Falling behind 3-0 in the first 10 minutes to any team in this league is devastating, nevermind when it's the defending league and National Champions. A bad break and bounce resulted in Pembina Valley's first goal, which was quickly followed up by 2 very skilled deflection goals on shots from the point. The Ice players were stunned at first, but refused to feel sorry for themselves and tried to claw their way back in the game. The rest of the first period was much better, as both teams traded chances but no more goals were scored. The Hawks outshot the Ice 14-6 in the first frame. At intermission the team spoke of patience and looked to build on their play in the second half of the first period. The Ice came out strong and put together one of their best periods of the season, resulting in a hard-working goal by Emily Barber, who scored off of a rebound. Barber's new linemates Elizabeth Carter and Madison Neapew both assisted on the goal. Pembina Valley pushed back but goaltender Michelle Kerdes stood strong in next for the Ice. The second period ended with the Ice trailing 3-1, but confidence was high. The Ice continued their strong play in the third, but PV flexed their muscles and pushed to the stretch their lead. On a late powerplay, PV found a way to beat Kerdes, and seemed to end the Ice attempt for a comeback. The Ice seemed unsettled after the goal for a few shifts, but nobody was ready to submit to defeat just yet. Immediately following a timeout, that seemed to settled the nerves a bit, the Barber, Neapew, Carter line struck again, as Carter scored on a breakaway to bring the Ice back to within 2 goals again. Spirits on the bench shot sky high and a chance to get back in this game reappeared. However, Pembina Valley once again proved why they will be favorites this year too, as they replied on the next shift with a goal to seal the deal at 5-2.
Another score line that doesn't flatter this team, but one that also doesn't tell the whole story. After falling behind 3-0 early, the Ice battled a very tough team to a 2-2 tie the rest of the way. The team did not have any excuses, they simply know where they need to improve in order to start winning games. A 0-2 start is not acceptable, but as the team makes small steps to improve each and every day, tasting victory will not be too far around the corner.
In other team news, the players were asked to vote for their team Captains, and the coaching staff was proud to announce the following:
Captain: Melissa Blaine
Assistant Captains: Michelle Anderson, Chantel Olson, Emily Barber, and Ashley Kubic
The team will have 2 assistant captains on each colour of jersey.
~Coach
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