Taking a 2-game series lead into Minden, the boys were looking to finish the series Friday night.
Coach Jason said all extra curricular activities were off limits at the motel until the series had been decided. That meant no using the motel pool, no rock climbing behind the motel, no tennis in the indoor courts, and even the Mom’s were forbidden to use the complimentary tanning beds and spa amenities. All focus was to be on the task at hand.
The team out-worked their opponent most of the game with a bit of a hiccup at the end of the 2nd period. With a 2-1 lead heading into the 3rd thanks to goals by Jordan and Chet, Listowel skated like it was the 1st period. Hard fought battles for the puck continued to go in Listowel’s favour, and at the end of the 3rd, Listowel ended up on top winning 5-2. Chet rounded out a hat trick, and Carter Servais made sure to add 1 as well. Benny, Smitty, Camden, and Owen did their best to work harder to try and fill a tiny bit of the hole with Maddox not being in the line up. Carter Coates, Tayttum and Colin continue to push forwards outside to try and make Josh’s job just a bit easier, and are taking away more opportunities in the neutral zone as well. Josh never seems to let his guard down, and plays with an uncanny sense of calmness that he must get from his Mom. Carter Coombs presence never goes unnoticed and his determination seems to get more focused with every game.
After taking care of Kincardine in 4 games, and then Penetang in 3, Listowel faces Simcoe in the OMHA All-Ontario Finals. Simcoe has had a very similar road to get to this point by sweeping Ayr and Aylmer, and then taking 4 games to put Lambeth out of the mix.
The past meetings of these 2 teams, and the tournaments both have won up until now, are as important to the next series outcome as it is for one man to feel how close a shave another man can get with a particular razor. All that matters is what lies ahead, and anyone who cheers either team on will no doubt be hoping for lots to cheer about.
Good luck in the finals Listowel Atom Reps.
Your Team Reporter - Dean Williams