The opening round of the playoffs had the playing well of late Chatham Kent Cyclones in town to face the Lambton Jr Sting Major Peewee AAA’s who were hoping the long layoff would recharge the batteries and see a return to early season form.
The Cyclones would take the early lead on a shot from the high slot that Lambton goaler wishes he could have back. The Sting almost answered back on their next shot which was tipped twice but unfortunately hit iron and not mesh. The Cyclones would take a 2 – 0 lead over the disorganized Sting while on the power play at the half way mark of the first. The long layoff rust really showed as Chatham went up 3 – 0 with 2 minutes to go in the 1st. At this time, as an attempt to wake the team up a goaltender change was made. This seemed to spark the Lambton boys as a power play tally was notched with Tristan Haagsma passing to Lucas Knowles who fed Dante Fuoco. The period ended on a high note for the Sting but they were still down by a score of 3 – 1.
The Lambton squad would cut the deficit to 1 as Lucas Knowles this time set up Josh Vale on the cross ice pass that Josh deftly deflected home. The tying goal this time had Lucas as the beneficiary of a nice saucer pass from Joey Ferrera. The second ended with the teams tied at 3’s as the Sting had clawed their way back from a 3 goal hole with 3 unanswered markers.
The Sting were short handed to start the 3rd period but this did not deter the boys. The 2nd period momentum swing continued as a shorty was scored as Lucas Knowles went coast to coast and tucked it in on the wrap around effort. The deal was sealed as the Sting added an empty netter as Lucas unselfishly passed to Dante Fuoco for the tap in. The game ended 5 – 3 Sting and had the boys back in the win category. The team showed good heart and determination in coming back to earn the victory. Well done fellas!