"Last One to Score Wins" in Major Midgets' Game against Hamilton
Despite an energetic start for Chad Smalley's Major Midget crew, the Hamilton Reps scored first with a fluky one against JP Trudell to go ahead 1-0. Jesse DeGroote had a slapshot blocked at the point but did a good job recovering in time to chase down and interfere with the Hamilton skater.
DeGroote also made a nice play on a two on one, laying down to block the pass and then watching as Ryan Watson took over to send the puck the length of the ice. Defenseman Darren Kerr was solid on a first period penalty kill containing players in the corner, poking passes out of harm's way, and icing the puck. Brent Kipfer went down to block a shot, and paid the price, but was back on the ice next shift.
Shane O'Brien evened the score midway through the period with help from Jerry Ennett. The second period was devoted mostly to penalties. Despite getting six minors to the Lakers four, Hamilton did manage a nice goal to go ahead 2-1. Both teams got back to hockey in the third period, with only two minors apiece. Jesse DeGroote sparked the 2-2 goal by rushing down the left side, making a great move at the blueline to gain the zone, and then dropping the puck to Ryan Watson who blew one past the goalie.
Fans were looking forward to overtime but then with 20 seconds left to play the Reps' Captain received a five minute major for cross-checking. Seven seconds was all the time the Lakers' powerplay needed. Eli Adair let the low hard slapper go from the blueline, Jerry Ennett tipped it - game over! Final score 3-2 Lakers!
