) puts him in the penalty box much too often. With special teams playing a big part of the game these days, Mike needs to decide whether he is going to help the team or hinder it. It is unfortunate that the rules of the game cramp his style but that is the reality. If he stays out of the box Hanes is talented enough to contribute in a big way.
Jamie Galbraith - although likely to grap a spot, he will be pushed by some of the younger players to keep his spot.
Dominc Alec - showed well in the game against Chase, this kid is young and wants a spot. Needs to improve on his skating but he hits like a Mac Truck.
Devon Gannon - didn't make much happen this past weekend, needs to pick it up and be a force
Mick Ludvig - lots of intensity but is small in stature and hasn't played much the last couple of years. Similar to last years' Darren Mann but not as quick or as solid on his feet. Perhaps a couple more weeks will allow him to return to a level that is indicitive of what is required.
Riley Marsh - Played ok this weekend but with limited spots available he also has to pick it up a bit to stay on this roster.
Keelan Edwards - Made the team last year, had a serious eye injury and has returned. Keelan hasn't shown that he has improved much, particularly his skating and didn't show a lot of intensity. Possible trade bait but in tough to stay on this roster.
Stefan Jensen, Randy Hanes, Keagan Hunter, Brock Mott and a few others still in camp haven't played and may or may not get their chance on the road trip.
Defense:
This is a pretty solid group. We listed our top 5 which leaves only one or two spots open. With both Galbraith and Hanes able to play defense also, the competition gets tighter.
Mike McCance - played ok this past weekend but had difficulty with the puck when pressured and struggled on the power play when given the chance. He may be in tough here but has the ability to play in the league.
Patrick Pinder - did not play this weekend. no report.
Goaltenders:
The Storm did not have the same goaltenders at the end of last season that they started with. Unfortunately this position can be a revolving door situation. Brennan Jones is capable of playing Junior A and Tory Caldwell is yet to be game tested. The Merrit Centennials have an extra goaltender in camp and will likely be sending one this way.
Jones is #1 for now and it appears that someone either has to take it from him or he goes elsewhere and opens up a spot. I'm sure that Caldwell will get his opportunity to shine while on the road.
We expect that a few cuts will be made in the next 24-48 hrs as the team gets ready to hit the road for the first time this season. We will try to keep you updated as things progress.
Next Home Game - Oct 5 - Summerland / Oct 6 - Princeton
Got a Comment? Please submit below. We do reserve the right to edit any vulgar or inappropriate material so keep it civilized. We look forward to hearing from you.
2007-09-15
The Storm Report - by Barry Dewar
Game One of the 2007/08 season is in the books.
The Storm had a convincing 7-3 win over the Kimberley Dynamiters. The Storm scored all seven goals on special teams with 6 power play goals and one shorthanded goal.
Jassi Sangha lead the way with 6 points (3 goals and 3 assists) in another Domino Pizza give away for all the fans. Jassi playing on a line with Lundy Trenaman and David Gore on the power play were pretty much unstoppable. Jassi also scored one shorthanded goal and almost had more as he enjoyed the return to the Storm. Trenaman and Gore also had great nights with Gore getting one goal and 3 assists while Trenaman set up 4 goals for 4 assists.
Some other highlites of the night included our first video webcast. While we still have some technical glitches to fix overall it seems to be well received and word is the games will be archived for review should the need arise.
Other goal scorers for the Storm were Payden Wongstedt of Fort St. John who played a stellar game on defense, Jose Reyes from Kamloops and Dominic Alec also from Kamloops got the other goals. Wongstedt took a great pass from Scott Kirkham on a goal mouth pass while Alec and his line of Riley Marsh and Brandon Long were strong all night long. Reyes who came to the Storm after playing last season fit in nicely in his Storm debut but left the game late in the third period after a cheap shot by one of the Dynamiters injured him. Derek Henderson of Langley answered the bell for his teammate by pummeling the offender in his first fight of the season. Henderson also had a strong game on the blue line as did Cody Lockwood who will be one of the leaders on the defense.
Brennon Jones got the win in net making 33 of 36 saves. Jones was tested early and made a couple of big saves and played a strong game in net.
The win is the first for the coaching tandem of Ed Patterson, Gille Leberre and Chad Ferris who ran an excellent bench.
The Storm had a convincing 7-3 win over the Kimberley Dynamiters. The Storm scored all seven goals on special teams with 6 power play goals and one shorthanded goal.
Jassi Sangha lead the way with 6 points (3 goals and 3 assists) in another Domino Pizza give away for all the fans. Jassi playing on a line with Lundy Trenaman and David Gore on the power play were pretty much unstoppable. Jassi also scored one shorthanded goal and almost had more as he enjoyed the return to the Storm. Trenaman and Gore also had great nights with Gore getting one goal and 3 assists while Trenaman set up 4 goals for 4 assists.
Some other highlites of the night included our first video webcast. While we still have some technical glitches to fix overall it seems to be well received and word is the games will be archived for review should the need arise.
Other goal scorers for the Storm were Payden Wongstedt of Fort St. John who played a stellar game on defense, Jose Reyes from Kamloops and Dominic Alec also from Kamloops got the other goals. Wongstedt took a great pass from Scott Kirkham on a goal mouth pass while Alec and his line of Riley Marsh and Brandon Long were strong all night long. Reyes who came to the Storm after playing last season fit in nicely in his Storm debut but left the game late in the third period after a cheap shot by one of the Dynamiters injured him. Derek Henderson of Langley answered the bell for his teammate by pummeling the offender in his first fight of the season. Henderson also had a strong game on the blue line as did Cody Lockwood who will be one of the leaders on the defense.
Brennon Jones got the win in net making 33 of 36 saves. Jones was tested early and made a couple of big saves and played a strong game in net.
The win is the first for the coaching tandem of Ed Patterson, Gille Leberre and Chad Ferris who ran an excellent bench.
Storm Blasts Dynamiters at 2007 Home Opener
Vets Sangha and Trenaman Light it Up to Start the Season
It's been a long summer for Jassi Sangha and Lundy Trenaman. After falling 4 straight to eventual KIJHL winners, Fernie Ghostbusters last spring, the Kamloops Storm is setting their sites on a championship this season with Sangha and Trenaman expected to lead the way. This opening night they didn't disappoint.
In what seemed like mid-season form, Sangha had 3G - 3A and Treneman had 4 assists in 7-3 shellacking of Kimberly Dynamiters. Newcomer David Gore also had a great night as he was credited a goal and 4 assists.
Special teams played a big part in the win as the Storm scored 6 of the 7 goals on the power play and one spectacular short handed effort intiated by Trenaman and completed by Sangha. 2 of the 4 goals by Kimberly were also on the power play.
With a good mixture of vets, newcomers and rookies, Kamloops looked reasonably organized on the ice compared to Kimberly who couldn't seem to get it together or get a break until the 2nd period when they were already down 4-0. The Storm saw commendable efforts from league veterans Cody Lockwood (D), Jose Reyes(F), Mike Hanes(F), Devon Gannon(F), Scott Kirkam(F) and Brendan Jones(F). Newcomers Payden Wongstedt(D) and Shea Naka (D) showed poised and impressed on the back end, both getting lots of PP and PK time.
For Kimberly, vets Mike Whitequilles and Tommy Latouche-Gauvin were solid up front but couldn't seem to pull the trigger when they needed it most. Kimberly's biggest downfall was their lack of discipline that saw them parade to the penalty box time after time and Kamloops just seem to eat them up on the PP. Goaltender Mike Marino faced a number of quality opportunities and played pretty well despite the 7 goals.
There was one fight in the game. Jose Reyes had a knee taken out on a cheap shot late in the game by Matt Wilkins. Newcomer Derek Henderson would have nothing of that and proceeded to punish Wilkens for his dastardly deed. Both players were ejected from the game with the KIJHL's new one fight rule (more on this on another post).
All in all the 650 fans went home happy with a home team win and a Domino's pizza coupon for a free 10" pizza for the team scoring over 5 goals in a game. Thanks again Domino's!
The Storm's next game is this Sunday, 5pm, when they suit up against the new Chase Chiefs at the Mac Park Sports Centre here in Kamloops. Hope to see you there.
It's been a long summer for Jassi Sangha and Lundy Trenaman. After falling 4 straight to eventual KIJHL winners, Fernie Ghostbusters last spring, the Kamloops Storm is setting their sites on a championship this season with Sangha and Trenaman expected to lead the way. This opening night they didn't disappoint.
In what seemed like mid-season form, Sangha had 3G - 3A and Treneman had 4 assists in 7-3 shellacking of Kimberly Dynamiters. Newcomer David Gore also had a great night as he was credited a goal and 4 assists.
Special teams played a big part in the win as the Storm scored 6 of the 7 goals on the power play and one spectacular short handed effort intiated by Trenaman and completed by Sangha. 2 of the 4 goals by Kimberly were also on the power play.
With a good mixture of vets, newcomers and rookies, Kamloops looked reasonably organized on the ice compared to Kimberly who couldn't seem to get it together or get a break until the 2nd period when they were already down 4-0. The Storm saw commendable efforts from league veterans Cody Lockwood (D), Jose Reyes(F), Mike Hanes(F), Devon Gannon(F), Scott Kirkam(F) and Brendan Jones(F). Newcomers Payden Wongstedt(D) and Shea Naka (D) showed poised and impressed on the back end, both getting lots of PP and PK time.
For Kimberly, vets Mike Whitequilles and Tommy Latouche-Gauvin were solid up front but couldn't seem to pull the trigger when they needed it most. Kimberly's biggest downfall was their lack of discipline that saw them parade to the penalty box time after time and Kamloops just seem to eat them up on the PP. Goaltender Mike Marino faced a number of quality opportunities and played pretty well despite the 7 goals.
There was one fight in the game. Jose Reyes had a knee taken out on a cheap shot late in the game by Matt Wilkins. Newcomer Derek Henderson would have nothing of that and proceeded to punish Wilkens for his dastardly deed. Both players were ejected from the game with the KIJHL's new one fight rule (more on this on another post).
All in all the 650 fans went home happy with a home team win and a Domino's pizza coupon for a free 10" pizza for the team scoring over 5 goals in a game. Thanks again Domino's!
The Storm's next game is this Sunday, 5pm, when they suit up against the new Chase Chiefs at the Mac Park Sports Centre here in Kamloops. Hope to see you there.
2007-03-16
Ghostriders Weather the Storm
Fernie wins Game 1 in Double OT
Trevor Hertz scored his 2nd goal of the game at 4:47 of the 2nd overtime period to give the Fernie Ghostriders the opening win in KIJHL semi-final action last night at the Fernie Memorial Arena.
It was a great game with each team running through cycles of momentum, trading periods of dominance throughout. The nearly 900 fans were into it as they packed the old palace and their home team didn't disappoint.
Kamloops executed their game plan well most of the time and showed a lot of grit and determination to come back twice from a goal down after setting the tone early in the first period with a power play goal by Ryan Bullock.
The Storm did a very good job early in the game keeping high-scoring Fernie forward Martin Croteau under wraps but it was his supporting cast that also came to play and ultimately put the game away.
Kamloops wasn't without it's chances. In the overtime, Ryan Bullock had an opportunity when he forced a turnover and went in on a breakaway only to be thwarted by Fernie goaltender Evan Smith.
Both goaltenders, Smith and Storm backstopper Anthony Manfredi had solid games keeping their teams in the hunt when called upon. Manfredi made a Dominic Hasek type save in the second period to keep the score at 2-1 that kept the Storm within reach.
It was give-aways in the defensive end that ultimately cost Kamloops the game as Fernie displayed great puck possesion when they kept the puck in the Storms zone.
Other goal scorers for Kamloops were Lundy Trenaman and Anthony Collins, both capitalizing in the goalmouth area. Trenaman's was a nice tip in from a Paul Riddell point shot and Collins was johnny-on-the-spot picking up a rebound and tucking it under goatender Evan Smith.
Fernie had 2 goals from Hertz and 2 from David McIvor.
Game 2 goes tonight at 7:30 mountain time (6:30 Kamloops time) at the Fernie Memorial Arena. Game 3 will be in Kamloops on Sunday night, 7:30 at the Mac Park Sports Centre.
BOXSCORE
2007-03-12
Storm Sweeps Series Against Grizzlies
Kamloops on the Road for Next Series Opener
In a well played and officiated game, the Kamloops Storm stayed one step ahead of the Revelstoke Grizzlies to take the Okanagan-Shuswap Division Championship 4 games to none.
Unlike the fiasco the night before which saw an unparalleled parade to the penalty box, this was a good game.
Revelstoke started strong and played well but it was Kamloops who notched the first goal and stayed ahead or tied all game. Jassi Sangha kept his hot hand going with a goal and 2assists and league playoff goal scorer, Ryan Bullock had 2 goals and one assist including the game winning goal. Lundy Trenaman had the other Kamloops goal.
boxscore
Manfredi was Magnificent!
The difference in the series was goaltending. Although Grizzlies goaltenders Colin Stebner and Jordan Barry played well (except perhaps game 3), Anthony Manfredi stole the show, especially in game 4. In the second and 3rd period when Kamloops got themselves into some defensive trouble Manfredi was simply spectacular making Dominic Hasek type saves to keep his team in the game. You could see the focus in his posture and demeanor, challenging Revelstoke to test him. Revelstoke still managed to beat him for 3 power play goals, something they struggled with earlier in the series but when the game was on the line, Manfredi showed why he was chosen the division MVP.
On the Road
The next series, a 3 of 5 game affair will take place in either Fernie or Beaver Valley depending on the outcome of the Nelson - Beaver Valley series. If Nelson wins, they get the bye into the final and Kamloops is off to Fernie to play the Ghostriders in the semi-final. If Beaver Valley wins, they will host the Storm and Fernie would get the bye.
Currently Nelson leads the series 3-2 and Game 6 goes tonight in Beaver Valley.
Expect the semi-final series to start this Wed or Thurs.
2007-03-09
Kamloops Storm takes 3-0 Series Lead in Penalty Marred Game
Officiating Crew Outshines Teams for Headlines
It took less than one minute for the officiating crew of the game 3 showdown between Kamloops and Revelstoke to steal the headlines of the game. I don't know about you but I have yet to attend a hockey game where the crowd has come to see the referees. Only their mommas. And with their performance last night in the Revelstoke arena, their daddies would hide in shame.
From the opening buzzer to the end of the game the officials made more calls than commodity broker and much like a broker, half of their calls were duds. And to make matters worse, the bad calls made against one team seemed to be alternated soon afterwards to balance the injustices. It was a fiasco at best and resembled the recent television commercial where the referee makes an announcement that he blew the call and that he would for "no good reason" penalize the other team to even things out. Only the crowd never got the courtesy of the announcement.
The Grizzlies got into penalty trouble less than one minute into the game and from there on the officials made it clear that it was their game, not the teams. Poor judgement, missed calls, phantom calls and even changed calls sucked the life out of the crowd, players, coaches and even the announcers of the game. Everyone went home shaking their heads wondering what the heck happened.
Oh yes, Kamloops won 6-1 and now has a stranglehold on the series which could end tonight if Revelstoke can't battle their demons in dealing with the refereeing situation. You could see the Grizzlies frustration building between the questionable calls against them and their inability to crack the Kamloops defensive wall and put the puck in the net when they had the chance. Kamloops on the other hand, although also frustrated, made good on a few of their chances and pulled away steadily, scoring 2 goals in each period to win the game.
As of this writing (10:15 AM - Friday), the boxscores have not been posted so the amount of penaties and the goal scoring summary is not available. Probably overloaded the KIJHL boxscore program. We can tell you that Kamloops got a natural hat trick from Ryan Bullock and singles from Anthony Collins, Darren Mann and supposedly Lundy Trenaman. It was Justin Giroux who fired the shot that seemed to go off of goaltender Colin Stebner's glove. That call was all part and parcel of one of the most poorly managed games we have seen.
Revelstoke had the parade to the box in the first period while Kamloops seem to take the brunt of the calls in the second. When Kamloops went up 3-0 in the 2nd, Grizzlies coach Brad Fox changed up his goaltenders, substituting Jordan Barry in for Stebner. The Grizzlies seemed to regroup for awhile, scoring one goal on the power play but reverted back to their black hole of frustration when Bullock scored his first goal late in the second period to put Kamloops up 4-1.
With the game seemingly out of reach, the Grizzlies frustration seemed to overflow in the 3rd period and again the boxes were full. At one time Revelstoke had 4 men in the penalty box and Kamloops had 2 resulting in a Storm 5 on 3 power play. One could only feel that the referee was just looking to penalize the players. He blew a number of other calls too like when the puck clearly hit an overhead beam and rebounded back to the ice. Instead of calling the play dead, he let it go, giving Revelstoke a 2 on 1 break when Cody Kightley took a penalty for hauling down the Grizzlie puck carrier. The ensuing power play resulted in Revelstoke's only goal by Brent Madlung. If the right call had been made, the power play doesn't happen and Manfredi keeps his shutout.
The shutout is a mute point. Both coaches were frustrated. In the end Kamloops ended up taking a late time out and replaced goaltender Anthony Manfredi with back-up Brennan Jones with about 3 minutes to go as Revelstoke looked prepared to take their frustrations out on the Storm players. Good move by coach Bryant Perrier.
There was only one fight in the game with Brent Meissinger duking it out with Justin Giroux (I think... gosh I need those box scores). Without knowing the final count, there must have been at least 40 penalty calls during the game. There was very little flow and very little even strength play.
Your guess is as good as mine as to what game 4 will bring tonight. Revelstoke will be fighting for their playoff lives and had better bring their work ethic and a huge dose of discipline. If Kamloops manages to start pulling away in this one it may end up as this weeks version of Friday Night Fights as revenge and a reminder for next season is all that the Grizzlies will have left to compete for.
Having the opportunity to see this series played in both rinks, I would have to say that I was impressed as much with Kamloops ability to adjust their game on the smaller ice surface as I was with Revelstoke and how they played at the Mac Island Sports Centre on an olympic-sized surface. Kamloops was able to block dozens of shots and showed poise and skill in making successful defensive zone transitions, getting themselve out of trouble time after time.
Our 3 stars of the game were:
1) Ryan Bullock - 3 goals
2) Darren Mann - speed, persistence and a goal made him a solid choice
3) Derik Yuskiw - Revelstoke's brightest light- blocked shots, punishing body checks and solid forechecking
In other action:
Fernie takes a 3-0 lead in their series defeating Creston 7-2 in Creston.
In Beaver Valley it was the NiteHawks taking a 2-1 series lead over favoured Nelson with a 4-3 win.
All series resume tonight so get out and cheer your favorite team.
It took less than one minute for the officiating crew of the game 3 showdown between Kamloops and Revelstoke to steal the headlines of the game. I don't know about you but I have yet to attend a hockey game where the crowd has come to see the referees. Only their mommas. And with their performance last night in the Revelstoke arena, their daddies would hide in shame.
From the opening buzzer to the end of the game the officials made more calls than commodity broker and much like a broker, half of their calls were duds. And to make matters worse, the bad calls made against one team seemed to be alternated soon afterwards to balance the injustices. It was a fiasco at best and resembled the recent television commercial where the referee makes an announcement that he blew the call and that he would for "no good reason" penalize the other team to even things out. Only the crowd never got the courtesy of the announcement.
The Grizzlies got into penalty trouble less than one minute into the game and from there on the officials made it clear that it was their game, not the teams. Poor judgement, missed calls, phantom calls and even changed calls sucked the life out of the crowd, players, coaches and even the announcers of the game. Everyone went home shaking their heads wondering what the heck happened.
Oh yes, Kamloops won 6-1 and now has a stranglehold on the series which could end tonight if Revelstoke can't battle their demons in dealing with the refereeing situation. You could see the Grizzlies frustration building between the questionable calls against them and their inability to crack the Kamloops defensive wall and put the puck in the net when they had the chance. Kamloops on the other hand, although also frustrated, made good on a few of their chances and pulled away steadily, scoring 2 goals in each period to win the game.
As of this writing (10:15 AM - Friday), the boxscores have not been posted so the amount of penaties and the goal scoring summary is not available. Probably overloaded the KIJHL boxscore program. We can tell you that Kamloops got a natural hat trick from Ryan Bullock and singles from Anthony Collins, Darren Mann and supposedly Lundy Trenaman. It was Justin Giroux who fired the shot that seemed to go off of goaltender Colin Stebner's glove. That call was all part and parcel of one of the most poorly managed games we have seen.
Revelstoke had the parade to the box in the first period while Kamloops seem to take the brunt of the calls in the second. When Kamloops went up 3-0 in the 2nd, Grizzlies coach Brad Fox changed up his goaltenders, substituting Jordan Barry in for Stebner. The Grizzlies seemed to regroup for awhile, scoring one goal on the power play but reverted back to their black hole of frustration when Bullock scored his first goal late in the second period to put Kamloops up 4-1.
With the game seemingly out of reach, the Grizzlies frustration seemed to overflow in the 3rd period and again the boxes were full. At one time Revelstoke had 4 men in the penalty box and Kamloops had 2 resulting in a Storm 5 on 3 power play. One could only feel that the referee was just looking to penalize the players. He blew a number of other calls too like when the puck clearly hit an overhead beam and rebounded back to the ice. Instead of calling the play dead, he let it go, giving Revelstoke a 2 on 1 break when Cody Kightley took a penalty for hauling down the Grizzlie puck carrier. The ensuing power play resulted in Revelstoke's only goal by Brent Madlung. If the right call had been made, the power play doesn't happen and Manfredi keeps his shutout.
The shutout is a mute point. Both coaches were frustrated. In the end Kamloops ended up taking a late time out and replaced goaltender Anthony Manfredi with back-up Brennan Jones with about 3 minutes to go as Revelstoke looked prepared to take their frustrations out on the Storm players. Good move by coach Bryant Perrier.
There was only one fight in the game with Brent Meissinger duking it out with Justin Giroux (I think... gosh I need those box scores). Without knowing the final count, there must have been at least 40 penalty calls during the game. There was very little flow and very little even strength play.
Your guess is as good as mine as to what game 4 will bring tonight. Revelstoke will be fighting for their playoff lives and had better bring their work ethic and a huge dose of discipline. If Kamloops manages to start pulling away in this one it may end up as this weeks version of Friday Night Fights as revenge and a reminder for next season is all that the Grizzlies will have left to compete for.
Having the opportunity to see this series played in both rinks, I would have to say that I was impressed as much with Kamloops ability to adjust their game on the smaller ice surface as I was with Revelstoke and how they played at the Mac Island Sports Centre on an olympic-sized surface. Kamloops was able to block dozens of shots and showed poise and skill in making successful defensive zone transitions, getting themselve out of trouble time after time.
Our 3 stars of the game were:
1) Ryan Bullock - 3 goals
2) Darren Mann - speed, persistence and a goal made him a solid choice
3) Derik Yuskiw - Revelstoke's brightest light- blocked shots, punishing body checks and solid forechecking
In other action:
Fernie takes a 3-0 lead in their series defeating Creston 7-2 in Creston.
In Beaver Valley it was the NiteHawks taking a 2-1 series lead over favoured Nelson with a 4-3 win.
All series resume tonight so get out and cheer your favorite team.
2007-03-08
Kamloops Storm Goes Up 2 -0 in Series
Big Hit By Hanes on Revelstoke Goaltender Sets Tone for Games 3 & 4
For the 2nd night in a row the Revelstoke Grizzlies employed the defensive minded neutral zone trap and again the Kamloops Storm fought through it and came away with a 1 goal win. Now with a 2-0 lead in the series they move to the smaller surface of the Revelstoke arena.
It will be interesting to see if the trap works better on the smaller surface. It should as there is less room for error when coming out of your own zone and a lot more opportunity for the defenders to lay the body on the attackers. Keeping this in mind, the series could get a lot more physical. This will put a lot more emphasis on both team's discipline factor.
Things started to heat up in the physical department when Revelstoke goaltender Jordan Barry rushed to the side boards near the top end of the faceoff circle to play the puck and was hammered by the Storm's Mike Hanes who was also pursuing the puck. When Hanes figured that Barry was going to beat him there he took it upon himself to make Barry fair game and leveled him with a big hit. This got the blood pressure rising on both teams. Barry was down for a minute and continued the game while Hanes got a 5 minute major for charging and a game misconduct.
Which brings up a whole different issue about goaltenders playing the puck away from their net area that we may revisit at a later time. The feeling with some of the people in the crowd was that if a goaltender roams that far, he should be prepared to mix it up. That being said, Hanes made no attempt to play the puck and should have been penalized for interferance. It was a harsh penalty that luckily, the Storm survived.
It was a strange game in the goal scoring department too. Of the 3 goals scored, all were started by turnovers at or near the defensive blueline and a total of only one assist was credited, that being to Lundy Trenaman on the first goal scored by Jassi Sangha.
Brandon Colonna's goal for Revelstoke as off a Kamloops turn over in the 2nd period and Trenaman capitalized in the 3rd period again by picking up a loose puck on a giveaway at the Revelstoke blueline.
The series resumes tonight at 7:30 and game 4 will go tomorrow night at the same time.
In other KIJHL playoff action Fernie went up 2-0 in their series against Creston 2-0 with a 5-3 effort in Fernie on Tuesday night. Also, in a shocker (at least to the rest of the league) Beaver Valley tuned the favored Nelson Maple Leaf's in their own barn with an impressive 3-0 shutout. That series is tied 1-1 and moves to Beaver Valley tonight.
For the 2nd night in a row the Revelstoke Grizzlies employed the defensive minded neutral zone trap and again the Kamloops Storm fought through it and came away with a 1 goal win. Now with a 2-0 lead in the series they move to the smaller surface of the Revelstoke arena.
It will be interesting to see if the trap works better on the smaller surface. It should as there is less room for error when coming out of your own zone and a lot more opportunity for the defenders to lay the body on the attackers. Keeping this in mind, the series could get a lot more physical. This will put a lot more emphasis on both team's discipline factor.
Things started to heat up in the physical department when Revelstoke goaltender Jordan Barry rushed to the side boards near the top end of the faceoff circle to play the puck and was hammered by the Storm's Mike Hanes who was also pursuing the puck. When Hanes figured that Barry was going to beat him there he took it upon himself to make Barry fair game and leveled him with a big hit. This got the blood pressure rising on both teams. Barry was down for a minute and continued the game while Hanes got a 5 minute major for charging and a game misconduct.
Which brings up a whole different issue about goaltenders playing the puck away from their net area that we may revisit at a later time. The feeling with some of the people in the crowd was that if a goaltender roams that far, he should be prepared to mix it up. That being said, Hanes made no attempt to play the puck and should have been penalized for interferance. It was a harsh penalty that luckily, the Storm survived.
It was a strange game in the goal scoring department too. Of the 3 goals scored, all were started by turnovers at or near the defensive blueline and a total of only one assist was credited, that being to Lundy Trenaman on the first goal scored by Jassi Sangha.
Brandon Colonna's goal for Revelstoke as off a Kamloops turn over in the 2nd period and Trenaman capitalized in the 3rd period again by picking up a loose puck on a giveaway at the Revelstoke blueline.
The series resumes tonight at 7:30 and game 4 will go tomorrow night at the same time.
In other KIJHL playoff action Fernie went up 2-0 in their series against Creston 2-0 with a 5-3 effort in Fernie on Tuesday night. Also, in a shocker (at least to the rest of the league) Beaver Valley tuned the favored Nelson Maple Leaf's in their own barn with an impressive 3-0 shutout. That series is tied 1-1 and moves to Beaver Valley tonight.
2007-03-06
Kamloops Storm Pulls one out of the Bag
Grizzlies Frustrated with OT Penalties
The Revelstoke Grizzlies outplayed the Kamloops Storm for most of the game but in the end they did themselves in. Lack of discipline resulted in 2 consecutive penalties in the first OT period and Ryan Bullock notched his 3rd goal of the playoffs to sneak the Storm to a Game 1 win.
The Grizzlies gave the Storm a whole different look on the ice as compared to the Sicamous Eagles who employed an aggressive 2 man forecheck which forced the Kamloops defensemen to hurry their play. Revelstoke for the most part played a neutral zone trap, allowing the Kamloops d-men to carry the puck but also taking the outlet pass away. This resulted in a game with alot of turnovers but very little sustained action in the offensive zones.
When there was pressure, it was the Grizzlies that excelled and Kamloops goaltender Anthony Manfredi was forced to make big saves to keep his team in it.
As much as the 2 consecutive penalties led to their demise, it was a couple of other questionable calls earlier that stirred the Grizzlies frustration.
In the 3rd period, Paul Riddell was sent to the box for hauling down Riley Weatherhead and sent him crashing into the net. A minor melee occurred and referee Cory Halford called coincidental minors on Jacob Young (Kam) and Kurt Torbolm (Rev). Instead of having the faceoff in the Kamloops zone, the faceoff was outside the blueline. Revelstoke gained possesion of the puck and tried a D to D pass that went bad. Darren Mann picked up the loose puck, swooped in on goaltender Colin Stebner and stuffed it in for short-handed goal and a 2-1 lead. The point of contention was why was the faceoff outside the Kamloops zone when it was clear that Riddell forced Weatherhead to dislodge the net? In the end, the ref said that he felt that the Revelstoke defensemen encroched during the melee causing the faceoff to move outside.
Kurt Torbolm, although he played well was victim of a poor judgement call (certainly our opinion) when he flatten Darren Mann at centre ice with what seemed to be a clean check in our opinion. It's a case of David vs Goliath. It doesn't take much for a hit like this to look dirty just because of the sheer size differential. The ref saw the hit as an elbow and threw him into the sin bin for 2 minutes. Kamloops didn't score on this power play but you could see the frustration level of the Grizzlies mounting.
Then, late in the OT period Calib Roy (Rev) led a great rush up the ice that nearly resulted in a score. Instead of getting back into position, Roy decided to get involved with a Kamloops player in front of Manfredi and ended up taking a minor penalty for interference. Then, 25 seconds later, Kurt Torbolm took his 3rd penalty of the game for holding a Kamloops player behind the net creating a 5-3 powerplay. The Storm set it up with Jassi Sangha drawing two defenders to him at the side of the net leaving Ryan Bullock alone in the slot. After missing the mark a couple of times earlier Bullock sent a laser beam to the top corner to finish it off.
It was a lesson in how to deal with frustration. Revelstoke was clearly the best team over the evening. They beat Manfredi an additional four other times only to hear the hollow clank of iron as the posts became Kamloops best friend throughout the contest.
Bullock had a goal and 2 assists. Paul Riddell scored Kamloops first goal and his first goal of the playoffs on a nice powerplay feed from Joel Leonard. The line of Leonard / Sangha / Bullock looked sluggish most of the evening, struggling to get any solid puck position and when they did, they took shots from far out, usually missing the mark.
Austin Goode picked it up substantially from his effort in the Sicamous series. He was a threat all night.
Darren Mann probably had the best effort of the evening, next to Manfredi, scoring his shorthanded goal and generally being a thorn in the sides of the Grizzlies defense as he forechecked relentlessly.
Brent Madlung, Chad Fenner, Scott Karwandy and Riley Weatherhead seemed to be the strength of the Revelstoke forwards with solid defensive performances coming from Calib Roy and big Mason Regier. Colin Stebner was solid in the net and was unlucky not to claim the win.
Game 2 goes Tuesday night back in Kamloops. Both teams need an injection of something. Obviously discipline has to be on the minds of Revelstoke and the Storm needs a serious dose of giddy-up as they appeared sluggish most of the evening.
The game starts at 7:30. If you are in town, come on out a watch the game or listen to us on the internet at www.kijhl.com .
The Revelstoke Grizzlies outplayed the Kamloops Storm for most of the game but in the end they did themselves in. Lack of discipline resulted in 2 consecutive penalties in the first OT period and Ryan Bullock notched his 3rd goal of the playoffs to sneak the Storm to a Game 1 win.
The Grizzlies gave the Storm a whole different look on the ice as compared to the Sicamous Eagles who employed an aggressive 2 man forecheck which forced the Kamloops defensemen to hurry their play. Revelstoke for the most part played a neutral zone trap, allowing the Kamloops d-men to carry the puck but also taking the outlet pass away. This resulted in a game with alot of turnovers but very little sustained action in the offensive zones.
When there was pressure, it was the Grizzlies that excelled and Kamloops goaltender Anthony Manfredi was forced to make big saves to keep his team in it.
As much as the 2 consecutive penalties led to their demise, it was a couple of other questionable calls earlier that stirred the Grizzlies frustration.
In the 3rd period, Paul Riddell was sent to the box for hauling down Riley Weatherhead and sent him crashing into the net. A minor melee occurred and referee Cory Halford called coincidental minors on Jacob Young (Kam) and Kurt Torbolm (Rev). Instead of having the faceoff in the Kamloops zone, the faceoff was outside the blueline. Revelstoke gained possesion of the puck and tried a D to D pass that went bad. Darren Mann picked up the loose puck, swooped in on goaltender Colin Stebner and stuffed it in for short-handed goal and a 2-1 lead. The point of contention was why was the faceoff outside the Kamloops zone when it was clear that Riddell forced Weatherhead to dislodge the net? In the end, the ref said that he felt that the Revelstoke defensemen encroched during the melee causing the faceoff to move outside.
Kurt Torbolm, although he played well was victim of a poor judgement call (certainly our opinion) when he flatten Darren Mann at centre ice with what seemed to be a clean check in our opinion. It's a case of David vs Goliath. It doesn't take much for a hit like this to look dirty just because of the sheer size differential. The ref saw the hit as an elbow and threw him into the sin bin for 2 minutes. Kamloops didn't score on this power play but you could see the frustration level of the Grizzlies mounting.
Then, late in the OT period Calib Roy (Rev) led a great rush up the ice that nearly resulted in a score. Instead of getting back into position, Roy decided to get involved with a Kamloops player in front of Manfredi and ended up taking a minor penalty for interference. Then, 25 seconds later, Kurt Torbolm took his 3rd penalty of the game for holding a Kamloops player behind the net creating a 5-3 powerplay. The Storm set it up with Jassi Sangha drawing two defenders to him at the side of the net leaving Ryan Bullock alone in the slot. After missing the mark a couple of times earlier Bullock sent a laser beam to the top corner to finish it off.
It was a lesson in how to deal with frustration. Revelstoke was clearly the best team over the evening. They beat Manfredi an additional four other times only to hear the hollow clank of iron as the posts became Kamloops best friend throughout the contest.
Bullock had a goal and 2 assists. Paul Riddell scored Kamloops first goal and his first goal of the playoffs on a nice powerplay feed from Joel Leonard. The line of Leonard / Sangha / Bullock looked sluggish most of the evening, struggling to get any solid puck position and when they did, they took shots from far out, usually missing the mark.
Austin Goode picked it up substantially from his effort in the Sicamous series. He was a threat all night.
Darren Mann probably had the best effort of the evening, next to Manfredi, scoring his shorthanded goal and generally being a thorn in the sides of the Grizzlies defense as he forechecked relentlessly.
Brent Madlung, Chad Fenner, Scott Karwandy and Riley Weatherhead seemed to be the strength of the Revelstoke forwards with solid defensive performances coming from Calib Roy and big Mason Regier. Colin Stebner was solid in the net and was unlucky not to claim the win.
Game 2 goes Tuesday night back in Kamloops. Both teams need an injection of something. Obviously discipline has to be on the minds of Revelstoke and the Storm needs a serious dose of giddy-up as they appeared sluggish most of the evening.
The game starts at 7:30. If you are in town, come on out a watch the game or listen to us on the internet at www.kijhl.com .
2007-03-01
Sicamous Eagles Grounded
:Kamloops Storm Blows through to 2nd Round
For 3 straight games on Kamloops ice, the Sicamous Eagles almost pulled one out. For the 2nd time in the series the Storm and the Eagles needed double overtime to settle things and the result was the same.
Austin Goode, coming into the game 0-0-0 in the playoffs snuck off the bench, picked up a big rebound from the the back boards on a shot by Jassi Sangha and popped the series winning goal at 10:44 of the 2nd OT. The final score was 3-2. It's been a tough series for Goode but he came up big when the team needed him most, not unlike many times during the season.
It was a tight checking affair all evening with both Anthony Manfredi and particularly Riley Wall making their share of spectacular saves. Wall stood on his ear time after time to stop point blank Kamloops gunners. Kamloops outshot Sicamous 71 -36.
Sicamous got the upper hand early when Brock Backus showed some hustle by stealing the puck from the 3 Storm players behind the Storm net and set up an opportunistic Jay Stuart for a howitzer over the glove of Manfredi to make the score 1-0.
Anthony Collins popped his second goal of the season on a nice set up by Lundy Trenaman and gritty Tod Kennedy.
There was a melee near the end of the 1st period after Jassi Sangha retaliated on a Sicamous defenseman and took an 2 min. penalty for a hit to the head and an automatic 10 min misconduct. Only 14 seconds into the second period Cody Lockwood blasted a rocket from the blueline on the powerplay and Sicamous took a 2-1 lead.
Again with Wall standing tall in the net and the Sicamous penalty killers showing outstanding discipline the scored stayed 2-1 until late in the 3rd period when Ryan Bullock buried the game tieing goal with 3:13 remaining in the 3rd. Manfredi was called upon late in the game to come up with a few big saves to keep Kamloops in the mix. Wall got involved in a collision in his crease and looked like he hurt his knee. He finished the period in pain and one wondered if he was going to make to the overtime period.
Wall didn't disappoint. The first 10 min overtime solved nothing with Wall and Manfredi looking pretty sharp.
The second overtime seemed to be going Sicamous's way early but Kamloops started coming on when finally Goode got his opportunity to bang home the winner. Sicamous goes home early in the playoffs knowing that they were only a hair away from making an upset in the series twice on Kamloops ice.
A couple of players for Kamloops that had particularly sparkling efforts were Mike Hanes (#2) and Tod Kennedy (#16). Kennedy stepped up to play with 2nd line Collins and Trenaman and Hanes moved up to play forward on the third line. Kennedy got an assist on the first Kamloops goal while Hanes was a wrecking ball, taking on anything he could catch. And he caught alot. Not knowing the official count on hits but I would bet that he had 8 solid hits himself. The kid was like a pitbull on a pant leg. Coach Bryant Perrier and team owner Barry Dewar where both impressed with the play of the two players.
Kamloops will now take on the winner of the Revelstoke - Summerland war. Game 5 goes tonight in Summerland with the series tied at 2. The series opener is not likely to start until Monday or Tuesday of next week.
See you then
For 3 straight games on Kamloops ice, the Sicamous Eagles almost pulled one out. For the 2nd time in the series the Storm and the Eagles needed double overtime to settle things and the result was the same.
Austin Goode, coming into the game 0-0-0 in the playoffs snuck off the bench, picked up a big rebound from the the back boards on a shot by Jassi Sangha and popped the series winning goal at 10:44 of the 2nd OT. The final score was 3-2. It's been a tough series for Goode but he came up big when the team needed him most, not unlike many times during the season.
It was a tight checking affair all evening with both Anthony Manfredi and particularly Riley Wall making their share of spectacular saves. Wall stood on his ear time after time to stop point blank Kamloops gunners. Kamloops outshot Sicamous 71 -36.
Sicamous got the upper hand early when Brock Backus showed some hustle by stealing the puck from the 3 Storm players behind the Storm net and set up an opportunistic Jay Stuart for a howitzer over the glove of Manfredi to make the score 1-0.
Anthony Collins popped his second goal of the season on a nice set up by Lundy Trenaman and gritty Tod Kennedy.
There was a melee near the end of the 1st period after Jassi Sangha retaliated on a Sicamous defenseman and took an 2 min. penalty for a hit to the head and an automatic 10 min misconduct. Only 14 seconds into the second period Cody Lockwood blasted a rocket from the blueline on the powerplay and Sicamous took a 2-1 lead.
Again with Wall standing tall in the net and the Sicamous penalty killers showing outstanding discipline the scored stayed 2-1 until late in the 3rd period when Ryan Bullock buried the game tieing goal with 3:13 remaining in the 3rd. Manfredi was called upon late in the game to come up with a few big saves to keep Kamloops in the mix. Wall got involved in a collision in his crease and looked like he hurt his knee. He finished the period in pain and one wondered if he was going to make to the overtime period.
Wall didn't disappoint. The first 10 min overtime solved nothing with Wall and Manfredi looking pretty sharp.
The second overtime seemed to be going Sicamous's way early but Kamloops started coming on when finally Goode got his opportunity to bang home the winner. Sicamous goes home early in the playoffs knowing that they were only a hair away from making an upset in the series twice on Kamloops ice.
A couple of players for Kamloops that had particularly sparkling efforts were Mike Hanes (#2) and Tod Kennedy (#16). Kennedy stepped up to play with 2nd line Collins and Trenaman and Hanes moved up to play forward on the third line. Kennedy got an assist on the first Kamloops goal while Hanes was a wrecking ball, taking on anything he could catch. And he caught alot. Not knowing the official count on hits but I would bet that he had 8 solid hits himself. The kid was like a pitbull on a pant leg. Coach Bryant Perrier and team owner Barry Dewar where both impressed with the play of the two players.
Kamloops will now take on the winner of the Revelstoke - Summerland war. Game 5 goes tonight in Summerland with the series tied at 2. The series opener is not likely to start until Monday or Tuesday of next week.
See you then
2007-02-28
Kamloops Storm Poised to take Series at Home
Split in Sicamous Leaves Storm up 3-1 on Eagles
After a lack lustre performance on Sunday night in Sicamous, losing 6-3 to the Eagles, the Kamloops Storm upped their standards and got back to their winning ways with a convincing 8-2 thrashing of their opponents on Monday night in KIJHL playoff action.
The Storm, obviously embarrassed by the shelacking they took at the hands of the Eagles took matters into its own hands and showed why they were first in the division during the regular season. Joel Leonard, who has been Kamloops most prolific scorer in the playoffs scored his 6th and 7th goals to lead the charge. As the big line of Leonard, Jassi Sangha and Ryan Bullock accounted for 4 of the 8 goals, it was the 3rd and 4th liners that accounted for 3 of the 8 goals.
Jamie Galbraith, Todd Kennedy and Scott Kirkham supplemented their hard hat style of play with a goal scoring touch that solidified the depth of the team. Coach Bryant Perrier now knows that he's got more scoring depth than just the first two lines.
Speaking of top two lines, the combination of Anthony Collins, Lundy Trenaman and Austin Goode were very quiet on the scoring sheet Monday as they accounted for only one Lundy Trenaman tally. Collins and Trenaman have been pretty steady in this playoff so far but Austin Goode is nowhere to be found. With no goals and no assists, the Storm's Rookie of the Year has been a bit of a disappointment thus far. Perhaps he can find his touch back at home tonight. If not, look for the Kamloops coaching staff to insert someone more deserving of 2nd line status as the playoffs progress. Austin has ridden this roller coaster all season and usually pulls out just when they need him most so look for a strong performance from him tonight.
In other action, Fernie Ghostriders won it's series handily against Columbia Valley 4 games to nil.
Nelson Maple Leafs, leading team in the KIJHL regular season, also turned in a strong performance in eliminating Spokane Braves in 4 straight.
Kimberley has a 3-2 lead on Creston in a high scoring affair.
The Beaver Valley Nitehawks and the Castlegar Rebels are locked in winning 2 games apiece in a series that is expected to go all the way to 7 games.
In Okanagan Shuswap action the Revelstoke Grizzlies and the Summerland Sting are locked in a 2-2 series tie. This could also be a long series as both teams were evenly matched throughout the season series. The winner of this round will take on the winner of Kamloops-Sicamous in the next playoff series.
See you tonight at the game.
After a lack lustre performance on Sunday night in Sicamous, losing 6-3 to the Eagles, the Kamloops Storm upped their standards and got back to their winning ways with a convincing 8-2 thrashing of their opponents on Monday night in KIJHL playoff action.
The Storm, obviously embarrassed by the shelacking they took at the hands of the Eagles took matters into its own hands and showed why they were first in the division during the regular season. Joel Leonard, who has been Kamloops most prolific scorer in the playoffs scored his 6th and 7th goals to lead the charge. As the big line of Leonard, Jassi Sangha and Ryan Bullock accounted for 4 of the 8 goals, it was the 3rd and 4th liners that accounted for 3 of the 8 goals.
Jamie Galbraith, Todd Kennedy and Scott Kirkham supplemented their hard hat style of play with a goal scoring touch that solidified the depth of the team. Coach Bryant Perrier now knows that he's got more scoring depth than just the first two lines.
Speaking of top two lines, the combination of Anthony Collins, Lundy Trenaman and Austin Goode were very quiet on the scoring sheet Monday as they accounted for only one Lundy Trenaman tally. Collins and Trenaman have been pretty steady in this playoff so far but Austin Goode is nowhere to be found. With no goals and no assists, the Storm's Rookie of the Year has been a bit of a disappointment thus far. Perhaps he can find his touch back at home tonight. If not, look for the Kamloops coaching staff to insert someone more deserving of 2nd line status as the playoffs progress. Austin has ridden this roller coaster all season and usually pulls out just when they need him most so look for a strong performance from him tonight.
In other action, Fernie Ghostriders won it's series handily against Columbia Valley 4 games to nil.
Nelson Maple Leafs, leading team in the KIJHL regular season, also turned in a strong performance in eliminating Spokane Braves in 4 straight.
Kimberley has a 3-2 lead on Creston in a high scoring affair.
The Beaver Valley Nitehawks and the Castlegar Rebels are locked in winning 2 games apiece in a series that is expected to go all the way to 7 games.
In Okanagan Shuswap action the Revelstoke Grizzlies and the Summerland Sting are locked in a 2-2 series tie. This could also be a long series as both teams were evenly matched throughout the season series. The winner of this round will take on the winner of Kamloops-Sicamous in the next playoff series.
See you tonight at the game.
2007-02-25
Anthony Collins Grounds the Eagles
Sicamous Now Behind the Eight-Ball
It started to look much the like the night before when the Kamloops Storm had to go into double-overtime to nix the Sicamous Eagles 4-3.
The first period was a quiet, tight checking affair with both teams displaying discipline and tenacity. Aggressive forechecking by both teams, forcing the defensemen to rush their passing created a lot of scrambled play in the neutral zone. Both goaltenders were tested but not to their capacity, with Sicamous starter, Derrick Westlund possibly being tested more than counterpart Anthony Manfredi. It was until the last minute of the period that Joel Leonard broke the ice with the game's first goal. It was the fourth straight goal for Leonard and the Storm.
It was the 2nd period where the game started to take on a familiar flavour and the goals started coming. Sicamous tied it at 1-1 with a goal from Mike Iorio, who again had a strong performance.
Play kind of lulled again, tight checking but near the middle of the period Sicamous started getting into penalty trouble when Kamloops notched 2 power play goals to make the game 3-1.
First it was Jake Young on a nice feed from Anthony Colins and solid work by Lundy Trenaman making it 2-1. Then, less than 3 minutes later, Trenaman put a bulge in the old onion bag for his first playoff marker to make it 3 to 1. Again Collins made the play with the extra helper coming from Jassi Sangha.
In a strange move, I thought, Sicamous made a goaltender change. I don't think that it was the play of Westlund as much as the coach may have felt that the team need a lift so in went Riley Wall. And the coach must have been pleased with what he saw. The team rallied effectively for the rest of the period, scoring 2 goals in a 25 second span to knot the contest once more at 3-3 going into the 3rd. Mike Iorio scored his second of the evening on a power play with 3:21 remaining in the period to close the gap to 3-2. Shortly after, on a CSM (Confused Storm Moment) it was Aaron Buat blasting one in from the high slot, beating Manfredi and tieing the score. Things were still looking awful familiar going into the 3rd period, tied at 3.
The teams played cautiously for the first 7 minutes when Anthony Collins took matters into his own hands. Collins picked up the puck in his own end, did a tight circle, surveyed his options and bolted up the ice. He hit his own blueline in the middle of the ice with speed. Following blocks like a running back in football, he bobbed left, weaved right, eluded a couple of checkers, slid wide around another defender and attacked the net from the left side. With a seemingly effortless flick he flew the puck high over the shoulder of goaltender Wall into the roof of the net, where his momma keeps the cookies. Brilliant. The crowd went nuts. Play of the game.
Five minutes later Collins and Trenaman were at it again setting up David Osborne for a big blast from the blueline that just blew by everyone making the score 5-3. Just over a minute later, Joel Leonard put the game out of reach with his 5th goal in 2 nights to put the Storm up 6-3.
Sicamous was down but not out as they scored their 4th goal immediatly after the centre ice faceoff. Shane Lightfoot, who was kept under closer checking this evening took advantage of another CSM, broke in after getting the puck from Eric Holzschuh and quickly blasted it by a surprised Anthony Manfredi.
In the end, Kamloops showed its superiority on home ice (even though game 2 was played on the NHL rink instead of the Olympic rink). Sicamous mustered up a pretty serious challenge in both games and one wonders if that was the best that they had to offer.
Collins ended up as first star with a 4 point night, 1-3 while Lundy Trenaman was second star with a goal and 2 helpers. Sicamous star Mike Iorio captured 3rd star with a 2 goal performance. Special mention to Joel Leonard who also had 2 goals to complete his 5 goal weekend outburst and Jose Reyes who was relentless in his checking and tenacity for the Eagles.
I guess we will see part of the answer tonight as the series moves to Sicamous for a game 3 and 4 showdown. Kamloops shutout Sicamous 4-0 in the final game of the season last weekend and they hope to continue that habit tonight. The game will be broadcast on the KIJHL website by the Sicamous contingent.
May the Storm be with You!!!
2007-02-23
Eagles Succumb to Storm
Goaltenders Duel takes it to Double OT
It was the first game of the 2007 KIJHL playoffs and the teams did not disappoint.
In a real goaltenders duel between Kamloops Storm's, Anthony Manfredi and Sicamous Eagle's Derrick Westlund and Manfredi took round 1 of the best of 7 series in a 3-2 double overtime win at the Mac Island Sports Complex.
The big gun on the evening was Joel Leonard of the Kamloops Storm who scored all three goals including the OT winner with a deflection on a hard blast by David Osborne.
The game was a see-saw battle, perhaps even a little conservative in the 1st period which ended up scoreless. Both teams were pinning the other in their own zone with an aggressive 2 man forecheck that pressured the defensemen into rushing their play.
Sicamous got on the board first with a hard-working goal late in the 2nd period.
After having to kill a Ryan Bullock penalty that carried over to the 3rd period, Leonard scored his first goal on a nice passing play between him, Jassi Sangha and Bullock. Only 1:26 later the same trio combined again, this time Leonard made a particularly pretty tip in front of the net that total fooled Westund.
The Eagles, not to be out done, scored short handed, a 2 man breakaway no less, on sloppy Kamloops turnover at center ice when Trevor Torbolm came out of the penalty box, putting the Storm in a man-advantage situation. Jay Stuart got the goal from Brock Backus and Cody Lockwood.
The first OT period went scoreless with Kamloops almost putting it away with 1.6 seconds left on the clock on scramble at the side of the Sicamous net.
Sicamous got into penalty trouble early in the 2nd OT with an elbowing call at 2:49. On the ensuing power play, David Osborne got two wacks at it from the blue line, with the second blast deflecting off of a well positioned Leonard and past a helpless Westlund.
The Storm outshot the Eagles 56-35.
Other than Westlund, Sicamous got very good efforts particularly from Shane Lightfoot who seemed to be dangerous all night and 16 year old Curtis Summerfelt who created a number of scoring chances.
Other solid performances from Kamloops were Darren Mann, Lundy Trenaman and Tod Kennedy who's forecheck kept Sicamous off balance all night. Austin Goode and Anthony Collins both could have stolen the show if any of their efforts paid off but when it came to shooting it was like someone melted the bottom of their stick blades as everything they shot appeared to be a bit of a whiff.
Former assistant coach turned defenseman, Justin Giroux was particularly aggressive in the neutral zone trying to pick off passes and made some great plays but one wonders if a on another evening the opposition may be able to take advantage of that and create a number of odd man rushes.
It all goes again 7:30 tonight at the Mac Island Sport Centre only this time it will be on the regulation ice sheet. It could be a very different game. Games 3 and 4 will be in Sicamous Sunday and Monday.
Check out the boxscores on the KIJHL site here.
In other action, the Kimberley Dynamiters edge out the Creston Valley Thunder 5-4, also in overtime.
See you at the rink or catch us on the air.
------------------------------------------------------------
Divisional Awards handed to Key Kamloops Storm Players
A few Okanagan - Shuswap Division awards were handed out prior to the game as Anthony Manfredi garnered both the Division MVP and top Goaltender Award. Jassi Sangha won as Top Scorer and Lundy Trenaman took the Most Sportsmanlike Player.
Congratulations Gentleman, your mammas are proud of you.
It was the first game of the 2007 KIJHL playoffs and the teams did not disappoint.
In a real goaltenders duel between Kamloops Storm's, Anthony Manfredi and Sicamous Eagle's Derrick Westlund and Manfredi took round 1 of the best of 7 series in a 3-2 double overtime win at the Mac Island Sports Complex.
The big gun on the evening was Joel Leonard of the Kamloops Storm who scored all three goals including the OT winner with a deflection on a hard blast by David Osborne.
The game was a see-saw battle, perhaps even a little conservative in the 1st period which ended up scoreless. Both teams were pinning the other in their own zone with an aggressive 2 man forecheck that pressured the defensemen into rushing their play.
Sicamous got on the board first with a hard-working goal late in the 2nd period.
After having to kill a Ryan Bullock penalty that carried over to the 3rd period, Leonard scored his first goal on a nice passing play between him, Jassi Sangha and Bullock. Only 1:26 later the same trio combined again, this time Leonard made a particularly pretty tip in front of the net that total fooled Westund.
The Eagles, not to be out done, scored short handed, a 2 man breakaway no less, on sloppy Kamloops turnover at center ice when Trevor Torbolm came out of the penalty box, putting the Storm in a man-advantage situation. Jay Stuart got the goal from Brock Backus and Cody Lockwood.
The first OT period went scoreless with Kamloops almost putting it away with 1.6 seconds left on the clock on scramble at the side of the Sicamous net.
Sicamous got into penalty trouble early in the 2nd OT with an elbowing call at 2:49. On the ensuing power play, David Osborne got two wacks at it from the blue line, with the second blast deflecting off of a well positioned Leonard and past a helpless Westlund.
The Storm outshot the Eagles 56-35.
Other than Westlund, Sicamous got very good efforts particularly from Shane Lightfoot who seemed to be dangerous all night and 16 year old Curtis Summerfelt who created a number of scoring chances.
Other solid performances from Kamloops were Darren Mann, Lundy Trenaman and Tod Kennedy who's forecheck kept Sicamous off balance all night. Austin Goode and Anthony Collins both could have stolen the show if any of their efforts paid off but when it came to shooting it was like someone melted the bottom of their stick blades as everything they shot appeared to be a bit of a whiff.
Former assistant coach turned defenseman, Justin Giroux was particularly aggressive in the neutral zone trying to pick off passes and made some great plays but one wonders if a on another evening the opposition may be able to take advantage of that and create a number of odd man rushes.
It all goes again 7:30 tonight at the Mac Island Sport Centre only this time it will be on the regulation ice sheet. It could be a very different game. Games 3 and 4 will be in Sicamous Sunday and Monday.
Check out the boxscores on the KIJHL site here.
In other action, the Kimberley Dynamiters edge out the Creston Valley Thunder 5-4, also in overtime.
See you at the rink or catch us on the air.
------------------------------------------------------------
Divisional Awards handed to Key Kamloops Storm Players
A few Okanagan - Shuswap Division awards were handed out prior to the game as Anthony Manfredi garnered both the Division MVP and top Goaltender Award. Jassi Sangha won as Top Scorer and Lundy Trenaman took the Most Sportsmanlike Player.
Congratulations Gentleman, your mammas are proud of you.
2007-02-21
KIJHL - Playoff Preview
Playoffs Start this Week
The start of the second season starts and within less than 2 weeks, 6 teams will be moving on and 6 teams will be packing their bags. It's been a competitive year with the strength of the league emerging from the Neil Murdock division with the likes of Nelson, Beaver Valley, Spokane and Castlegar beating up on the rest of the league. Now they have to play amongst themselves and look to the winner here to take it all if they don't bang the heck out of each other trying to emerge from their division.
Fernie was a clear-cut winner in the Eddie Mountain Division and is not likely to receive a big challenge there unless they self-destruct.
The Kamloops Storm emerged as the strength in the Okanagan - Shuswap division but this was the closest division from top to bottom and very few games were blowouts. Princeton was eliminated in the last week of play.
So, lets take a look at the first round match-ups and see what our predictions are.
Eddy Mountain Division:
A. Fernie vs. Columbia Valley
Columbia Valley has some big kids but they won't be able to handle the speed of Martin Croteau and the rest of the Ghostriders. Fernie's defensive game is superior with almost a full goal against/game better than Columbia Valley. Fernie won the season series convincingly, 6-2.
Look for Fernie to be one of the contenders for the KIJHL title.
Fernie in 4.
B. Kimberley vs. Creston
This one is too close to call. The teams split the season series 4-4. I'm going to go with the team that has the big guns. The scoring power of Kimberley's Jeremy Moccasin-Weasel and Mike Whitequills will be the difference.
Kimberley in 7.
Neil Murdock Division
The rest of the league has got to hope that these guys beat the living ka-ka out of each other over the course of the first couple rounds so that they can be had later on. Keep wishing.
A. Nelson vs. Spokane
Despite Spokane's ability to play sound, technical hockey, Nelson has too much speed and power to let them get in their way. Spokane will be better in the playoff series than they were in the regular season against Nelson but they will probably will be golfing early.
Nelson in 6.
B. Castlegar vs Beaver Valley
Another close one if you look at the standings but Castlegar had their way with Beaver Valley this year winning the season 6-2. Beaver Valley looked like a finely tuned machine when they visited Kamloops in Dec. and look like they could put up a better fight than their record against Castlegar shows.
Beaver Valley in an upset - 7 games
Okanagan-Shuswap Division:
This was the tightest division in the league so upsets are possible, especially in series B.
A. Kamloops vs Sicamous
The teams split their season series where Sicamous dominated in the first half of the season and Kamloops was stronger in the second half. I don't think Sicamous has the guns that Kamloops has with 2 strong scoring lines and the strong goaltending of Manfredi and Brennan.
Look for Kamloops to be a contender for the big prize.
Kamloops in 5.
B. Summerland vs Revelstoke
This could be the best match-up in the entire 1st round of the playoffs. The teams split their regular season meetings. Both teams have tough guys, strong leaders and good goaltending. My feeling is that Revelstoke has the better top-end and with all else being equal, they should be able to steal a game from Summerland and emerge victorious.
Revelstoke in 7.
We are looking forward to the playoffs and hope to update you on the Kamloops-Sicamous series as it unfolds. Let's see how we do in our predictions and we will revisit them at the end of all the first-round series.
Go Storm.
The start of the second season starts and within less than 2 weeks, 6 teams will be moving on and 6 teams will be packing their bags. It's been a competitive year with the strength of the league emerging from the Neil Murdock division with the likes of Nelson, Beaver Valley, Spokane and Castlegar beating up on the rest of the league. Now they have to play amongst themselves and look to the winner here to take it all if they don't bang the heck out of each other trying to emerge from their division.
Fernie was a clear-cut winner in the Eddie Mountain Division and is not likely to receive a big challenge there unless they self-destruct.
The Kamloops Storm emerged as the strength in the Okanagan - Shuswap division but this was the closest division from top to bottom and very few games were blowouts. Princeton was eliminated in the last week of play.
So, lets take a look at the first round match-ups and see what our predictions are.
Eddy Mountain Division:
A. Fernie vs. Columbia Valley
Columbia Valley has some big kids but they won't be able to handle the speed of Martin Croteau and the rest of the Ghostriders. Fernie's defensive game is superior with almost a full goal against/game better than Columbia Valley. Fernie won the season series convincingly, 6-2.
Look for Fernie to be one of the contenders for the KIJHL title.
Fernie in 4.
B. Kimberley vs. Creston
This one is too close to call. The teams split the season series 4-4. I'm going to go with the team that has the big guns. The scoring power of Kimberley's Jeremy Moccasin-Weasel and Mike Whitequills will be the difference.
Kimberley in 7.
Neil Murdock Division
The rest of the league has got to hope that these guys beat the living ka-ka out of each other over the course of the first couple rounds so that they can be had later on. Keep wishing.
A. Nelson vs. Spokane
Despite Spokane's ability to play sound, technical hockey, Nelson has too much speed and power to let them get in their way. Spokane will be better in the playoff series than they were in the regular season against Nelson but they will probably will be golfing early.
Nelson in 6.
B. Castlegar vs Beaver Valley
Another close one if you look at the standings but Castlegar had their way with Beaver Valley this year winning the season 6-2. Beaver Valley looked like a finely tuned machine when they visited Kamloops in Dec. and look like they could put up a better fight than their record against Castlegar shows.
Beaver Valley in an upset - 7 games
Okanagan-Shuswap Division:
This was the tightest division in the league so upsets are possible, especially in series B.
A. Kamloops vs Sicamous
The teams split their season series where Sicamous dominated in the first half of the season and Kamloops was stronger in the second half. I don't think Sicamous has the guns that Kamloops has with 2 strong scoring lines and the strong goaltending of Manfredi and Brennan.
Look for Kamloops to be a contender for the big prize.
Kamloops in 5.
B. Summerland vs Revelstoke
This could be the best match-up in the entire 1st round of the playoffs. The teams split their regular season meetings. Both teams have tough guys, strong leaders and good goaltending. My feeling is that Revelstoke has the better top-end and with all else being equal, they should be able to steal a game from Summerland and emerge victorious.
Revelstoke in 7.
We are looking forward to the playoffs and hope to update you on the Kamloops-Sicamous series as it unfolds. Let's see how we do in our predictions and we will revisit them at the end of all the first-round series.
Go Storm.
2007-02-20
Kamloops Storm Celebrates Performances
Anthony Manfredi Wins Team MVP
With the regular season over and the KIJHL playoffs looming, the Kamloops Storm took a break on Sunday and had their season ending banquet honouring their best in a number of categories. The banquet was held on MacArthur Island at the Press Box Restaurant and was really a packed house. It was great to see all the parents, friends, girlfriends, volunteers, relatives and even the media to share in the festivities with the team.
Anthony Manfredi and his golden glove was the winner of the MVP award. He ended the season with a 23-13 record (3rd among active goaltenders), a .919 Save% ( 1st among active goaltenders) and his 23 wins were 2nd in the league next to Jason Greenwell of the Spokane Braves.
(L-to-R: Ass't Coach - Keith Sedgewick, Rick Wile - NL Radio, Anthony Manfredi-MVP, Head Coach - Bryant Perrier, Ass't Coach/Trainer - Chad Ferris)
With the regular season over and the KIJHL playoffs looming, the Kamloops Storm took a break on Sunday and had their season ending banquet honouring their best in a number of categories. The banquet was held on MacArthur Island at the Press Box Restaurant and was really a packed house. It was great to see all the parents, friends, girlfriends, volunteers, relatives and even the media to share in the festivities with the team.
Anthony Manfredi and his golden glove was the winner of the MVP award. He ended the season with a 23-13 record (3rd among active goaltenders), a .919 Save% ( 1st among active goaltenders) and his 23 wins were 2nd in the league next to Jason Greenwell of the Spokane Braves.(L-to-R: Ass't Coach - Keith Sedgewick, Rick Wile - NL Radio, Anthony Manfredi-MVP, Head Coach - Bryant Perrier, Ass't Coach/Trainer - Chad Ferris)
Other worthy winners of Awards were:
Ryan Bullock - Coaches Award (goal scoring and power play star)
Austin Goode - Rookie of the Year (pretty consistent all year)
Jassi Sangha - Top Scorer (man, did he come on at the end of the year!)
Brennan Jones - Academic Achievement - Nor Kam ( I think his save % and his school marks were about the same... high 80's)
Three Star Award - Anthony Collins (came up big when the team needed him most)
Top Defensman - Cody Kightley ( huge improvement in the 2nd half of the season)
Hard Hat Award - Tod Kennedy ( always there to mix it up)
Unsung Hero - Lundy Trenaman ( heart and soul of the team in the 2nd half of the season)
***************************************
Congratulations to all the winners and the team. Good luck in your playoff run.
Congratulations to Coach Perrier and his staff for assembling a bunch of boys to being a team of young men.
Congratulations to owners Barry and Sandy Dewer for their efforts in making this work.
Thanks to Holly Ferris who did a great job orchestrating the show. (no offense to Austin but maybe Holly should have gotten "rookie of the year")
And thanks to all the volunteers who played a big part in making the season a success.
Thanks to the fans who came out in droves and the sponsors, whose support is much appreciated.
***************************************
Austin Goode - Rookie of the Year (pretty consistent all year)
Jassi Sangha - Top Scorer (man, did he come on at the end of the year!)
Brennan Jones - Academic Achievement - Nor Kam ( I think his save % and his school marks were about the same... high 80's)
Three Star Award - Anthony Collins (came up big when the team needed him most)
Top Defensman - Cody Kightley ( huge improvement in the 2nd half of the season)
Hard Hat Award - Tod Kennedy ( always there to mix it up)
Unsung Hero - Lundy Trenaman ( heart and soul of the team in the 2nd half of the season)
***************************************
Congratulations to all the winners and the team. Good luck in your playoff run.
Congratulations to Coach Perrier and his staff for assembling a bunch of boys to being a team of young men.
Congratulations to owners Barry and Sandy Dewer for their efforts in making this work.
Thanks to Holly Ferris who did a great job orchestrating the show. (no offense to Austin but maybe Holly should have gotten "rookie of the year")
And thanks to all the volunteers who played a big part in making the season a success.
Thanks to the fans who came out in droves and the sponsors, whose support is much appreciated.
***************************************
Unsung Hero Lundy Trenamen with Ass't Coach Chad Ferris, Mrs Owner - Sandy Dewar, Coach Bryant Perrier and Ass't Coach - Keith Sedgewick.
In front - Defenseman Paul Riddle, Hard Hat Award Winner - Tod Kennedy, and an unrecognizable team member - someone please identify!!
Acquiring Good Carma for next season.
Forward Jamie Galbraith rubbing shoulders with hardware winners Lundy Trenaman, Anthony Manfredi and Tod Kennedy outside the Press Box Restaurant after the banquet.
The sit down roast beef dinner was excellent. Visitors to Mac Island will do themselves proud by visiting this quaint restaurant whenever they are in town.
photo credits: Wendy Galbraith
feel free to leave your comments on how you thought the whole team did in their inaugural year in Kamloops.
Kamloops Storm Wins Divisional Title
Playoffs just around the Corner
It's been a great inaugural season for the Kamloops Storm who clinched the Okanagan-Shuswap division title in the KIJHL. It took until the 2nd last game of the season and they did it against the team that was pushing them, the Summerland Sting, with an OT shootout to win 4-3 and solidify 1st place.The next evening the Storm closed out it's season avenging last week's 3-1 loss to Sicamous with a 4-0 shutout over the Eagles in their barn. Paul Riddell was the big scorer with 1 goal and one assist. Paul scored Friday evening too bringing his year total to 3. Brennan Jones gave Anthony Manfredi a rest and was solid between the pipes recording his first shutout of the season.The Storm will now play Sicamous in a 4 out of 7 first round match-up. The series opens Thursday and Friday evening in Kamloops at the Mac Park Centre, start time 7:30pm.The Storm went 13-2 since the Xmas break and look like favorites to emerge from their division.
Check back later this week for a KIJHL playoff preview.
It's been a great inaugural season for the Kamloops Storm who clinched the Okanagan-Shuswap division title in the KIJHL. It took until the 2nd last game of the season and they did it against the team that was pushing them, the Summerland Sting, with an OT shootout to win 4-3 and solidify 1st place.The next evening the Storm closed out it's season avenging last week's 3-1 loss to Sicamous with a 4-0 shutout over the Eagles in their barn. Paul Riddell was the big scorer with 1 goal and one assist. Paul scored Friday evening too bringing his year total to 3. Brennan Jones gave Anthony Manfredi a rest and was solid between the pipes recording his first shutout of the season.The Storm will now play Sicamous in a 4 out of 7 first round match-up. The series opens Thursday and Friday evening in Kamloops at the Mac Park Centre, start time 7:30pm.The Storm went 13-2 since the Xmas break and look like favorites to emerge from their division.
Check back later this week for a KIJHL playoff preview.
2007-01-29
Kamloops Storm has Breakout Weekend
3 Wins and 19 Goals Later... 1st Place
We are trying something new. Click below to see our weekend update on YouTube.com and please send your comments right on the blog (please don't send them to the KIJHL as I am the last to see them). Press the comments button at the bottom of the posting and send. thanx.
Would it be better if it was just audio?
would you rather just read the updates?
Thanks for your participation.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfrdDbZYEQo
written by:Dave O - Kamloops Storm Writter
We are trying something new. Click below to see our weekend update on YouTube.com and please send your comments right on the blog (please don't send them to the KIJHL as I am the last to see them). Press the comments button at the bottom of the posting and send. thanx.
Would it be better if it was just audio?
would you rather just read the updates?
Thanks for your participation.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfrdDbZYEQo
written by:Dave O - Kamloops Storm Writter
2007-01-16
Storm Blows Away Weekend Competion
Posse Slumps in the Saddle while Grizzlies go into Hibernation
Kamloops at Revelstoke - Jan 9, 2007
It was a great week for the Kamloops Storm. After being soundly shut out by the Spokane Braves (3-0) on their last home outing, Kamloops faced the task of a home and home with the Revelstoke Grizzlies who were tinkering with 1st place in the Okanagan-Shuswap division.
First up was a trip to Revelstoke on Jan 9 which saw Kamloops come from behind in the 3rd period on late goals by Austin Goode and Jassi Sangha to squeek out at 4-3 win. Revelstoke had defeated Kamloops twice before Xmas so revenge in the Revelstoke Forum was sweet. Sangha also had a goal in the 2nd period, as did Anthony Collins.
It appears that Kamloops dominated the game with a 60-44 shot differential which left both goaltenders busier than a one armed paper hanger. Kamloops ran into big penalty trouble in the 2nd period taking 6 penalties but held the Grizzlies to one power-play goal and scored a short handed marker (Sangha) to close the gap.
Chance Fenner was in the box late in the game when Collins tied the scored 3-3 and with 1:30 left in the period Sangha popped his second from Lundy Treneman and Joel Leonard to capture the win and earn 1st star status. (see boxscore here)
------------------------------------------------------------
Kamloops vs Princeton - Jan 12, 2007
On Friday night the much improved Princeton Posse were in town taking on the Storm. After a quiet 1st period for both teams Sean Carr of Princeton took advantage of a Sangha hooking call carried over from the 1st period and beat goaltender Anthony Manfredi for the opening goal of the game. Just over a minute later Austin Goode rapped in the tieing goal from Collins and David Osborne.
Later in the 2nd period Ryan Bullock scored his team leading 25th goal on the power play from Paul Riddell and Joel Leonard to put Kamloops ahead to stay. Paul Riddell finished off the scoring in the 3rd period with a tally from Jacob Young and Trevor Torbolm.
David Osborne had a particularly strong game showing both skill and leadership at both ends of the ice, good enough to earn 1st Star honours. Jacob Young also had a strong performance and ended up as 2nd star while Eric Galbraith was Princeton's best player and earned the 3rd star.
Kamloops outshot Princeton 39-30. Goaltenders Anthony Manfredi (Kam) and Tanner Sheridan (Princeton) had strong games with Sheridan coming up with some particularly difficult saves.
(see boxscore here)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The Rematch - Kamloops vs Revelstoke - Jan 14, 2007
The Grizzlies wandered into the Mac Park Sports Centre looking for revenge but in the end it was their lack of discipline that sent them home into hibernation as the Storm slapped them with 6 power play markers and rolled to a 7-2 win.
Revelstoke opened up the scoring just past half way through the 1st period when Vincien Scott took a slick feed from Chance Fenner and wisked the puck past Anthony Manfredi. Then Revelstoke got into penalty trouble and the Storm were all over them.
First, on Cody Inkster's 2nd hooking call of the game, Jassi Sangha popped his first of two goals to tie the game at 1. Then, just 15 seconds later, Brendon Madlung took a holding call and the Storm were back on the PP. It took Austin Goode all of 19 seconds to pop Kamloops second pp tally of the period (from Lundy Treneman and Justin Giroux) to put Kamloops ahead to stay.
Jake Young got Kamloops it's only even strength goal early in the 2nd period on some hard work by Giroux and Todd Kennedy to take a 3-1 lead. Revelstoke battled back with an even strength goal of their own by Madlung. After that Kamloops took advantage of another two power-play opportunities and cashed in on goals by Jassi Sangha and Anthony Collins.
Revelstoke continued its wayward ways and the Storm capitalized on another 2 opportunities in the 3rd period (Austin Goode and Joel Leonard) to round out the scoring.
The game wasn't without it's animosity as there were 4 separate tussles during the game.
Darren Mann showed well against a larger Derek Yuskiw in the 2nd period. Justin Giroux had a great bout with Morgan Bell early in the 3rd. John Spence took on Scott Karwandy in a spirited match where Karwandy ended up on top. Jassi Sangha, who had just about enough after a hit from behind by Tyson Baulkham, lost his cool and pummeled Baulkham on the ice and then fought Brent Meissinger to end his night in the dressing room.
Kamloops was great on the penalty kill and kept Revelstoke frustrated all evening. Anthony Manfredi made all the saves he needed to to post the win.
3 Stars - Joel Leonard (1G-2A), Anthony Collins (1G-2A) and Austin Goode (2G-1A).
Coach Bryant Perrier may be forced to sit out the upcoming game against the Princeton Posse after having his team involved in 4 fights during the game. Coach Brad Fox of Revelstoke will probably be subject to the same fate.
(see boxscores here)
next game: Wed Jan 17 at Princeton (oh no, another rematch!)
written by Dave Ouellette, Kamloops Storm Writer
Kamloops at Revelstoke - Jan 9, 2007
It was a great week for the Kamloops Storm. After being soundly shut out by the Spokane Braves (3-0) on their last home outing, Kamloops faced the task of a home and home with the Revelstoke Grizzlies who were tinkering with 1st place in the Okanagan-Shuswap division.
First up was a trip to Revelstoke on Jan 9 which saw Kamloops come from behind in the 3rd period on late goals by Austin Goode and Jassi Sangha to squeek out at 4-3 win. Revelstoke had defeated Kamloops twice before Xmas so revenge in the Revelstoke Forum was sweet. Sangha also had a goal in the 2nd period, as did Anthony Collins.
It appears that Kamloops dominated the game with a 60-44 shot differential which left both goaltenders busier than a one armed paper hanger. Kamloops ran into big penalty trouble in the 2nd period taking 6 penalties but held the Grizzlies to one power-play goal and scored a short handed marker (Sangha) to close the gap.
Chance Fenner was in the box late in the game when Collins tied the scored 3-3 and with 1:30 left in the period Sangha popped his second from Lundy Treneman and Joel Leonard to capture the win and earn 1st star status. (see boxscore here)
------------------------------------------------------------
Kamloops vs Princeton - Jan 12, 2007
On Friday night the much improved Princeton Posse were in town taking on the Storm. After a quiet 1st period for both teams Sean Carr of Princeton took advantage of a Sangha hooking call carried over from the 1st period and beat goaltender Anthony Manfredi for the opening goal of the game. Just over a minute later Austin Goode rapped in the tieing goal from Collins and David Osborne.
Later in the 2nd period Ryan Bullock scored his team leading 25th goal on the power play from Paul Riddell and Joel Leonard to put Kamloops ahead to stay. Paul Riddell finished off the scoring in the 3rd period with a tally from Jacob Young and Trevor Torbolm.
David Osborne had a particularly strong game showing both skill and leadership at both ends of the ice, good enough to earn 1st Star honours. Jacob Young also had a strong performance and ended up as 2nd star while Eric Galbraith was Princeton's best player and earned the 3rd star.
Kamloops outshot Princeton 39-30. Goaltenders Anthony Manfredi (Kam) and Tanner Sheridan (Princeton) had strong games with Sheridan coming up with some particularly difficult saves.
(see boxscore here)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The Rematch - Kamloops vs Revelstoke - Jan 14, 2007
The Grizzlies wandered into the Mac Park Sports Centre looking for revenge but in the end it was their lack of discipline that sent them home into hibernation as the Storm slapped them with 6 power play markers and rolled to a 7-2 win.
Revelstoke opened up the scoring just past half way through the 1st period when Vincien Scott took a slick feed from Chance Fenner and wisked the puck past Anthony Manfredi. Then Revelstoke got into penalty trouble and the Storm were all over them.
First, on Cody Inkster's 2nd hooking call of the game, Jassi Sangha popped his first of two goals to tie the game at 1. Then, just 15 seconds later, Brendon Madlung took a holding call and the Storm were back on the PP. It took Austin Goode all of 19 seconds to pop Kamloops second pp tally of the period (from Lundy Treneman and Justin Giroux) to put Kamloops ahead to stay.
Jake Young got Kamloops it's only even strength goal early in the 2nd period on some hard work by Giroux and Todd Kennedy to take a 3-1 lead. Revelstoke battled back with an even strength goal of their own by Madlung. After that Kamloops took advantage of another two power-play opportunities and cashed in on goals by Jassi Sangha and Anthony Collins.
Revelstoke continued its wayward ways and the Storm capitalized on another 2 opportunities in the 3rd period (Austin Goode and Joel Leonard) to round out the scoring.
The game wasn't without it's animosity as there were 4 separate tussles during the game.
Darren Mann showed well against a larger Derek Yuskiw in the 2nd period. Justin Giroux had a great bout with Morgan Bell early in the 3rd. John Spence took on Scott Karwandy in a spirited match where Karwandy ended up on top. Jassi Sangha, who had just about enough after a hit from behind by Tyson Baulkham, lost his cool and pummeled Baulkham on the ice and then fought Brent Meissinger to end his night in the dressing room.
Kamloops was great on the penalty kill and kept Revelstoke frustrated all evening. Anthony Manfredi made all the saves he needed to to post the win.
3 Stars - Joel Leonard (1G-2A), Anthony Collins (1G-2A) and Austin Goode (2G-1A).
Coach Bryant Perrier may be forced to sit out the upcoming game against the Princeton Posse after having his team involved in 4 fights during the game. Coach Brad Fox of Revelstoke will probably be subject to the same fate.
(see boxscores here)
next game: Wed Jan 17 at Princeton (oh no, another rematch!)
written by Dave Ouellette, Kamloops Storm Writer
2007-01-07
Braves Weather the Storm
Greenwell is full marks for Shutout
The Kamloops Storm, feisty after their come from behind win on Friday night, came on strong early but fizzled in the end to drop a 3-0 lightly entertaining game on Saturday night at the Mac Island SportPlex. The Storm outshot the Spokane Braves 34 - 21 but just couldn't solve goaltender Jason Greenwell.
Greenwell was called upon to be brilliant in every period and was equal to the task. The Kamloops shooter played right into his strengths, testing him in the bottom corners where the butterfly pad save flashed to save against certain goals. When he wasn't called on to make the pad save, Greenwell covered his angles well and forced the Storm shooter to hit him in the belly.
Spokane looked particularly listless in the first period. They played methodical but without a whole lot of jump. Kamloops seemed to have some carryover zip from the night before and it looked like it could be a long night for Spokane.
Kamloops had 10 powerplay opportunities to Spokane's 5 and were not able to score. The Spokane defense played well in keeping the Kamloops shooters to the outside and sacrificed themselves by blocking shot after shot. The actual shots on net were not indicitive of the play. Kamloops dominated much more than the stats revealed.
In the 3rd period, after killing off a 4 min. minor to Alex Lelwica for spearing, tough guy David Manzo picked up a rebound in front of Manfredi and rifled in Spokane's first and winning goal on the power play. Just over a minute later, Johnny Clark showed flashes of brilliance on the rush, drawing a couple of Kamloops players to himself and finding a wide open Evan Witt who scored with a quick wrister up high over Manfredi's blocker.
Alex Lelwica closed out the scoring with 5:10 remaining when he picked up a rebound on a shot from Brandon Lassiter.
Kamloops sits in the middle of the pack (3rd place) in the Okanagan Shuswap Division and returns to action this Tuesday when the travel to Revelstoke to face the first place Grizzlies.
Next home game and broadcast will be on Friday Jan 12th against division rivals Princeton at 7:30.
DaveO - KamloopsStormWriter
2007-01-06
Thunder feels the Storm
Treneman turns in Season Best Performance
After 2 full weeks off the Kamloops Storm hit the ice Friday night against the Creston Thundercats and for the first 2 periods it wasn't pretty.
After a lacklustre 1st period where both teams showed signs of turkey rust, Brandon Astle of the Thundercats stole a sloppy pass at his own blueline and raced down the ice untouched to deke out a waiting Brennan Jones to score short-handed and take a 1-0 lead.
Shortly after, Kamloops was on another power-play and Justin Giroux let a slapper go from the blueline that beat a solid Wade Waters (Creston goaltender) to tie the score 1-1.
Less than 1 minute later Creston took advantage of their powerplay and Matt Miller was johnny-on-the-spot to rap in a shot close in on Brennan Jones. Sloppy play continued on Kamloops part and with 2:14 left in the 2nd, Graham Telford took advantage of another weak effort at the Creston blueline as he waltzed in untouched on Jones and slipped the puck through his legs to take a solid 3-1 lead going into the 3rd period.
Like many teams that visit the olympic ice at McArthur Island the first time, the 3rd period creeps up on them and they hit the wall. The Storm was clearly the better skating club in the 3rd period and caused Creston to take a series of penalties that proved fatal in the end.
Cody Kightley slapped in his first goal of the season from the blueline on the power play to close the gap to 3-2. Then Lundy Treneman turned on the afterburners.
In a span of 4 minutes and 52 second Treneman scored 3 even strengths goals to pull Kamloops ahead to stay. His first was a rebound from a brilliant effort by Anthony Collins. His second goal, only 2:10 after his first was a nice shot from between the circles on a screened Wade Waters. His 3rd and Kamloops 5th, was again a slick passing play that included Jake Young and Austin Goode. Young probably could have buried it himself but as an unselfish leader he passed it to Treneman for his easiest goal of the night.
Joel Leonard completed the scoring on the power play at 15:49 of the period and Kamloops waltzed away with its 18 win of the season.
3 Stars - Treneman, Leonard and Creston goaltender Wade Waters. Waters was my pick for 1st star going into the 3rd but his team's collapse clouded his brilliant effort between the pipes.
David Osborne and Mike Hanes both had particularly strong games on defence as they laid out a number of crushing hits and were both involved in the offensive part of the game. Osborne ended up with one assist for his efforts.
Tonight the Storm take on Spokane at 7:30 at the Mac Park Sports Centre. See you there.
You can check out the Box Scores here.
Note: again the broadcast was interupted by poor line communication. It's something that we can't do anything about at our end and hopefully the bugs can get ironed out. Thanks to anyone that phoned in to let us know that the broadcast went off air.
After 2 full weeks off the Kamloops Storm hit the ice Friday night against the Creston Thundercats and for the first 2 periods it wasn't pretty.
After a lacklustre 1st period where both teams showed signs of turkey rust, Brandon Astle of the Thundercats stole a sloppy pass at his own blueline and raced down the ice untouched to deke out a waiting Brennan Jones to score short-handed and take a 1-0 lead.
Shortly after, Kamloops was on another power-play and Justin Giroux let a slapper go from the blueline that beat a solid Wade Waters (Creston goaltender) to tie the score 1-1.
Less than 1 minute later Creston took advantage of their powerplay and Matt Miller was johnny-on-the-spot to rap in a shot close in on Brennan Jones. Sloppy play continued on Kamloops part and with 2:14 left in the 2nd, Graham Telford took advantage of another weak effort at the Creston blueline as he waltzed in untouched on Jones and slipped the puck through his legs to take a solid 3-1 lead going into the 3rd period.
Like many teams that visit the olympic ice at McArthur Island the first time, the 3rd period creeps up on them and they hit the wall. The Storm was clearly the better skating club in the 3rd period and caused Creston to take a series of penalties that proved fatal in the end.
Cody Kightley slapped in his first goal of the season from the blueline on the power play to close the gap to 3-2. Then Lundy Treneman turned on the afterburners.
In a span of 4 minutes and 52 second Treneman scored 3 even strengths goals to pull Kamloops ahead to stay. His first was a rebound from a brilliant effort by Anthony Collins. His second goal, only 2:10 after his first was a nice shot from between the circles on a screened Wade Waters. His 3rd and Kamloops 5th, was again a slick passing play that included Jake Young and Austin Goode. Young probably could have buried it himself but as an unselfish leader he passed it to Treneman for his easiest goal of the night.
Joel Leonard completed the scoring on the power play at 15:49 of the period and Kamloops waltzed away with its 18 win of the season.
3 Stars - Treneman, Leonard and Creston goaltender Wade Waters. Waters was my pick for 1st star going into the 3rd but his team's collapse clouded his brilliant effort between the pipes.
David Osborne and Mike Hanes both had particularly strong games on defence as they laid out a number of crushing hits and were both involved in the offensive part of the game. Osborne ended up with one assist for his efforts.
Tonight the Storm take on Spokane at 7:30 at the Mac Park Sports Centre. See you there.
You can check out the Box Scores here.
Note: again the broadcast was interupted by poor line communication. It's something that we can't do anything about at our end and hopefully the bugs can get ironed out. Thanks to anyone that phoned in to let us know that the broadcast went off air.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
