Mar 13, 2022 | Steve McGrail | 292 views
u18 Sting Bow Out of Playoffs vs Top Seed Windsor
The u18 Sting squad were tasked with a David vs Goliath type match up in the first round of playoffs. The 1st vs 8th seed provided some intrigue and lots of sports cliche's but at the end of the day the Sting were overmatched by a better team.
In game 1 in Windsor Friday Night, the Sting came out and pushed the pace but a costly turnover in their own zone, resulted in a Max Fratteroli snipe to put Windsor ahead 1-0 early. The Sting put their work boots on and went to work trying to execute the 1-2-2 checking game plan. The boys did very well and clogged up open ice and prevented Windsor from freewheeling through the neutral zone. The Sting had some power play opportunities but could not solve Spitfires netminder Tre Altiman. The game remained 1-0, and even with the goalie pulled Lambton could not find the back of the net. Windsor claimed the victory 1-0 and pushed Lambton the the brink of elimination.
Goaltender John Chartrand was the star in net for Lambton facing 37 shots. He kept the Sting in it and gave the boys a chance to win. A great team effort by all including our Petrolia Line of AP players Sanderson, Kominek, and Timmington.
In Game 2, Lambton was up against the wall fighting for their playoff lives and came out flat and were on their heels from the start. Falling down 2-0 early, the boys dug a hole that was tough to get out of. Scoring goals proved difficult once again as many chances were stopped, pucks fanned on or shots that missed the net. It wasn't until after being down 4-0 in the 3rd that Lambton finally got on the board. Defenseman Jace McGrail skated the puck in the zone and found AK Alex Akena in the slot who ripped a low wrist shot that was tipped over the goalie's pad by Anthony Tudino to make it 4-1. Penalties stymied momentum and Lambton would lose 4to1 ending their season.
Joe Malinowski started in net and gave up 3 goals on 14 shots. Chartrand replaced him and faced 33 shots the rest of the way.
The boys should be commended on the effort and dedication they put forth all season long. It got off to a rocky start but the waters soon smoothed and the boys were heading in the right direction competing hard and winning some games. While this may be the end of Minor Hockey for some of these players, you will be sure to see many of them make the jump to Junior hockey somewhere in SW Ontario next season and beyond. Whatever path you take, we wish you all the best.
Thank you parents for supporting your player and team. It was a great group of boys and families to be associated with.
All the best to you all in the future.