The Midget AE’s offense finally exploded has they scored 6 goals in 2 periods on route to a 6-1 victory over Goderich.
The game started as most have in the past with the hometown Cycs fore-checking hard and controlling the majority of the play. Their effort created several scoring chances in the 1st period but as in the past errant shots and bad bounces led to the opposition getting the on the board first. Down 1-0 heading into the 2nd period, the team looked for offensive help, and up stepped Vince McNichol. McNichol tallied 3 times in the 2nd period, the 1st on a shot from a sharp angle, the 2nd on a nice deke and the 3rd, a power-play goal, on a great feed from Jackson Martin (picking up assists Daviau, Hollinger, Alexander, Martin). The 2nd period burst seemed to spark the Cycs as just 8 seconds into the 3rd Martin tallied the teams 4th goal on another great pass from McNichol. The barrage of goals seemed to frustrate the Sailors as they racked up several 3rd period penalties, which led to 2 Cyclone power-play goals. The 1st a tip in by Jason Hollinger on another pass from, you guessed it, McNichol (Alexander also drew an assist). The 2nd which would be their 6th and final goal was scored by Michael Lockie who tucked home a rebound (assist Martin). It should be noted that despite the offense burst the defensive core played an impressive game. Their great gap control and puck movement created many neutral ice turnovers which resulted in odd man rushes and constant offensive zone pressure.
The 6 goal in 2 period explosion was by far the most offense the team has shown to date. Manager Larry Gordon commented “it’s about time the bounces starting going our way”, “these kids are working hard and it’s nice to see them finally rewarded for their efforts”. The team is back in action Sunday night @ 8:30 when Wallace is in town.