The Mazda Peewee A Chiefs kicked off the new minor hockey year in Nanaimo last Saturday against the Clippers. Although the Chiefs had their share of scoring opportunities, the two-week layoff showed as the Chiefs fell 5-0.
"Rink rust" was apparent as the Chiefs were unable to find the handle on the puck and failed to capitalize on their chances. Coach Orval stated, “The effort and structure was there but we could not pull the trigger.”
Last Sunday the Chiefs hosted Powell River and, shaking off the rust from the day before, came out hard to lead 1-0. Powell River came back to tie and the game was on.
No side could get ahead by more than a goal; the back and forth game entertained the crowd. The score was tied 4-4 into the third and then Powell River managed to sneak in two quick goals which carried them to a 6-4 win.
“This was the scoring touch that the Chiefs were looking for. Now we just need to learn how to close out these close games,” coach Orval noted.
The Chiefs next home game is Sunday, Jan. 20 at 1 p.m. in Sports Centre #1 against Saanich.
– Mazda Peewee Chiefs