I realize that a lot of you have bookmarked this site in order to catch up on happenings and game day goings on. Therefore, I decided to make you all aware that The Nitehawks Nest has moved in its entirety to a new location that adds more functionality and seamless integration of the key aspects that I was requiring. I apologize to those that were ultimately familiar with this site, and beg you to please contact me if you have any issues with the new site at all.
KevD
@BVNitehawks
http://nitehawksnest.wordpress.com
bvnhawks@live.ca
Sunday 7 October 2012
Tuesday 25 September 2012
Breaking News!!!
As of 5pm, this correspondent was informed of the return of a key power forward from the league winning team of last year.
Dallas Calvin, who racked up 77 points(31G, 46A) in 41 games on route to a KIJHL Championship, has left the world of baseball and once more returned to hockey!
I wasn't able to speak with him at the time of this posting, but was able to talk with his mother, Lisa (MommaCal) Calvin. When asked, she re-iterated what Dallas had told her:
"Baseball is fun to play when it's not hockey season. I don't HAVE to play ball, but I can't NOT play hockey!"
It is not known whether he will playing this weekend against Nelson, but the 18-year-old veteran is back in a Nitehawk jersey once again.
More to come when updates are available!!!
UPDATE: It has also been brought to my attention that Dan Holland has left to play Jr. A in Massachusetts. Holland had 2G/2A in the 4 games he had played for BV. Good luck in the future Dan!!
Sunday 23 September 2012
Postgame: Rebels - 1 Nitehawks - 5
In the second of three home and homes to start the 2012/13 KIJHL season for the Nitehawks, BV faced-off against its arch-rival, Castlegar Rebels. To me, this was going to be the measuring stick in which to determine the potential outcome for the year. After watching the pains the boys were having in the pre-season, and the first 2 games of the regular season, I knew it was only going to be a matter of time before they started to get more familiar with each and comfortable on the ice. This weekend, we got a glimpse of what could be!
Friday, at the Complex in Castlegar, BV played very well despite the completely lopsided shot count and gutted out a 3-3 tie in a phenomenal game that saw CG up 3-1 early in the third thanks to 2 quick goals. BV fought back with goals by Maloski(PP) and Perez, while Zach Perehudoff was the star of the game(in spirit) saving 35 of 38 quality shots from Rebel skaters. After two periods of overtime, this game just couldnt decide a winner and ended in a stalemate.
Tonights game was a complete reversal as BV took the play to Castlegar most of the night. They started early on a solo effort from Dan Holland just seconds after exiting the penalty box. Then the Eddie Show began! Walker Sidoni was sidelined for tonights game due to a mandatory suspension for the major penalty he received last night on a hard hit to Mingus. In his place, Danny Vlanich was moved from forward to defense, where he played last year with the Langley Rivermen, and Ryan Edwards, coming off the injured list, filled the vacant forward position. It was Edwards first game back on skates since the pre-season game against Selkirk, and he made himself known!
Five minutes into period 1, and already up by one, CG took a roughing penalty and Edwards took just 7 seconds to respond giving BV a 2-0 lead they would never relinquish. Castlegar would respond before the periods end but it would be the only time Perehudoff would allow a puck past him!!
Riley Brandt added to the lead in the second with a beauty from Brandon Butlin and Holland. Kurt Black(PP) and Edwards put the game away with goals in the third as Rebel fans were rife with discontent regarding the inept officiating.
Yes, I actually agree with them. Sure the calls favoured BV for the most part, meaning we capitalized on our chances, and given the way the Hawks were outskating the Rebels, most of those were legit warranted calls. What still gets my gall up, and those of the fans, are the blatant MISSED calls that lead to a retaliation that in turn IS called, essentially rewarding the offending team. Tonights game was no different, and given the officials track record, it was no surprise. Lets just say, he did nothing to change the views of the public while he wears those stripes. Just call it fair and as you see it! Is it really THAT hard?? Maybe it is.....
After being shut off the star sheet in Castlegar (no surprise) even though he had a stellar night, Perehudoff got the nod for top star tonight in BV!!
Game Stars:
BV - Zach Perehudoff - 32/33
BV - Kurt Black - 1G
BV - Dan Holland - 1G/1A
Next up for BV is on Friday, Sept. 28 in BV and Saturday in Nelson in their third home and home this early season. I, unfortunately, wont be able to make either game due to scheduled holidays but will be cheering from Kelowna!!
Friday, at the Complex in Castlegar, BV played very well despite the completely lopsided shot count and gutted out a 3-3 tie in a phenomenal game that saw CG up 3-1 early in the third thanks to 2 quick goals. BV fought back with goals by Maloski(PP) and Perez, while Zach Perehudoff was the star of the game(in spirit) saving 35 of 38 quality shots from Rebel skaters. After two periods of overtime, this game just couldnt decide a winner and ended in a stalemate.
Tonights game was a complete reversal as BV took the play to Castlegar most of the night. They started early on a solo effort from Dan Holland just seconds after exiting the penalty box. Then the Eddie Show began! Walker Sidoni was sidelined for tonights game due to a mandatory suspension for the major penalty he received last night on a hard hit to Mingus. In his place, Danny Vlanich was moved from forward to defense, where he played last year with the Langley Rivermen, and Ryan Edwards, coming off the injured list, filled the vacant forward position. It was Edwards first game back on skates since the pre-season game against Selkirk, and he made himself known!
Five minutes into period 1, and already up by one, CG took a roughing penalty and Edwards took just 7 seconds to respond giving BV a 2-0 lead they would never relinquish. Castlegar would respond before the periods end but it would be the only time Perehudoff would allow a puck past him!!
Riley Brandt added to the lead in the second with a beauty from Brandon Butlin and Holland. Kurt Black(PP) and Edwards put the game away with goals in the third as Rebel fans were rife with discontent regarding the inept officiating.
Yes, I actually agree with them. Sure the calls favoured BV for the most part, meaning we capitalized on our chances, and given the way the Hawks were outskating the Rebels, most of those were legit warranted calls. What still gets my gall up, and those of the fans, are the blatant MISSED calls that lead to a retaliation that in turn IS called, essentially rewarding the offending team. Tonights game was no different, and given the officials track record, it was no surprise. Lets just say, he did nothing to change the views of the public while he wears those stripes. Just call it fair and as you see it! Is it really THAT hard?? Maybe it is.....
After being shut off the star sheet in Castlegar (no surprise) even though he had a stellar night, Perehudoff got the nod for top star tonight in BV!!
Game Stars:
BV - Zach Perehudoff - 32/33
BV - Kurt Black - 1G
BV - Dan Holland - 1G/1A
Next up for BV is on Friday, Sept. 28 in BV and Saturday in Nelson in their third home and home this early season. I, unfortunately, wont be able to make either game due to scheduled holidays but will be cheering from Kelowna!!
Saturday 15 September 2012
Heartbreak at Home: Bruins 3 - Nitehawks 2 (OT)
After a tentative first period in Grand Forks, the Nitehawks stepped up with 2 in the 2nd and another 3 in the third to take a 5-0 win in Grand Forks. But that was last night.....
Tonight was a different story! After spending almost the entire opening period with the visitors on their heels and the Bruin goalie seeing more rubber than an 8 lane highway, Grand Forks got a lucky bounce and silenced the Beaver Valley crowd with more than 3 minutes to go before the break. BV finally broke the steel wall, also know as Robert Dunsmuir. Brandon Butlin on the pp, and Luke Reimer would give BV the 2-1 lead heading into a pivotal 3rd. The chink in the rookie goalies armour seemed to mend between the two periods as he was once again unsolvable, while GF made their one good opportunity count very late to tie the game and send it to OT. Here is where it all unravels.... a brutal holding the stick call in OT gave GF the power play and they made no mistake for their first win of the season.
Granted, its not playoffs, but why would you call a weak penalty like that in OT after letting so much go during regulation??
Regardless of the outcome, it became blatantly evident that this year, Grand Forks has put together a team that may not be the proverbial "door mat of the division" that they have been known for in years past. I don't consider it an embarrassment to have lost this game at all, although one can aptly discern that this game infact could have been "stolen" by Dunsmuir. If that indeed was the case, only time will tell. BV plays the Bruins 3 times throughout October, we will decide then.
Next game for BV is Friday, Sept 21 in Castlegar, and then on Saturday, Sept 22 at home, again vs Castlegar.
Also I would like to pay mention to Am Fords Ride and Drive Event. On Saturday, Sept 22, come on down to AM Ford and test drive a new Ford car or Truck between 9:30am and 4pm. Every test drive can earn $20 for our very own Beaver Valley Nitehawks!! So come on out and support your local team!!
Tonight was a different story! After spending almost the entire opening period with the visitors on their heels and the Bruin goalie seeing more rubber than an 8 lane highway, Grand Forks got a lucky bounce and silenced the Beaver Valley crowd with more than 3 minutes to go before the break. BV finally broke the steel wall, also know as Robert Dunsmuir. Brandon Butlin on the pp, and Luke Reimer would give BV the 2-1 lead heading into a pivotal 3rd. The chink in the rookie goalies armour seemed to mend between the two periods as he was once again unsolvable, while GF made their one good opportunity count very late to tie the game and send it to OT. Here is where it all unravels.... a brutal holding the stick call in OT gave GF the power play and they made no mistake for their first win of the season.
Granted, its not playoffs, but why would you call a weak penalty like that in OT after letting so much go during regulation??
Regardless of the outcome, it became blatantly evident that this year, Grand Forks has put together a team that may not be the proverbial "door mat of the division" that they have been known for in years past. I don't consider it an embarrassment to have lost this game at all, although one can aptly discern that this game infact could have been "stolen" by Dunsmuir. If that indeed was the case, only time will tell. BV plays the Bruins 3 times throughout October, we will decide then.
Next game for BV is Friday, Sept 21 in Castlegar, and then on Saturday, Sept 22 at home, again vs Castlegar.
Also I would like to pay mention to Am Fords Ride and Drive Event. On Saturday, Sept 22, come on down to AM Ford and test drive a new Ford car or Truck between 9:30am and 4pm. Every test drive can earn $20 for our very own Beaver Valley Nitehawks!! So come on out and support your local team!!
Tuesday 11 September 2012
Exhibition Winds Down
Tonight marks the final game of the 2012/13 Exhibition campaign for the Beaver Valley Nitehawks. Creston Valley is the next test for a green Hawks squad, with the game going tonight at 7:30pm PST in the Johnny Bucyk Arena in Creston.
After a promising start against Nelson, the Hawks have struggled to gel as a team. Having an almost completely new team this year has been frustrating for coaches, but as the days rolled on and changes were made, things are starting to look up! 19 players are so far signed as of last night, and with the addition of Danny Holland out of the Smokies camp, brings more age and experience back into a very young and inexperienced team thus far.
BV's last game against Selkirk was a bit more of a shock than most expected. In past, Selkirk has not had the best of teams despite having the advantage of age, but this year, their coaches have put together a solid core that surprised us all!!
Looking Forward!
In future Nest reports, we are going to be including some interviews with Hawks Alumnus along with their career profiles, so stay tuned as we iron out the details and gather some intel. Yes, "dirty bits" are welcome should you have any on past Nitehawks. We are also on the hunt for pictures from our 5 previous KIJHL Championship teams (97,99,01,03,04), so if anyone has any of those, they can be forwarded along to me at the address below.
contact email: bvnhawks@live.com
After a promising start against Nelson, the Hawks have struggled to gel as a team. Having an almost completely new team this year has been frustrating for coaches, but as the days rolled on and changes were made, things are starting to look up! 19 players are so far signed as of last night, and with the addition of Danny Holland out of the Smokies camp, brings more age and experience back into a very young and inexperienced team thus far.
BV's last game against Selkirk was a bit more of a shock than most expected. In past, Selkirk has not had the best of teams despite having the advantage of age, but this year, their coaches have put together a solid core that surprised us all!!
Looking Forward!
In future Nest reports, we are going to be including some interviews with Hawks Alumnus along with their career profiles, so stay tuned as we iron out the details and gather some intel. Yes, "dirty bits" are welcome should you have any on past Nitehawks. We are also on the hunt for pictures from our 5 previous KIJHL Championship teams (97,99,01,03,04), so if anyone has any of those, they can be forwarded along to me at the address below.
contact email: bvnhawks@live.com
Sunday 9 September 2012
Hawks Humbled by Saints
After back-to-back 4-2 losses to Castlegar, and playing their third game in three nights, it didnt take a rocket scientist to predict the outcome from Sunday evenings tilt between Beaver Valley and the Selkirk Saints.
Although Selkirk boasts an almost completely new roster, their age and experience gave them a huge edge in play throughout the game. With 9 of the 16 confirmed signees to BV being rookies themselves, they were hard pressed to gain much headway even with the help of coaches Jeremy Cominotto and Kevin Limbert lacing up to take the ice.
The game started out with both teams scoring within the first 1:30, but Selkirk would take leads of 3-1 and 6-2 after 40 minutes. The third didnt fair any better as tempers started to flare regardless of the friendly nature the game was supposed to follow, ending with several players removed in the final minutes and Selkirk finishing with an 8-2 win.
I had a chance to catch up with Saints forward Mason Spear, you can catch the audio here. Spear spent 3 seasons with the Nitehawks but had short stints in both Kimberley and Fernie. Last year Mason racked up 21 goals and 28 assists over 42 regular season games with the Hawks in preparation for their KIJHL title run where he put up 16 points in 17 games. Good Luck in the future Mase!!
Beaver Valley has one more exhibition game on Tuesday in Creston before starting their regular season campaign on Friday in Grand Forks.
The game started out with both teams scoring within the first 1:30, but Selkirk would take leads of 3-1 and 6-2 after 40 minutes. The third didnt fair any better as tempers started to flare regardless of the friendly nature the game was supposed to follow, ending with several players removed in the final minutes and Selkirk finishing with an 8-2 win.
I had a chance to catch up with Saints forward Mason Spear, you can catch the audio here. Spear spent 3 seasons with the Nitehawks but had short stints in both Kimberley and Fernie. Last year Mason racked up 21 goals and 28 assists over 42 regular season games with the Hawks in preparation for their KIJHL title run where he put up 16 points in 17 games. Good Luck in the future Mase!!
Beaver Valley has one more exhibition game on Tuesday in Creston before starting their regular season campaign on Friday in Grand Forks.
Friday 7 September 2012
Exhibition Speedbump
After 2 close games between BV and Nelson, the Castlegar Rebels strode into BVA and handed the Nitehawks their first taste of defeat.
Stacked with veterans, the Rebels showed poise under duress, and worked their highly offensive checking style effectively enough to keep the Nitehawks on their heels most of the night. Only dressing 5 vets of their own (3 on defense), it was difficult for BV to sustain pressure in the attacking zone. To top it off, Ryan Edwards left the game late in the 2nd period with a reported lower body injury. Rest up Ryan, its only exhibition!
This is the part of the blog where I normally attack the officials, but a summer long marinade of alcohol has mellowed me somewhat, and like I already said...it is after all, ONLY exhibition.
Players of note for tonights game: Brad Gaboury, Riley Brandt, Jordan Bandura (who endured a BRUTAL hit from Dartnell) all played with determination and conviction.
The second half of the home and home goes tomorrow night (Sept 8th) in Castlegar. I wont be able to make the game, so I hope some of you ARE going and will keep me up to speed.
Next home game is on Sunday at 6pm against the Selkirk College Saints, see you there!!
Stacked with veterans, the Rebels showed poise under duress, and worked their highly offensive checking style effectively enough to keep the Nitehawks on their heels most of the night. Only dressing 5 vets of their own (3 on defense), it was difficult for BV to sustain pressure in the attacking zone. To top it off, Ryan Edwards left the game late in the 2nd period with a reported lower body injury. Rest up Ryan, its only exhibition!
This is the part of the blog where I normally attack the officials, but a summer long marinade of alcohol has mellowed me somewhat, and like I already said...it is after all, ONLY exhibition.
Players of note for tonights game: Brad Gaboury, Riley Brandt, Jordan Bandura (who endured a BRUTAL hit from Dartnell) all played with determination and conviction.
The second half of the home and home goes tomorrow night (Sept 8th) in Castlegar. I wont be able to make the game, so I hope some of you ARE going and will keep me up to speed.
Next home game is on Sunday at 6pm against the Selkirk College Saints, see you there!!
Tuesday 4 September 2012
Pre-season Underway!
Beaver Valley started their pre-season exhibition campaign on a positive note, edging past the Nelson Leafs with a 5-4 win. But it didnt come easy....
I dont have hard stats, but several names showed promise for the season to come. With the re-aquiring of d-man Archie McKinnon from the Smokies camp, and having Zach Perehudoff show up out of the blue, it brought our returning members up to 5. Late arrivals to the team in the forms of (F) Connor Maloski, and (G) Dominick Stadnyk, gave promise of a better than average season as well!
One line jumped out at me during this game that could be pure magic...Ryan Edwards, Coleton Dawson, and Connor Maloski. They didnt play the entire game together as Coach Jones had his boys mixing things up throughout the game, but when they did see ice at the same time, the Leaf defense was in for a ride!
Overall, it was an exciting game full of mistakes and wicked plays. I look forward to the rematch game tomorrow evening (Sept 5) here at home in the good ol' BVA!! Maybe, just maybe, I will keep track of what actually is going on this time :)
I dont have hard stats, but several names showed promise for the season to come. With the re-aquiring of d-man Archie McKinnon from the Smokies camp, and having Zach Perehudoff show up out of the blue, it brought our returning members up to 5. Late arrivals to the team in the forms of (F) Connor Maloski, and (G) Dominick Stadnyk, gave promise of a better than average season as well!
One line jumped out at me during this game that could be pure magic...Ryan Edwards, Coleton Dawson, and Connor Maloski. They didnt play the entire game together as Coach Jones had his boys mixing things up throughout the game, but when they did see ice at the same time, the Leaf defense was in for a ride!
Overall, it was an exciting game full of mistakes and wicked plays. I look forward to the rematch game tomorrow evening (Sept 5) here at home in the good ol' BVA!! Maybe, just maybe, I will keep track of what actually is going on this time :)
Thursday 9 August 2012
New Year, Same Story?
Welcome back Nitehawk fans!! I hope that you have all been having a wonderful and hot(now) summer! As you know, the new season is right around the corner.
With a change in season, brings a huge change in your Nitehawks. New players, staff, and even the logo are just a few of the things that have or will be changed during our year of league title defense. I cant get into the staff changes as of yet, and the roster changes will be made known sometime soon as our main camp is slated for the end of August here (see website for dates).
Changes that I CAN go into are regarding the website and what the resulting repercussions mean. Late in the season last year, I was approached by team staff to assist in the updating of the team website. In the months that followed, I took charge and started wholesale changes to the menus and content. It is still a work in progress, so any feedback is completely appreciated. With a more involved role, I can no longer be considered an impartial participant with no-one in which to answer to. That being said, you may notice a slight "taming" of the way in which these game notes are written. I hope that this doesn't deter any of you to continue to read. A VERY tame version of each post will be displayed on the Nitehawks website as well.
More to come when info is available!!.....See you all real soon at the rink!!
With a change in season, brings a huge change in your Nitehawks. New players, staff, and even the logo are just a few of the things that have or will be changed during our year of league title defense. I cant get into the staff changes as of yet, and the roster changes will be made known sometime soon as our main camp is slated for the end of August here (see website for dates).
Changes that I CAN go into are regarding the website and what the resulting repercussions mean. Late in the season last year, I was approached by team staff to assist in the updating of the team website. In the months that followed, I took charge and started wholesale changes to the menus and content. It is still a work in progress, so any feedback is completely appreciated. With a more involved role, I can no longer be considered an impartial participant with no-one in which to answer to. That being said, you may notice a slight "taming" of the way in which these game notes are written. I hope that this doesn't deter any of you to continue to read. A VERY tame version of each post will be displayed on the Nitehawks website as well.
More to come when info is available!!.....See you all real soon at the rink!!
Monday 16 April 2012
Nitehawks and the Cyclone Taylor
This year has been one for the books. I would like to think that I had a small part in making this season successful, but in all reality, the true work was done by the guys!
From opening day to the Bronze medal game, 23 warriors from all parts of North America poured their heart and soul into every game and came out Champions in the eyes and minds of any and all who got the sheer pleasure of watching these boys play.
After capturing the KIJHL title on April 1st, Beaver Valley had to wait almost 2 full weeks before taking the ice for the Cyclone Taylor Cup. Did this layoff have a detrimental effect on the boys? Maybe.
Dallas Calvin lead the way with 2 goals and an assist while Ryan Edwards and Chris Derochie had a goal and 2 assists each over the 4 games played. A slow start and poor officiating didnt allow BV to gain and keep any momentum although they did keep their defense largely intact to keep all the games very close while both goaltenders carried on with the stellar play they have exhibited all season.
With this seasons hockey now over, I hope to keep in touch with players, parents and coaches alike in the long hot lead-up to spring camp.
Once again, I congratulate the TRUE hero's on their remarkable season. Next year will be even better!!
CONGRATS BOYS!!
From opening day to the Bronze medal game, 23 warriors from all parts of North America poured their heart and soul into every game and came out Champions in the eyes and minds of any and all who got the sheer pleasure of watching these boys play.
After capturing the KIJHL title on April 1st, Beaver Valley had to wait almost 2 full weeks before taking the ice for the Cyclone Taylor Cup. Did this layoff have a detrimental effect on the boys? Maybe.
Dallas Calvin lead the way with 2 goals and an assist while Ryan Edwards and Chris Derochie had a goal and 2 assists each over the 4 games played. A slow start and poor officiating didnt allow BV to gain and keep any momentum although they did keep their defense largely intact to keep all the games very close while both goaltenders carried on with the stellar play they have exhibited all season.
With this seasons hockey now over, I hope to keep in touch with players, parents and coaches alike in the long hot lead-up to spring camp.
Once again, I congratulate the TRUE hero's on their remarkable season. Next year will be even better!!
CONGRATS BOYS!!
Sunday 1 April 2012
We Are The Champions!!
(BV wins League Title 4-0)
Game 1: Chiefs 2 - Nitehawks 4
Game 2: Chiefs 1 - Nitehawks 7
Game 3: Nitehawks 5 - Chiefs 4 - OT
Game 4: Nitehawks 4 - Chiefs 2
Riding the coat-tails of Dallas Calvin's game 2 domination, the Beaver Valley Nitehawks flew into Kelowna to face the Chiefs for games 3 and 4 of the KIJHL Final. Once again, Kelowna had no answer for the 6'3" 195lb forward as he mimicked his game 2 output in game 3 including the eventual game-winner in OT giving BV the commanding 3-0 series lead. Which leads us to the ever important, Game 4!
I was lucky enough to be able to watch this game and the first period looked slow to me with not many shots and BV not getting their first shot some 5 or 6 minutes in. The only excitement of the period was the messages I was getting from fans and parents regarding the ineptitude of the official. They compared him, Mike Langin, to our precious officials in the Koots, and even went so far as to say that we are LUCKY to have those that we do!! Regardless, the game would remain scoreless through 20.
Kelowna opened the scoring early in the 2nd when Hikichi waltzed in unmolested and deked everyone. BV would get that back shorthanded two minutes later as Josh Peters would wire a slapper from the point. Merely a short 1:14 later and Craig Martin would get his first of 2 on the powerplay tipping a Calvin point shot to give BV their first lead of the game. Before the period was out, Martin nets his 2nd and BV closes out two periods with a commanding 3-1 lead.
Feed Failure!!...ACK!!....I missed almost 8 minutes of the 3rd as the feed dropped out, but it returned and away we go!! BV appeared to have once again adopted its defensive stance but was caught by Matt Hill with 8 minutes to go and suddenly we have a desperate Kelowna team. Up 3-2, BV held together through a few penalties, including a very late 'too many men' infraction called by the linesman (must have been from Kelowna ). In the last minute, with the Kelowna net empty, Calvin was hauled down heading for the net and was awarded the goal by the ref due to the penalty shot rule. This deflated the Chiefs and elated the Hawks as they counted down the final :23 and brought home the KIJHL title in a 4-game SWEEP!!
Game Stars:
BV - Craig Martin 2G 1A - With 3 points, 'The Phenom' sealed up the playoff scoring title.
KC - Braeden Hikichi 2G - Late reports tell me that he scored both Chief goals.
BV - Zach Perehudoff - Going 10-1 with a 2.46 GAA and a .918 SV% in the playoffs.
Congratulations to the Beaver Valley Nitehawks!!!
Next up........Cyclone Taylor!!...stay tuned :)
Game 1: Chiefs 2 - Nitehawks 4
Game 2: Chiefs 1 - Nitehawks 7
Game 3: Nitehawks 5 - Chiefs 4 - OT
Game 4: Nitehawks 4 - Chiefs 2
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| -photo courtesy of @BhardsXo |
I was lucky enough to be able to watch this game and the first period looked slow to me with not many shots and BV not getting their first shot some 5 or 6 minutes in. The only excitement of the period was the messages I was getting from fans and parents regarding the ineptitude of the official. They compared him, Mike Langin, to our precious officials in the Koots, and even went so far as to say that we are LUCKY to have those that we do!! Regardless, the game would remain scoreless through 20.
Kelowna opened the scoring early in the 2nd when Hikichi waltzed in unmolested and deked everyone. BV would get that back shorthanded two minutes later as Josh Peters would wire a slapper from the point. Merely a short 1:14 later and Craig Martin would get his first of 2 on the powerplay tipping a Calvin point shot to give BV their first lead of the game. Before the period was out, Martin nets his 2nd and BV closes out two periods with a commanding 3-1 lead.
Feed Failure!!...ACK!!....I missed almost 8 minutes of the 3rd as the feed dropped out, but it returned and away we go!! BV appeared to have once again adopted its defensive stance but was caught by Matt Hill with 8 minutes to go and suddenly we have a desperate Kelowna team. Up 3-2, BV held together through a few penalties, including a very late 'too many men' infraction called by the linesman (must have been from Kelowna ). In the last minute, with the Kelowna net empty, Calvin was hauled down heading for the net and was awarded the goal by the ref due to the penalty shot rule. This deflated the Chiefs and elated the Hawks as they counted down the final :23 and brought home the KIJHL title in a 4-game SWEEP!!
Game Stars:
BV - Craig Martin 2G 1A - With 3 points, 'The Phenom' sealed up the playoff scoring title.
KC - Braeden Hikichi 2G - Late reports tell me that he scored both Chief goals.
BV - Zach Perehudoff - Going 10-1 with a 2.46 GAA and a .918 SV% in the playoffs.
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| -photo courtesy of @vbella10 |
Next up........Cyclone Taylor!!...stay tuned :)
Friday 30 March 2012
KIJHL Championship Final Games 1 & 2
(BV leads series 2-0)
Game 1: Chiefs 2 - Nitehawks 4
Game 2: Chiefs 1 - Nitehawks 7
Well, who saw this coming?...we did of course!! After a somewhat slow game 1, the Nitehawks gave the Chiefs something to think about in game 2.
Game 1:
After being idle-ish for the better part of a week, it was evident that both teams had some rust to work out. It took until the 16 minute mark of the first period to finally get a goal from either team. Craig Martin was the recipient of a play that was a thing of beauty. Chris Derochie and Dallas Calvin gained the offensive zone on the power play with Martin in tow. It happened so fast that every one was in awe as Derochie passed to Calvin who one-timed to Martin who, in turn, one-timed it into the back of the net. Both teams had a goal disallowed and BV took that lead into the intermission with spirits high. Second period proved to be faster and more exciting. Kelowna started the frame on the power play and they took no time to make it count. Dane Rupert tipped a TJ Dumonceaux shot from literally 2 feet out, or less, and it went up...FAST slipping in just under the bar. So, tied 1-1, the two teams played catch with the puck for a while until the 7 minute mark when the CCR line kicked in to retake the lead on a goal by Ryan Edwards. Merely :59 later, Tyler Collins buried a Justin Niminiken feed to make it 3-1 BV before the period is 9 minutes old. With :21 left in the period, Rupert gets his 2nd of the game on an absolutely perfect shot that beat Vlanich high glove and then lodged in the net just under the bar. Celebrations were delayed as the ref hadnt made a call until he finally caught up and found the puck. BV took the 3-2 lead into the 3rd that was nothing short of dull. As I said, they needed to grind off some rust and it was clear the first 2 periods took a lot out of both sides as things slowed way down. It wasnt until the last minute with the Kelowna net empty before we finally decided things as Derochie backhanded a clearing pass and aimed just right as it hit the back of the Chiefs net to give BV the 4-2 win and take a 1-0 series advantage.
In his very first shift of the game, Dallas Calvin suffered an injury that lit his fire for the remainder of the game. He caught his hand on of the stanchions and dislocated a finger. If you are the least bit squeemish, I dont recommend you look, but you can view the carnage here.
Game Stars:
BV - Dallas Calvin - 2A
BV - Mike Vlanich - 31/33
KC - Tyler O'Donnell - 30/33
Game 2:
Kelowna came out with a lot more jump for game 2, but so did the Nitehawks. BV held pressure for the first 5 mins until a lost face-off in the Hawks zone lead to Kelowna opening the scoring on a point shot from Tre Mason that beat a very screened Zach Perehudoff. It would turn out to be the only rubber to see the Nitehawks net as BV rattled off 7 unanswered, starting with Dallas Calvin, who with a tonne of patience, out-waited the statue of David before dishing off to Tyler Collins who had nothing but cage to shoot at. Minutes later, 6 to be exact, Calvin again goes to work. This time on the power play, and with a rocket that Sami Salo would give the ol' smiling nod to, gives the Nitehawks the lead they wouldn't relinquish. Nick Perez would get one of his own before the period ended and BV took the 3-1 lead into the second.
Despite the speed of Kelowna, they couldnt manage to crack the Hawks defense. On the rare occasion that they managed to get to the net, Perehudoff was there to stymy them. Just past the mid point of the period, Perez would get his 2nd of the game on the power play and with 6:12 remaining, Jake Lucchini would step out of the box to accept a Ryan Edwards pass and deked out Wilkinson for a 5-1 BV lead after 2. ODonnell was replaced by Wilkinson to start the second, but oddly the change went unnoticed by myself until partway through the 3rd....ooops.
The third was a more even period with BV falling into a defensive position. That didnt stop Calvin. With fire still burning from the owee the night before, he was a dominant figure throughout the majority of the game but really lit it up in the third scoring 2 more goals and making it look...well... easy! BV wins it in a wash, 7-1.
Game Stars:
BV - Dallas Calvin - 3G 2A
BV - Jake Lucchini - 1G 1A
BV - Zach Perehudoff - 24/25
With the hat-trick and 2 assists, Dallas Calvin was once again the prominant figure on the KIJHL websites "Who's Hot in the KI" section and the games first star for the second game in a row. The line of Martin, Derochie , and Edwards (CCR) have combined for 10 points in the 2 games so far. While they have not been the forefront attention getters, they are doing what they have been doing all year, and that's putting points on the board!
I actually have nothing bad to say about either ref so far, as Dasti did his job in game 1 even though that rarely called "closing hand on the puck" in the last minute against BV was a bit ridiculous even if it was a valid penalty. Game 2 say Maniago and while we all cringe, I was impressed with the fact that nothing was called that really shouldnt have been. Ya, he missed a bunch against BV, but the one ref system doesnt allow them to see all the ice all the time. No, I am not sucking up...lol... I call it as I see it, and I saw a decent game.
Games 3 and 4 are in Kelowna on Saturday and Sunday. I'm torn between a sweep and one final game here so I get to see the boys win it. I wont be able to travel due to work commitments so will be wholly dependent on updates from those that ARE going!! Good luck boys, bring home that banner!!
14 wins down, only 2 to go......lets book that trip to CTC 2012!!!
Game 1: Chiefs 2 - Nitehawks 4
Game 2: Chiefs 1 - Nitehawks 7
Well, who saw this coming?...we did of course!! After a somewhat slow game 1, the Nitehawks gave the Chiefs something to think about in game 2.
Game 1:
After being idle-ish for the better part of a week, it was evident that both teams had some rust to work out. It took until the 16 minute mark of the first period to finally get a goal from either team. Craig Martin was the recipient of a play that was a thing of beauty. Chris Derochie and Dallas Calvin gained the offensive zone on the power play with Martin in tow. It happened so fast that every one was in awe as Derochie passed to Calvin who one-timed to Martin who, in turn, one-timed it into the back of the net. Both teams had a goal disallowed and BV took that lead into the intermission with spirits high. Second period proved to be faster and more exciting. Kelowna started the frame on the power play and they took no time to make it count. Dane Rupert tipped a TJ Dumonceaux shot from literally 2 feet out, or less, and it went up...FAST slipping in just under the bar. So, tied 1-1, the two teams played catch with the puck for a while until the 7 minute mark when the CCR line kicked in to retake the lead on a goal by Ryan Edwards. Merely :59 later, Tyler Collins buried a Justin Niminiken feed to make it 3-1 BV before the period is 9 minutes old. With :21 left in the period, Rupert gets his 2nd of the game on an absolutely perfect shot that beat Vlanich high glove and then lodged in the net just under the bar. Celebrations were delayed as the ref hadnt made a call until he finally caught up and found the puck. BV took the 3-2 lead into the 3rd that was nothing short of dull. As I said, they needed to grind off some rust and it was clear the first 2 periods took a lot out of both sides as things slowed way down. It wasnt until the last minute with the Kelowna net empty before we finally decided things as Derochie backhanded a clearing pass and aimed just right as it hit the back of the Chiefs net to give BV the 4-2 win and take a 1-0 series advantage.
In his very first shift of the game, Dallas Calvin suffered an injury that lit his fire for the remainder of the game. He caught his hand on of the stanchions and dislocated a finger. If you are the least bit squeemish, I dont recommend you look, but you can view the carnage here.
Game Stars:
BV - Dallas Calvin - 2A
BV - Mike Vlanich - 31/33
KC - Tyler O'Donnell - 30/33
Game 2:
Kelowna came out with a lot more jump for game 2, but so did the Nitehawks. BV held pressure for the first 5 mins until a lost face-off in the Hawks zone lead to Kelowna opening the scoring on a point shot from Tre Mason that beat a very screened Zach Perehudoff. It would turn out to be the only rubber to see the Nitehawks net as BV rattled off 7 unanswered, starting with Dallas Calvin, who with a tonne of patience, out-waited the statue of David before dishing off to Tyler Collins who had nothing but cage to shoot at. Minutes later, 6 to be exact, Calvin again goes to work. This time on the power play, and with a rocket that Sami Salo would give the ol' smiling nod to, gives the Nitehawks the lead they wouldn't relinquish. Nick Perez would get one of his own before the period ended and BV took the 3-1 lead into the second.
Despite the speed of Kelowna, they couldnt manage to crack the Hawks defense. On the rare occasion that they managed to get to the net, Perehudoff was there to stymy them. Just past the mid point of the period, Perez would get his 2nd of the game on the power play and with 6:12 remaining, Jake Lucchini would step out of the box to accept a Ryan Edwards pass and deked out Wilkinson for a 5-1 BV lead after 2. ODonnell was replaced by Wilkinson to start the second, but oddly the change went unnoticed by myself until partway through the 3rd....ooops.
The third was a more even period with BV falling into a defensive position. That didnt stop Calvin. With fire still burning from the owee the night before, he was a dominant figure throughout the majority of the game but really lit it up in the third scoring 2 more goals and making it look...well... easy! BV wins it in a wash, 7-1.
Game Stars:
BV - Dallas Calvin - 3G 2A
BV - Jake Lucchini - 1G 1A
BV - Zach Perehudoff - 24/25
With the hat-trick and 2 assists, Dallas Calvin was once again the prominant figure on the KIJHL websites "Who's Hot in the KI" section and the games first star for the second game in a row. The line of Martin, Derochie , and Edwards (CCR) have combined for 10 points in the 2 games so far. While they have not been the forefront attention getters, they are doing what they have been doing all year, and that's putting points on the board!
I actually have nothing bad to say about either ref so far, as Dasti did his job in game 1 even though that rarely called "closing hand on the puck" in the last minute against BV was a bit ridiculous even if it was a valid penalty. Game 2 say Maniago and while we all cringe, I was impressed with the fact that nothing was called that really shouldnt have been. Ya, he missed a bunch against BV, but the one ref system doesnt allow them to see all the ice all the time. No, I am not sucking up...lol... I call it as I see it, and I saw a decent game.
Games 3 and 4 are in Kelowna on Saturday and Sunday. I'm torn between a sweep and one final game here so I get to see the boys win it. I wont be able to travel due to work commitments so will be wholly dependent on updates from those that ARE going!! Good luck boys, bring home that banner!!
14 wins down, only 2 to go......lets book that trip to CTC 2012!!!
Sunday 25 March 2012
Kootenay Conference Final: Game 5
(BV wins series 4-1)
Game 1: Ghostriders 2 - Nitehawks 5
Game 2: Ghostriders 6 - Nitehawks 3
Game 3: Nitehawks 4 - Ghostriders 2
Game 4: Nitehawks 2 - Ghostriders 0
Game 5: Ghostriders 2 - Nitehawks 6
After escaping from Fernie with 2 wins on the road due to stellar goaltending from both Zach Perehudoff in game 3, and his first career KIJHL playoff shutout from Mike Vlanich in game 4, the Nitehawks were at home for game 5 with the chance to move off to the league final with a win.
The almost non-existent CCR line finally got a tally at the midpoint of the first period to open the scoring as Martin nets a ppg to give BV the much needed 1-0 lead. It was short lived as Connor McLaughlin made good on the second consecutive shorthanded breakaway given up by BV just minutes later. Derek Lashuk would re-assert that lead on the same power play with a rocket just :08 after Fernie tied it. Hard work and a crushing fore-check lead to a bang-bang play and Calvin buried it to give BV the a 3-1 lead after 1.
The second period was almost a flip-flop of the first as Fernie came out with passion and determination to not let things get away from them. The Nitehawk defense was the difference tonight and it took until 10:44 before Fernie finally snuck (and i mean SNUCK) the puck past Zach. Brendan Burge drove the net and literaly found a hole just big enough to stuff the puck in between Perehudoff and the post to pull Fernie to within 1 and keep them close. Completely against the flow of play, Calvin, with unbelievable patience, waits out Abdallah and rips it past his out-stretched glove to once again give BV the 2-goal lead and chases Abdallah from the net. Less than a minute later, Justin Niminiken welcomes Solecki to the game and stretches that lead to 3 and BV takes a 5-2 lead into the 3rd period despite being outplayed and out-shot in the 2nd.
In the last 20 minutes of their season, Fernie left it all out on the ice. BV's defense once again was the story blocking untold amounts of shots and keeping the Rider forwards on the outsides when they exerted pressure in the Hawks zone. Again, it was a hard grinding period that was scoreless until Max Flanagan and AP Jake Lucchini once again created absolute havoc in the Riders end with a grueling fore-check that created a juicy turn-over and this time Josh Peters was the recipient who made no mistake to nail the coffin shut on the Ghostriders season. Perehudoff was spectacular in net stopping all 11 shots as BV breezed off to 6-2 win.
Game Stars:
BV - Zach Perehudoff - 30/32 saves
BV - Dallas Calvin - 2G
BV - Max Flanagan - 1A
This win really belongs to the grinders. Max Flanagan and speedster AP Lucchini caused no end of fits for Rider defense, while Johnson, Baines, and Schapansky all kept the forwards looking back with crushing hits and open ice muscle. Since game 1 of the series, the all-star line of Craig Martin, Chris Derochie, and Ryan Edwards (#CCR) have combined for a total of 1 goal and 7 assists over the final 4 games. With a power outage from the top line like that, one would have to be a bit concerned. Fortunately, the other three lines have stepped up and picked up the slack. Given the depth of talent, and the distinct possibility that the top line WILL kick back into gear, the Kelowna Chiefs have everything to fear going into the KIJHL League Final. Sure, Kelowna has 2 of the top 5 playoff scorers this season, but so did Fernie, and look where that got them.
At the beginning of the play-offs, I had heard mixed feelings regarding the addition of Jake Lucchini to the line-up. I, myself, was quite excited to see him with the opportunity but questioned the timing. Sure he is fast, but he was being pushed around like the runt at the feeding trough. His early play looked weak and with-out passion, but as the play-offs progressed, he picked up that passion and started to push back! His fight and determination in game 5 was epic and directly lead to 2 goals. Although he sorely needs to bulk up a bit to remain a huge force, he is young and has that time to do so.
Now, on to 'other' matters....officiating. Ask anyone sitting near me during this game, I was utterly confused as to what was going on. Read the game sheet yourself for the official in question. Sure, the calls were weirdly slanted in BV's direction, but that doesnt make it right! I have said all alone that I call it as I see it, and I saw garbage. Several calls were made FOR BV that should have gone against them. It actually gave me a chance to see what the rest of the league has been enjoying all year, and I still dont like it!! I dont care if we benefit or suffer from incompetence, its still a travesty either way. Bottom line I guess, BV dealt with it and persevered all season, that gives them the edge in my mind regardless of the level of officiating in the upcoming games.
Congratulations to the Beaver Valley Nitehawks on their first Conference banner since 2006!!!
Next up - Kelowna!! Games 1 and 2 are here in the BVA on March 28th and 29th at 7pm both nights. Lets pack the barn and cheer on our Nitehawks as they fly off to a League title.
3 down - 1 to go
Game 1: Ghostriders 2 - Nitehawks 5
Game 2: Ghostriders 6 - Nitehawks 3
Game 3: Nitehawks 4 - Ghostriders 2
Game 4: Nitehawks 2 - Ghostriders 0
Game 5: Ghostriders 2 - Nitehawks 6
KOOTENAY CONFERENCE CHAMPS!!!!
After escaping from Fernie with 2 wins on the road due to stellar goaltending from both Zach Perehudoff in game 3, and his first career KIJHL playoff shutout from Mike Vlanich in game 4, the Nitehawks were at home for game 5 with the chance to move off to the league final with a win.
The almost non-existent CCR line finally got a tally at the midpoint of the first period to open the scoring as Martin nets a ppg to give BV the much needed 1-0 lead. It was short lived as Connor McLaughlin made good on the second consecutive shorthanded breakaway given up by BV just minutes later. Derek Lashuk would re-assert that lead on the same power play with a rocket just :08 after Fernie tied it. Hard work and a crushing fore-check lead to a bang-bang play and Calvin buried it to give BV the a 3-1 lead after 1.
The second period was almost a flip-flop of the first as Fernie came out with passion and determination to not let things get away from them. The Nitehawk defense was the difference tonight and it took until 10:44 before Fernie finally snuck (and i mean SNUCK) the puck past Zach. Brendan Burge drove the net and literaly found a hole just big enough to stuff the puck in between Perehudoff and the post to pull Fernie to within 1 and keep them close. Completely against the flow of play, Calvin, with unbelievable patience, waits out Abdallah and rips it past his out-stretched glove to once again give BV the 2-goal lead and chases Abdallah from the net. Less than a minute later, Justin Niminiken welcomes Solecki to the game and stretches that lead to 3 and BV takes a 5-2 lead into the 3rd period despite being outplayed and out-shot in the 2nd.
In the last 20 minutes of their season, Fernie left it all out on the ice. BV's defense once again was the story blocking untold amounts of shots and keeping the Rider forwards on the outsides when they exerted pressure in the Hawks zone. Again, it was a hard grinding period that was scoreless until Max Flanagan and AP Jake Lucchini once again created absolute havoc in the Riders end with a grueling fore-check that created a juicy turn-over and this time Josh Peters was the recipient who made no mistake to nail the coffin shut on the Ghostriders season. Perehudoff was spectacular in net stopping all 11 shots as BV breezed off to 6-2 win.
Game Stars:
BV - Zach Perehudoff - 30/32 saves
BV - Dallas Calvin - 2G
BV - Max Flanagan - 1A
This win really belongs to the grinders. Max Flanagan and speedster AP Lucchini caused no end of fits for Rider defense, while Johnson, Baines, and Schapansky all kept the forwards looking back with crushing hits and open ice muscle. Since game 1 of the series, the all-star line of Craig Martin, Chris Derochie, and Ryan Edwards (#CCR) have combined for a total of 1 goal and 7 assists over the final 4 games. With a power outage from the top line like that, one would have to be a bit concerned. Fortunately, the other three lines have stepped up and picked up the slack. Given the depth of talent, and the distinct possibility that the top line WILL kick back into gear, the Kelowna Chiefs have everything to fear going into the KIJHL League Final. Sure, Kelowna has 2 of the top 5 playoff scorers this season, but so did Fernie, and look where that got them.
At the beginning of the play-offs, I had heard mixed feelings regarding the addition of Jake Lucchini to the line-up. I, myself, was quite excited to see him with the opportunity but questioned the timing. Sure he is fast, but he was being pushed around like the runt at the feeding trough. His early play looked weak and with-out passion, but as the play-offs progressed, he picked up that passion and started to push back! His fight and determination in game 5 was epic and directly lead to 2 goals. Although he sorely needs to bulk up a bit to remain a huge force, he is young and has that time to do so.
Now, on to 'other' matters....officiating. Ask anyone sitting near me during this game, I was utterly confused as to what was going on. Read the game sheet yourself for the official in question. Sure, the calls were weirdly slanted in BV's direction, but that doesnt make it right! I have said all alone that I call it as I see it, and I saw garbage. Several calls were made FOR BV that should have gone against them. It actually gave me a chance to see what the rest of the league has been enjoying all year, and I still dont like it!! I dont care if we benefit or suffer from incompetence, its still a travesty either way. Bottom line I guess, BV dealt with it and persevered all season, that gives them the edge in my mind regardless of the level of officiating in the upcoming games.
Congratulations to the Beaver Valley Nitehawks on their first Conference banner since 2006!!!
Next up - Kelowna!! Games 1 and 2 are here in the BVA on March 28th and 29th at 7pm both nights. Lets pack the barn and cheer on our Nitehawks as they fly off to a League title.
3 down - 1 to go
Monday 19 March 2012
Kootenay Conference Final - Games 1 & 2
(series tied 1-1)
Game 1: Ghostriders 2 - Nitehawks 5
Game 2: Ghostriders 6 - Nitehawks 3
After watching an action packed exciting series like the Division final, so far this has been almost tedious. Neither team were out to play in game 1, but several lucky bounces and perhaps some distracted play by Solecki, allowed BV to jump out to a 5-0 lead before Fernie battled back to make it a 5-2 final. Game 2 saw BV with the same sloppy passing and general lack of urgency while the Ghostriders found their legs and outplayed the Hawks.
Game 1: With only one really potent shift that had dominant control through 20 minutes, it was truly surprising to see BV with a 2-0 lead on goals from Chris Derochie and Arie Postmus. Period 2 wasnt a whole lot better as BV was out-shot 14-9, but scored 3 goals on those 9 shots. A pair from Craig Martin and a solo bid from Mason Spear gave BV a highly misleading 5-0 lead before Connor McLaughlin finally poked one home on the power play to ruin the shut-out for Zach Perehudoff. Stefen Seel got the only goal of the third in the first minute and despite their efforts, were unable to pull any closer allowing BV to escape with the win.
Game Stars:
BV - Chris Derochie 1G 2A
BV - Craig Martin 2G 1A
FG - Connor McLaughlin 1G 1A
Game 2: To no-ones surprise, Fernie got their act together and finally started playing. For the second game in a row, BV looked like a tired, non-commited team. FG took advantage and opened the scoring 7 minutes in on a goal by Connor McLaughlin. Dallas Calvin answered on the power play with under 5 to go in period one to keep BV even. Fernie took the lead once again very shortly into the second on a great patience play by Brendan Burge only to have that lead evaporate on the ensuing face-off when Max Flanagan took just 8 seconds to tie it up. Then, the point shot started getting through. Marty Wicks potted two slappers in just over 3 minutes as Fernie edged out to a 4-2 lead before Dallas Calvin got one back for BV. Patrick Webb restored the two goal Fernie lead on another point shot before the period was out. Once again, BV was unable to score in the third period even though the out-shot FG 14-5 and McLaughlin nets his 2nd into the empty net to seal the 6-3 win for Fernie and a 1-1 tie in the series heading back to Fernie on Tues., and Wed. nights.
Game Stars:
FG - Marty Wicks 2G
FG - Connor McLaughlin 2G
FG - Brendan Burge 1G
This series could very well have been 2-0 for Fernie due to the play of BV on both nights. Had FG been playing in game one like they did in game two, then this is a different series. As it stands, BV has their work cut out for them to pick it up and play like they know how to and not like a team that looks indifferent. Fernie will not lay down and give this up easily.
The officiating in both games was not bad actually. Sure stuff got missed, some stuff was a bit suspect, but in all reality, neither team played well enough to have the officials be a mitigating factor in either game. And aside from a pre-game conversation with Maniago(see 'The Official Response'), he was surprisingly neutral.
Game 1: Ghostriders 2 - Nitehawks 5
Game 2: Ghostriders 6 - Nitehawks 3
After watching an action packed exciting series like the Division final, so far this has been almost tedious. Neither team were out to play in game 1, but several lucky bounces and perhaps some distracted play by Solecki, allowed BV to jump out to a 5-0 lead before Fernie battled back to make it a 5-2 final. Game 2 saw BV with the same sloppy passing and general lack of urgency while the Ghostriders found their legs and outplayed the Hawks.
Game 1: With only one really potent shift that had dominant control through 20 minutes, it was truly surprising to see BV with a 2-0 lead on goals from Chris Derochie and Arie Postmus. Period 2 wasnt a whole lot better as BV was out-shot 14-9, but scored 3 goals on those 9 shots. A pair from Craig Martin and a solo bid from Mason Spear gave BV a highly misleading 5-0 lead before Connor McLaughlin finally poked one home on the power play to ruin the shut-out for Zach Perehudoff. Stefen Seel got the only goal of the third in the first minute and despite their efforts, were unable to pull any closer allowing BV to escape with the win.
Game Stars:
BV - Chris Derochie 1G 2A
BV - Craig Martin 2G 1A
FG - Connor McLaughlin 1G 1A
Game 2: To no-ones surprise, Fernie got their act together and finally started playing. For the second game in a row, BV looked like a tired, non-commited team. FG took advantage and opened the scoring 7 minutes in on a goal by Connor McLaughlin. Dallas Calvin answered on the power play with under 5 to go in period one to keep BV even. Fernie took the lead once again very shortly into the second on a great patience play by Brendan Burge only to have that lead evaporate on the ensuing face-off when Max Flanagan took just 8 seconds to tie it up. Then, the point shot started getting through. Marty Wicks potted two slappers in just over 3 minutes as Fernie edged out to a 4-2 lead before Dallas Calvin got one back for BV. Patrick Webb restored the two goal Fernie lead on another point shot before the period was out. Once again, BV was unable to score in the third period even though the out-shot FG 14-5 and McLaughlin nets his 2nd into the empty net to seal the 6-3 win for Fernie and a 1-1 tie in the series heading back to Fernie on Tues., and Wed. nights.
Game Stars:
FG - Marty Wicks 2G
FG - Connor McLaughlin 2G
FG - Brendan Burge 1G
This series could very well have been 2-0 for Fernie due to the play of BV on both nights. Had FG been playing in game one like they did in game two, then this is a different series. As it stands, BV has their work cut out for them to pick it up and play like they know how to and not like a team that looks indifferent. Fernie will not lay down and give this up easily.
The officiating in both games was not bad actually. Sure stuff got missed, some stuff was a bit suspect, but in all reality, neither team played well enough to have the officials be a mitigating factor in either game. And aside from a pre-game conversation with Maniago(see 'The Official Response'), he was surprisingly neutral.
The "Official" Response
At the outset of this entire endeavour to express my own personal thoughts and feeling regarding the game of hockey, and the personalities within, I never anticipated it would have the impact that it has in such a short time. Some have enjoyed it, while others have had issues with it.
This post is going to explore a topic that has truly been the most controversial throughout the season, officiating. No, I will not be ranting and raving about the conduct and/or professionalism of our nightly zebras, but more so their ignorance to how they are viewed from outside the playing surface.
As you all most certainly know, I have said my piece quite freely on a nightly basis and am shocked that it took as long as it did for the event that transpired prior to game 2 of the Kootenay Conference Final.
Jim Maniago tracked me down in the stands and wished to discuss my recent blog post from game 7 of the NM Division Final. Apparently, unlike S. Peel and E. Dasti, Mr. Maniago has a thinner skin and seems more sensitive to having his precious hobby criticized. Literally, his first words to me were, "Do you have a problem with me?". Seriously Jim, I don't even KNOW you, so how could I have a problem with you? The calls you make or DON'T make on the ice has no reflection, in my mind, to the person you are. The question should instead have been, "Do you have a problem with my officiating?"...now THAT is a different story.
What honestly stunned me the most about the entire exchange, was the fact that he seemed genuinely upset that someone would think this way and figured I had no right to voice my opinion. WAKE UP JIM!! Freedom of speech allows me to as long as I'm not being defamatory in any way. And, despite what you think, saying that "I despise you" is in no way defamatory. Feel free to go through any of my posts for any personal attacks to you or any other official. In fact, during our conversation, you yourself crossed that line in calling me a "geek that hides behind a computer screen".
The on ice conduct of the officials is most certainly a public affair and thus should NOT be such a huge shock when opinions are also made public. During the following 2 intermissions, the chatter within the area I was sitting completely hinged on the crowds thoughts and feelings of the officiating of Maniago, both in the game and in general.
Lastly, I would like to apologize to Chris. The conversation should NOT have happened over top of you.
This post is going to explore a topic that has truly been the most controversial throughout the season, officiating. No, I will not be ranting and raving about the conduct and/or professionalism of our nightly zebras, but more so their ignorance to how they are viewed from outside the playing surface.
As you all most certainly know, I have said my piece quite freely on a nightly basis and am shocked that it took as long as it did for the event that transpired prior to game 2 of the Kootenay Conference Final.
Jim Maniago tracked me down in the stands and wished to discuss my recent blog post from game 7 of the NM Division Final. Apparently, unlike S. Peel and E. Dasti, Mr. Maniago has a thinner skin and seems more sensitive to having his precious hobby criticized. Literally, his first words to me were, "Do you have a problem with me?". Seriously Jim, I don't even KNOW you, so how could I have a problem with you? The calls you make or DON'T make on the ice has no reflection, in my mind, to the person you are. The question should instead have been, "Do you have a problem with my officiating?"...now THAT is a different story.
What honestly stunned me the most about the entire exchange, was the fact that he seemed genuinely upset that someone would think this way and figured I had no right to voice my opinion. WAKE UP JIM!! Freedom of speech allows me to as long as I'm not being defamatory in any way. And, despite what you think, saying that "I despise you" is in no way defamatory. Feel free to go through any of my posts for any personal attacks to you or any other official. In fact, during our conversation, you yourself crossed that line in calling me a "geek that hides behind a computer screen".
The on ice conduct of the officials is most certainly a public affair and thus should NOT be such a huge shock when opinions are also made public. During the following 2 intermissions, the chatter within the area I was sitting completely hinged on the crowds thoughts and feelings of the officiating of Maniago, both in the game and in general.
Lastly, I would like to apologize to Chris. The conversation should NOT have happened over top of you.
Friday 16 March 2012
NM Division Final Games 5, 6, and 7
(BV wins series 4-3)
Game 1: Rebels 1 - Nitehawks 4
Game 2: Rebels 4 - Nitehawks 5 - OT
Game 3: Nitehawks 2 - Rebels 3
Game 4: Nitehawks 5 - Rebels 2
Game 5: Rebels 4 - Nitehawks 3 (2OT)
Game 6: Nitehawks 4 - Rebels 6
Game 7: Rebels 3 - Nitehawks 5
I sincerely apologize for not getting to this in a more timely manner, but prior to game 5, I was asked to modify my way of thinking. So, instead of ranting and raving about the sheer ineptitude of our league officials, I decided to say nothing at all. Yes, I could have just given you all a generic, watered down version of my style, but where is the fun in that?? Instead, I held it all inside and transformed it into positive energy REGARDLESS of the verbal assault via twitter by the Rebel faithfuls. To those, I'd like to say grow up or join the healthy Rebel scratches as they huddle under blankets like little princesses in the bleachers. Wait, what am I saying, you will have to meet at the golf course, my bad :)
Onward and upward! Needless to say, I have a tonne of writing here so games 5 and 6 will be just a short recap as I build towards what we all enjoyed to no end!!
Game 5 (BVA)- Rebels opened the scoring 7:14 into the first on the PP as Scott Morisseau gets his first of 2. Dallas Calvin would tie it up for BV four minutes later on a PP of their own with a nice point shot that beat Gluck clean. The two teams would hold that tie until 6:12 of the 2nd period when Calvin lets go of another point shot that is neatly tipped by Jake Lucchini to give the Nitehawks the lead. That goal by Lucchini was his first career KIJHL playoff goal!! However, the lead would be short lived as Tyler Collins takes a slashing penalty half a minute after the goal and Castlegar would take a total of 13 seconds to bring the game back to even. Tyler Robinson gave CG the lead back two minutes later and a solo effort by Arie Postmus with 3 minutes left would once again put us back at even going into the third. BV had been dominant thus far outshooting CG 25-20 through 2 periods, but in the third they would open it up looking to put it away but Jordan Gluck stopped all 14 shots while his front 5 could only muster 6 on 'Big' Mike Vlanich. A ten minute OT would solve things and so to double OT we go. 2:09 into the second OT, the puck would find Arthur Andrews in front and he made no mistake high stick to win it for CG.
Game Stars: (unlike Castlegar, we DO pick when we lose)
CG - Arthur Andrews - GWG
CG - Jordan Gluck - 46/49 saves
BV - Dallas Calvin 1G 1A
Game 6 (CDCC)- Beaver Valley controlled the first 15 minutes of period one. The last 5 was a different story. The hero of game 5, Arthur Andrews, strikes again at 15:04 and at 15:47, Peter Mingus also gets into the action to give CG the 2-0 lead after 20 minutes. CG actually out-shot BV 14-10 in the opener, but were trodden badly come the 2nd as BV lit their fires and stormed into a 3-2 lead on goals by Chris Derochie(4:37), Craig Martin(10:39), and Mason Spear(13:35) while out-shooting CG 19-5 along the way. The fire would not stay lit in the third as CG re-asserted themselves with 3 goals of their own. Jones got the ball rolling even strength while Morisseau, and Walton would score on the power play just 24 seconds apart to blow the game open. Ryan Baines tried to rally with 7:25 remaining but Robinson shut the door with an empty netter in the final minute to give CG the 6-4 win in a game where the officiating was highly controversial.
Game Stars:
CG - Tyler Robinson 1G 2A
BV - Craig Martin 1G 2A
CG - Jordan Gluck 32/36 saves
Now, onto the main attraction!! Game 7 at home in BV!!
It has GOT to be the game of the century!! In a barn that was LOADED with people, it started with an absolutely brilliant save by 'BIG' Mike V!! Fifteen seconds into the tilt and CG gets a high quality scoring chance only to be thwarted by the pads of Vlanich. CG pushed and pushed HARD! It didnt take long for their efforts to bare fruit as Erik Alden would intercept a clearing pass and beat Vlanich just 2:50 in. Tyler Robinson would do roughly the same thing ten minutes later and suddenly the Rebels have another 2 goal lead after the first period and out-shooting BV 19-6.
Tension mounting but never losing doubt in the fight of the Nitehawks, given the comeback from two nights earlier, I knew they could do it again. It took until 8:11, but Nick Perez got his 2nd of the series and the Hawks were on the board in what was affectionately called the 'zoohouse' by Chris Wahl. Less than a minute later, Ryan Edwards ties it up with a goal of his own and the place is buzzing. When Mason Spear scored with 2:14 left in the second, it was truly a madhouse with BV fans everywhere!! It truly showed the importance of the home-ice advantage as BV fed off that energy through the second while it seemed Castlegar had left it all on the table in the first, leaving little energy to finish the game. Robinson would tie it up before the 2nd break with his 2nd of the night to dampen the mood, but only slightly.
If there was tension to start the 2nd, the third was unbearable, almost! BV proved they still had the desire and will to win as they pushed harder and harder, wearing out Castlegar even more. It was noted and mentioned to me that, throughout the third, the usual after-whistle crap that CG is so well known for, was completely non-existant. With ever increasing pressure, BV FINALLY cracks the armor of Gluck and Justin Niminiken slides home the go-ahead goal with 3:08 left and the barn exploded!!! Try as they might, the Rebels could not muster their usual final minute 'full court press' and Ryan Edwards put this series on ice with an empty netter as BV wins 5-3.
Game Stars:
BV - Mike Vlanich 33/36 saves with several being jaw-droppers
BV - Justin Niminiken 1G 1A - SERIES WINNING GOAL
CG - Jordan Gluck 30/34 saves
Game 5 was reported to have an attendance of almost 600, 591 if I recall correctly. The scoresheet on game 7 reports only 425. That has GOT to be a mistake as there were FAR more people in the barn for game 7! Either way, the place was absolutely packed! The officiating in game 5 and 6....well...lets NOT go there. Game 7 was....even. Although I despise the official for the game, J.Maniago, I have to applaud his ability to keep that whistle firmly, if not literally, planted in his pocket during the third period when soooo many penalties could very well have been called, both ways. It goes against EVERY fiber to actually say.....g-g-g-g-good j-j-j-job.......oh man that was hard!!!
Congratulations to the Nitehawks who NEVER gave up and triumphed over their opposition. Next up, Fernie Ghostriders!! Lets take it to 'em like we know how!!
Game 1: Rebels 1 - Nitehawks 4
Game 2: Rebels 4 - Nitehawks 5 - OT
Game 3: Nitehawks 2 - Rebels 3
Game 4: Nitehawks 5 - Rebels 2
Game 5: Rebels 4 - Nitehawks 3 (2OT)
Game 6: Nitehawks 4 - Rebels 6
Game 7: Rebels 3 - Nitehawks 5
I sincerely apologize for not getting to this in a more timely manner, but prior to game 5, I was asked to modify my way of thinking. So, instead of ranting and raving about the sheer ineptitude of our league officials, I decided to say nothing at all. Yes, I could have just given you all a generic, watered down version of my style, but where is the fun in that?? Instead, I held it all inside and transformed it into positive energy REGARDLESS of the verbal assault via twitter by the Rebel faithfuls. To those, I'd like to say grow up or join the healthy Rebel scratches as they huddle under blankets like little princesses in the bleachers. Wait, what am I saying, you will have to meet at the golf course, my bad :)
Onward and upward! Needless to say, I have a tonne of writing here so games 5 and 6 will be just a short recap as I build towards what we all enjoyed to no end!!
Game 5 (BVA)- Rebels opened the scoring 7:14 into the first on the PP as Scott Morisseau gets his first of 2. Dallas Calvin would tie it up for BV four minutes later on a PP of their own with a nice point shot that beat Gluck clean. The two teams would hold that tie until 6:12 of the 2nd period when Calvin lets go of another point shot that is neatly tipped by Jake Lucchini to give the Nitehawks the lead. That goal by Lucchini was his first career KIJHL playoff goal!! However, the lead would be short lived as Tyler Collins takes a slashing penalty half a minute after the goal and Castlegar would take a total of 13 seconds to bring the game back to even. Tyler Robinson gave CG the lead back two minutes later and a solo effort by Arie Postmus with 3 minutes left would once again put us back at even going into the third. BV had been dominant thus far outshooting CG 25-20 through 2 periods, but in the third they would open it up looking to put it away but Jordan Gluck stopped all 14 shots while his front 5 could only muster 6 on 'Big' Mike Vlanich. A ten minute OT would solve things and so to double OT we go. 2:09 into the second OT, the puck would find Arthur Andrews in front and he made no mistake high stick to win it for CG.
Game Stars: (unlike Castlegar, we DO pick when we lose)
CG - Arthur Andrews - GWG
CG - Jordan Gluck - 46/49 saves
BV - Dallas Calvin 1G 1A
Game 6 (CDCC)- Beaver Valley controlled the first 15 minutes of period one. The last 5 was a different story. The hero of game 5, Arthur Andrews, strikes again at 15:04 and at 15:47, Peter Mingus also gets into the action to give CG the 2-0 lead after 20 minutes. CG actually out-shot BV 14-10 in the opener, but were trodden badly come the 2nd as BV lit their fires and stormed into a 3-2 lead on goals by Chris Derochie(4:37), Craig Martin(10:39), and Mason Spear(13:35) while out-shooting CG 19-5 along the way. The fire would not stay lit in the third as CG re-asserted themselves with 3 goals of their own. Jones got the ball rolling even strength while Morisseau, and Walton would score on the power play just 24 seconds apart to blow the game open. Ryan Baines tried to rally with 7:25 remaining but Robinson shut the door with an empty netter in the final minute to give CG the 6-4 win in a game where the officiating was highly controversial.
Game Stars:
CG - Tyler Robinson 1G 2A
BV - Craig Martin 1G 2A
CG - Jordan Gluck 32/36 saves
Now, onto the main attraction!! Game 7 at home in BV!!
It has GOT to be the game of the century!! In a barn that was LOADED with people, it started with an absolutely brilliant save by 'BIG' Mike V!! Fifteen seconds into the tilt and CG gets a high quality scoring chance only to be thwarted by the pads of Vlanich. CG pushed and pushed HARD! It didnt take long for their efforts to bare fruit as Erik Alden would intercept a clearing pass and beat Vlanich just 2:50 in. Tyler Robinson would do roughly the same thing ten minutes later and suddenly the Rebels have another 2 goal lead after the first period and out-shooting BV 19-6.
Tension mounting but never losing doubt in the fight of the Nitehawks, given the comeback from two nights earlier, I knew they could do it again. It took until 8:11, but Nick Perez got his 2nd of the series and the Hawks were on the board in what was affectionately called the 'zoohouse' by Chris Wahl. Less than a minute later, Ryan Edwards ties it up with a goal of his own and the place is buzzing. When Mason Spear scored with 2:14 left in the second, it was truly a madhouse with BV fans everywhere!! It truly showed the importance of the home-ice advantage as BV fed off that energy through the second while it seemed Castlegar had left it all on the table in the first, leaving little energy to finish the game. Robinson would tie it up before the 2nd break with his 2nd of the night to dampen the mood, but only slightly.
If there was tension to start the 2nd, the third was unbearable, almost! BV proved they still had the desire and will to win as they pushed harder and harder, wearing out Castlegar even more. It was noted and mentioned to me that, throughout the third, the usual after-whistle crap that CG is so well known for, was completely non-existant. With ever increasing pressure, BV FINALLY cracks the armor of Gluck and Justin Niminiken slides home the go-ahead goal with 3:08 left and the barn exploded!!! Try as they might, the Rebels could not muster their usual final minute 'full court press' and Ryan Edwards put this series on ice with an empty netter as BV wins 5-3.
Game Stars:
BV - Mike Vlanich 33/36 saves with several being jaw-droppers
BV - Justin Niminiken 1G 1A - SERIES WINNING GOAL
CG - Jordan Gluck 30/34 saves
Game 5 was reported to have an attendance of almost 600, 591 if I recall correctly. The scoresheet on game 7 reports only 425. That has GOT to be a mistake as there were FAR more people in the barn for game 7! Either way, the place was absolutely packed! The officiating in game 5 and 6....well...lets NOT go there. Game 7 was....even. Although I despise the official for the game, J.Maniago, I have to applaud his ability to keep that whistle firmly, if not literally, planted in his pocket during the third period when soooo many penalties could very well have been called, both ways. It goes against EVERY fiber to actually say.....g-g-g-g-good j-j-j-job.......oh man that was hard!!!
Congratulations to the Nitehawks who NEVER gave up and triumphed over their opposition. Next up, Fernie Ghostriders!! Lets take it to 'em like we know how!!
Sunday 11 March 2012
NM Division Final Games 3 & 4: Nitehawks/Rebels
(BV leads series 3-1)
Game 1: Rebels 1 - Nitehawks 4
Game 2: Rebels 4 - Nitehawks 5 - OT
Game 3: Nitehawks 2 - Rebels 3
Game 4: Nitehawks 5 - Rebels 2
Good Morning Hawks Fans. What a weekend!! It was a "lose some, win some" type of weekend (backwards, I know). After suffering a heartbreaking loss on a controversial goal, BV bounced back the following night and played like the team that only lost 10 times all season and picked up the split in one of the toughest barns in the league.
Game 3: Early on it was evident that the Nitehawks were going to catch no luck. After getting the first 3 power plays of the game, lack of discipline resulted in 2 Rebel goals, the 2nd was just after the pp ended. With only 1:11 gone in the second period, CG has a 2 goal lead that, with the way Gluck has been playing, seems near insurmountable. Just 2 mins later, BV finally cashes in on the man advantage as Nims closes the Rebel lead to 1. With 7 mins remaining in the 2nd, AP Jake Lucchini in his first career KIJHL playoff game, streaked down the left boards, pulled up and tossed the perfect saucer pass to the front of the net where Scott Davidson stretched and tipped it past Gluck for the tie game!!
The 3rd was a testament to goal tending as both made unreal saves. It took until 3 mins remaining before any headway was made. Morisseau leapt on a rebound in front and pushed the puck in past Vlanich as the net was knocked off. It was a close bang-bang play that the ref was in no position to make. I was, but it was so close and fast, I don't know with certainty if it crossed the line before or after the net came off. Yet, in a close tie game late in the third, Peel, yes Peel, called it a goal. So with only 3 mins remaining, BV is down 3-2 in a hostile barn. Despite a massive push and several near goals, Castlegar hangs on to win 3-2.
Game Stars:
CG - Brendan Heinrich
CG - Jordan Gluck
BV - Scott Davidson
Game 4: BV discipline in game 3 was sketchy at best, so it only stands to reason that in order to defeat the pesky Rebels, they must stick to their game plan. Saturday night, they did. Unlike the hard hitting action that they started out with in game 3, BV had a more calculated plan for the night. If the rumors about the Rebels headhunting Collins for his hit in the first period in game 3 were true, they didnt affect the Hawks. Collins himself, and even Spear for that matter, played a much more disciplined game with no reaction to the constant agitation of Castlegar.
Just like game 3, CG opened the scoring again as Diego Bartlett teamed up with Andrews and Disher to make it 1-0 for the Rebels. After being victimized the night before on the pk, BV stepped it up and was perfect on the night. Castlegar, however, was not so fortunate. Eviston and Pearson took penalties late in the opening frame just 1:07 apart giving BV a long 2-man advantage. They took only :09 seconds to capitalize on the 5-on-3 as Craig Martin tips home a Postmus point shot to tie the game at 1 going into the break.
The second period started like the first ended, undisciplined play by CG. BV was unable to make them pay for it this time and we remained at 1. A Rebel scoring chance leads to a CG playing running into BV goalie Zach Perehudoff which got the ire of d-man Nick Perez. Instead of coincidentals, Dasti calls only the roughing on Perez. Delong took his team off the pp with a boarding call shortly after and so we got some 4-on-4 for about a minute and then BV was back on the pp. This time they made no mistake and Martin gets his 2nd of the night for the 2-1 lead they wouldnt relinquish. Things would get a little rough with just under 5 to go in the 2nd. Brantley Schapansky went into the corner to make a hit on Disher only to be tripped on the way in. His now off-balance hit was a more severe than intended and Disher was injured on the play. Dasti in his infinite wisdom decides on a 5 minute charging penalty along with a game misconduct. Luckily, Heinrich gets nabbed for holding shortly after which cuts the BV pk time. With 1:17 left in the 2nd and CG now on the pp again, Nick Perez walked in and snuck a puck 5-hole on Gluck shorthanded to give BV the 3-1 lead after 2.
With confidence soaring, BV kept pressure on in the Rebel zone in the 3rd. Castlegar briefly pushed back and capitalized on a centering pass to Horcoff to cut the BV lead to 1. Another BV power play, and another Arie Postmus point shot gives the Nitehawks their 2-goal lead back with 8:30 to go. Pressure and saves on both ends but with the Rebel net empty, Edwards streaks in and caps off the night with an empty netter as BV wins 5-2 and takes a commanding 3-1 lead in the series.
Game Stars: Well, I have to choose my own as it would seem that a certain @kijhlwatcher is correct in one aspect, Castlegar only chooses stars when they win, totally classless.
BV - Arie Postmus - 1G 2A
BV - Chris Derochie - 3A
BV - Nick Perez - 1G GWG
How is it that in 4 games, we have had the pleasure of 3 of the worst officials to ever grace the ice? Games 3 and 4 saw Dasti and Peel(again). You can ask anyone in the arena, yes, even the Rebel fans. The officiating is poor and it seems to be rubbing off on the linesmen. I dont know if the pressure of the playoffs is getting to them, but they need to step up and get their heads straight before those lunatic fans at the complex lynch them.
Speaking of fans, before the series started, I actually had several Rebel supporters talk with me and ask me to "control our fans". Seriously? After hearing the crap and disrespect that spews from Castlegar fans, I dont think they have any grounds to be asking US to get under control. Not to mention the throwing of objects onto the ice at the Nitehawk players and security not doing anything about it. It wasnt surprising as the security guard in question was wearing a Rebels sweatshirt. It just further re-inforces how all year I have labelled the Rebels the dirtiest team in the league, and it seems they have fans to match.
Next game is on Monday March 12, 2012 at 7pm at the BVA. Nitehawks can close out the series and eliminate the vermin. Lets all come out and cheer on our boys!!
Game 1: Rebels 1 - Nitehawks 4
Game 2: Rebels 4 - Nitehawks 5 - OT
Game 3: Nitehawks 2 - Rebels 3
Game 4: Nitehawks 5 - Rebels 2
Good Morning Hawks Fans. What a weekend!! It was a "lose some, win some" type of weekend (backwards, I know). After suffering a heartbreaking loss on a controversial goal, BV bounced back the following night and played like the team that only lost 10 times all season and picked up the split in one of the toughest barns in the league.
Game 3: Early on it was evident that the Nitehawks were going to catch no luck. After getting the first 3 power plays of the game, lack of discipline resulted in 2 Rebel goals, the 2nd was just after the pp ended. With only 1:11 gone in the second period, CG has a 2 goal lead that, with the way Gluck has been playing, seems near insurmountable. Just 2 mins later, BV finally cashes in on the man advantage as Nims closes the Rebel lead to 1. With 7 mins remaining in the 2nd, AP Jake Lucchini in his first career KIJHL playoff game, streaked down the left boards, pulled up and tossed the perfect saucer pass to the front of the net where Scott Davidson stretched and tipped it past Gluck for the tie game!!
The 3rd was a testament to goal tending as both made unreal saves. It took until 3 mins remaining before any headway was made. Morisseau leapt on a rebound in front and pushed the puck in past Vlanich as the net was knocked off. It was a close bang-bang play that the ref was in no position to make. I was, but it was so close and fast, I don't know with certainty if it crossed the line before or after the net came off. Yet, in a close tie game late in the third, Peel, yes Peel, called it a goal. So with only 3 mins remaining, BV is down 3-2 in a hostile barn. Despite a massive push and several near goals, Castlegar hangs on to win 3-2.
Game Stars:
CG - Brendan Heinrich
CG - Jordan Gluck
BV - Scott Davidson
Game 4: BV discipline in game 3 was sketchy at best, so it only stands to reason that in order to defeat the pesky Rebels, they must stick to their game plan. Saturday night, they did. Unlike the hard hitting action that they started out with in game 3, BV had a more calculated plan for the night. If the rumors about the Rebels headhunting Collins for his hit in the first period in game 3 were true, they didnt affect the Hawks. Collins himself, and even Spear for that matter, played a much more disciplined game with no reaction to the constant agitation of Castlegar.
Just like game 3, CG opened the scoring again as Diego Bartlett teamed up with Andrews and Disher to make it 1-0 for the Rebels. After being victimized the night before on the pk, BV stepped it up and was perfect on the night. Castlegar, however, was not so fortunate. Eviston and Pearson took penalties late in the opening frame just 1:07 apart giving BV a long 2-man advantage. They took only :09 seconds to capitalize on the 5-on-3 as Craig Martin tips home a Postmus point shot to tie the game at 1 going into the break.
The second period started like the first ended, undisciplined play by CG. BV was unable to make them pay for it this time and we remained at 1. A Rebel scoring chance leads to a CG playing running into BV goalie Zach Perehudoff which got the ire of d-man Nick Perez. Instead of coincidentals, Dasti calls only the roughing on Perez. Delong took his team off the pp with a boarding call shortly after and so we got some 4-on-4 for about a minute and then BV was back on the pp. This time they made no mistake and Martin gets his 2nd of the night for the 2-1 lead they wouldnt relinquish. Things would get a little rough with just under 5 to go in the 2nd. Brantley Schapansky went into the corner to make a hit on Disher only to be tripped on the way in. His now off-balance hit was a more severe than intended and Disher was injured on the play. Dasti in his infinite wisdom decides on a 5 minute charging penalty along with a game misconduct. Luckily, Heinrich gets nabbed for holding shortly after which cuts the BV pk time. With 1:17 left in the 2nd and CG now on the pp again, Nick Perez walked in and snuck a puck 5-hole on Gluck shorthanded to give BV the 3-1 lead after 2.
With confidence soaring, BV kept pressure on in the Rebel zone in the 3rd. Castlegar briefly pushed back and capitalized on a centering pass to Horcoff to cut the BV lead to 1. Another BV power play, and another Arie Postmus point shot gives the Nitehawks their 2-goal lead back with 8:30 to go. Pressure and saves on both ends but with the Rebel net empty, Edwards streaks in and caps off the night with an empty netter as BV wins 5-2 and takes a commanding 3-1 lead in the series.
Game Stars: Well, I have to choose my own as it would seem that a certain @kijhlwatcher is correct in one aspect, Castlegar only chooses stars when they win, totally classless.
BV - Arie Postmus - 1G 2A
BV - Chris Derochie - 3A
BV - Nick Perez - 1G GWG
How is it that in 4 games, we have had the pleasure of 3 of the worst officials to ever grace the ice? Games 3 and 4 saw Dasti and Peel(again). You can ask anyone in the arena, yes, even the Rebel fans. The officiating is poor and it seems to be rubbing off on the linesmen. I dont know if the pressure of the playoffs is getting to them, but they need to step up and get their heads straight before those lunatic fans at the complex lynch them.
Speaking of fans, before the series started, I actually had several Rebel supporters talk with me and ask me to "control our fans". Seriously? After hearing the crap and disrespect that spews from Castlegar fans, I dont think they have any grounds to be asking US to get under control. Not to mention the throwing of objects onto the ice at the Nitehawk players and security not doing anything about it. It wasnt surprising as the security guard in question was wearing a Rebels sweatshirt. It just further re-inforces how all year I have labelled the Rebels the dirtiest team in the league, and it seems they have fans to match.
Next game is on Monday March 12, 2012 at 7pm at the BVA. Nitehawks can close out the series and eliminate the vermin. Lets all come out and cheer on our boys!!
Thursday 8 March 2012
NM Division Final Game 2: Rebels/Nitehawks
(BV leads series 2-0)
Game 1: Rebels 1 - Nitehawks 4
Game 2: Rebels 4 - Nitehawks 5 - OT
This just keeps getting better and better. Had the Hawks not come back and win game 2, I would STILL rave at how exciting and suspenseful that game was. But, alas, they DID! And now that I have found myself some time, I will TRY and give you the low-down.
If you had told me that BV was going to open the series with two wins at home, I would have been ecstatic but skeptical. Not that I have so little faith in the Hawks, but, more so, I am aware of a strong Rebel game combined with arguably corrupt officiating. At best, I was banking on a split. What I got, was something I haven't seen a lot of this season and want to see more! The drive and determination they exhibited while playing from behind all night, for the most part, gave the entire barn cause to cheer and urge them on throughout the game. Had it not been for the unbelievably stellar net-minding of Jordan Gluck, it could have been an ugly, UGLY game for Castlegar!
For the 2nd game in a row, BV opened the scoring at 2:40 when Tyler Collins picked up a loose puck behind the net and walked out front and backhanded it bar-down over a sprawled Gluck. Rebels would get the first 2 opportunities on the power play and made no mistake on either to grab their first lead of the series before the 1st is half over. Henderson and Heinrich with the pp goals and its 2-1 CG. Christian Johnson would reply for BV, also on the pp, after picking up a rebound in front and blasting it past Gluck who wasnt quite fast enough. At the break, the game was tied at 2 with shots favoring CG, 12-11.
After both teams being 100% on the pp in the 1st, it would stand to reason that staying OUT of the box is going to be key in this game. With the amount of "crap" ignored, and the weak stuff being called, I figured we were in for a special teams show-down. Luckily, the boys kept things relatively clean until a boarding call on Perez just past the 10 min mark. I agreed, but also disagreed, with the call. Realistically, the ref has no choice but to make that call, but I still firmly believe that the players that put THEMSELVES in those positions should also be punished on a scale something akin to diving. Either way, once again the Rebels made no mistake and took the lead on a goal from Jones. So now, at that point, CG is 3 for 3 on the power play. It really doesnt take a genius to make the conscious effort to stay out of the box. BV did not disappoint and remained clean the remainder of the game. CG, however, could not. SURPRISE....not! Shortly after taking the lead, Henderson gets busted for a hold and the CCR line made some sick moves and had Gluck at their mercy. Chris Derochie tossed it out of the corner cross crease to Craig Martin who would have possibly been stopped on a blazing fast post-to-post move by Gluck, but instead tossed it BACK cross-crease to a waiting Ryan Edwards who had a mile of twine to shoot at. Effortlessly, he snapped the puck into the net and once again we are tied. BV out-shot CG in the 2nd 12-9 and headed into the intermission with the momentum tied at 3.
The third period was a testament tot he coaching of both these teams! Line matching was clearly evident although not always successful. CG pushed, but the Nitehawks defense was up to the task blocking more shots than could get through to a frazzled Perehudoff who didnt see a lot due to the constant traffic jam in front of him any time the puck was in the BV zone. 3:14 into the 3rd, the Rebels went ahead again on a scrambled play as Delong flipped a rebound over Perehudoff. When CG took two penalties :40 secs apart and gave BV a huge 1:20 2-man advantage, the arena was buzzing with the opportunity to tie and possibly pull ahead. Although they held good control, nothing would come of either penalty and the game would remain 4-3. Push as they might, Gluck stood his ground in all star fashion until 18:37 when Tyler Jones shot an errant puck out of play from the rebels zone. After conferring with his linesmen, ref Maniago (yes...THAT Maniago) called the penalty giving BV the late pp. Pushing even harder now, the Nitehawks had Gluck beat on a 5-hole slide play only to have it go through and out the other side of the crease. Gluck himself thought it had gone in and even hung his head in defeat, but only briefly. BV then pulled Perehudoff with just under a minute left giving them a 6 on 4 advantage. With that many bodies, the scrambles were epic! Tyler Collins was the "Johnny-on-the-spot" taking a pass from Calvin and beating Gluck to tie the game with :38 left in regulation. Whew!! The tension up to that point was INTENSE!! To add to it, with mere seconds on the clock, Martin danced from the half boards and almost won it on a beauty shot that was equaled by Glucks save.
As if we hadnt seen enough rocking hockey, we now get the pleasure of OT! In the extra frame, it was ALL BV! With the scent of blood in their noses, they dominated the play and caused raucous scrambles in front of Gluck. At 5:31, Ryan Edwards would locate a puck that squirted from a scramble in front of the net and slide it neatly past an outstretched Gluck to win the game!!
Game Stars:
BV - Ryan Edwards - Not surprising with 2 goals including the Game Winner
CG - Jordan Gluck - For the 2nd game in a row he has been the backbone of the CG team
BV - Tyler Collins - Also no surprise with 2 goals including the game tying goal
I fully expected this game to be ridiculous when it came to officiating given the ref was were presented with. While the first period was a tooth-clencher, it got easier to bear as the game progressed as it became apparent that nothing 'serious' was going to be tolerated. Fair enough, and seeing Morriseau getting tossed for a few choice words at the ref wasn't disappointing either. In a nutshell, I still think poorly of the officials as many things still went unnoticed. I hear people say to me, "But he refs in the dub!" My response is this.... ITS STILL A BLOODY PENALTY THERE TOO!!!
Out Of Town - Fernie took a 2-0 series lead over Kimberley in an 8-7 slugfest, Sicamous and Kelowna both evened their series's at 1 with wins over Kamloops and Princeton respectively.
Next up for BV is Friday March 9, and Sat. March 10 at the Complex in Castlegar. I know that I will be there, will YOU? Feel free to hit me up on twitter before or during the game.
Game 1: Rebels 1 - Nitehawks 4
Game 2: Rebels 4 - Nitehawks 5 - OT
This just keeps getting better and better. Had the Hawks not come back and win game 2, I would STILL rave at how exciting and suspenseful that game was. But, alas, they DID! And now that I have found myself some time, I will TRY and give you the low-down.
If you had told me that BV was going to open the series with two wins at home, I would have been ecstatic but skeptical. Not that I have so little faith in the Hawks, but, more so, I am aware of a strong Rebel game combined with arguably corrupt officiating. At best, I was banking on a split. What I got, was something I haven't seen a lot of this season and want to see more! The drive and determination they exhibited while playing from behind all night, for the most part, gave the entire barn cause to cheer and urge them on throughout the game. Had it not been for the unbelievably stellar net-minding of Jordan Gluck, it could have been an ugly, UGLY game for Castlegar!
For the 2nd game in a row, BV opened the scoring at 2:40 when Tyler Collins picked up a loose puck behind the net and walked out front and backhanded it bar-down over a sprawled Gluck. Rebels would get the first 2 opportunities on the power play and made no mistake on either to grab their first lead of the series before the 1st is half over. Henderson and Heinrich with the pp goals and its 2-1 CG. Christian Johnson would reply for BV, also on the pp, after picking up a rebound in front and blasting it past Gluck who wasnt quite fast enough. At the break, the game was tied at 2 with shots favoring CG, 12-11.
After both teams being 100% on the pp in the 1st, it would stand to reason that staying OUT of the box is going to be key in this game. With the amount of "crap" ignored, and the weak stuff being called, I figured we were in for a special teams show-down. Luckily, the boys kept things relatively clean until a boarding call on Perez just past the 10 min mark. I agreed, but also disagreed, with the call. Realistically, the ref has no choice but to make that call, but I still firmly believe that the players that put THEMSELVES in those positions should also be punished on a scale something akin to diving. Either way, once again the Rebels made no mistake and took the lead on a goal from Jones. So now, at that point, CG is 3 for 3 on the power play. It really doesnt take a genius to make the conscious effort to stay out of the box. BV did not disappoint and remained clean the remainder of the game. CG, however, could not. SURPRISE....not! Shortly after taking the lead, Henderson gets busted for a hold and the CCR line made some sick moves and had Gluck at their mercy. Chris Derochie tossed it out of the corner cross crease to Craig Martin who would have possibly been stopped on a blazing fast post-to-post move by Gluck, but instead tossed it BACK cross-crease to a waiting Ryan Edwards who had a mile of twine to shoot at. Effortlessly, he snapped the puck into the net and once again we are tied. BV out-shot CG in the 2nd 12-9 and headed into the intermission with the momentum tied at 3.
The third period was a testament tot he coaching of both these teams! Line matching was clearly evident although not always successful. CG pushed, but the Nitehawks defense was up to the task blocking more shots than could get through to a frazzled Perehudoff who didnt see a lot due to the constant traffic jam in front of him any time the puck was in the BV zone. 3:14 into the 3rd, the Rebels went ahead again on a scrambled play as Delong flipped a rebound over Perehudoff. When CG took two penalties :40 secs apart and gave BV a huge 1:20 2-man advantage, the arena was buzzing with the opportunity to tie and possibly pull ahead. Although they held good control, nothing would come of either penalty and the game would remain 4-3. Push as they might, Gluck stood his ground in all star fashion until 18:37 when Tyler Jones shot an errant puck out of play from the rebels zone. After conferring with his linesmen, ref Maniago (yes...THAT Maniago) called the penalty giving BV the late pp. Pushing even harder now, the Nitehawks had Gluck beat on a 5-hole slide play only to have it go through and out the other side of the crease. Gluck himself thought it had gone in and even hung his head in defeat, but only briefly. BV then pulled Perehudoff with just under a minute left giving them a 6 on 4 advantage. With that many bodies, the scrambles were epic! Tyler Collins was the "Johnny-on-the-spot" taking a pass from Calvin and beating Gluck to tie the game with :38 left in regulation. Whew!! The tension up to that point was INTENSE!! To add to it, with mere seconds on the clock, Martin danced from the half boards and almost won it on a beauty shot that was equaled by Glucks save.
As if we hadnt seen enough rocking hockey, we now get the pleasure of OT! In the extra frame, it was ALL BV! With the scent of blood in their noses, they dominated the play and caused raucous scrambles in front of Gluck. At 5:31, Ryan Edwards would locate a puck that squirted from a scramble in front of the net and slide it neatly past an outstretched Gluck to win the game!!
Game Stars:
BV - Ryan Edwards - Not surprising with 2 goals including the Game Winner
CG - Jordan Gluck - For the 2nd game in a row he has been the backbone of the CG team
BV - Tyler Collins - Also no surprise with 2 goals including the game tying goal
I fully expected this game to be ridiculous when it came to officiating given the ref was were presented with. While the first period was a tooth-clencher, it got easier to bear as the game progressed as it became apparent that nothing 'serious' was going to be tolerated. Fair enough, and seeing Morriseau getting tossed for a few choice words at the ref wasn't disappointing either. In a nutshell, I still think poorly of the officials as many things still went unnoticed. I hear people say to me, "But he refs in the dub!" My response is this.... ITS STILL A BLOODY PENALTY THERE TOO!!!
Out Of Town - Fernie took a 2-0 series lead over Kimberley in an 8-7 slugfest, Sicamous and Kelowna both evened their series's at 1 with wins over Kamloops and Princeton respectively.
Next up for BV is Friday March 9, and Sat. March 10 at the Complex in Castlegar. I know that I will be there, will YOU? Feel free to hit me up on twitter before or during the game.
Tuesday 6 March 2012
NM Division Final Game 1: Rebels/Nitehawks
(BV leads series 1-0)
Game 1: Rebels 1 - Nitehawks 4
What a game!!! THIS is what playoff hockey is all about! Fast-paced, hard-hitting, end-to-end action! Game 1 of the Neil Murdoch Division Final had all of the above. The barn was electric as tonnes of Rebel fans, who made the 45km trek south to cheer on their team, and a huge amount of Nitehawk supporters intermingled.
The first period was an ebb and flow of momentum as both teams relished puck control in the attacking zones while defenses were tested thoroughly. The entire period was so evenly matched that if not for a brief few seconds at the 9:30 mark, it could very well have been tied after 20. Brantley Schapansky would have none of that as he caught a Derek Lashuk arial pass and tossed it to his feet. Over the blue line and around the D, he made a move that was all goal-scorer and none of the board cruncher he is most known for. Alex Burrows himself couldn't have scripted it better as the forehand-backhand worked to perfection and BV grabs the all-important first goal! That lead would stand up into the intermission and spirits were high all over the arena. Shots were 14-14, which gives further indication as to how evenly match these two teams were in that period.
Coach Junker must have read the riot act during the first break as the Rebels came out with more determination. Their hard work and unbelievable passing eventually paid off on the power play as Eric Alden ripped a slapper from the point that beat "BIG" Mike Vlanich in the only place that was possible, post and in. Rebel fans exploded with excitement and the game was back to square one, literally. Despite further pressure and control, Castlegar was unable to add to it and we finished up the second knotted at 1.
Cue the tension!! If the 2nd period belonged to the Rebels, the 3rd was the Nitehawks! They re-asserted themselves and did not allow Castlegar to gain any purchase. Craig "Phenom" Martin gave BV the lead on a quick shot that beat Jordan Gluck low stick side just over 3 mins into the 3rd and the place went NUTS! I havent heard this much BV support all season!! Better late than never I guess. Just past the mid point and Martin pokes in another on a mad scramble in front of Gluck giving BV the 3-1 lead. Now, we have been HERE before! Three times this season, BV has held the lead late only to have Castlegar scramble and tie it to force OT. Tonight, however, they would NOT get that chance as Justin Niminiken hit the center of the net from his own blue line JUST as Gluck hits the bench. With a 3 goal lead and under a minute remaining, confidence was high that the win was solid, but the Rebels kept pressing and forced Vlanich to make some spectacular saves late. Nitehawks would hang on to win 4-1 and draw first blood in the series.
Games Stars:
BV - Mike Vlanich 31/32 saves
BV - Craig Martin 2G
CR - Jordan Gluck 30/33 saves
I would like to take a moment and recognize some talent here. Jordan Gluck proved to be an outstanding goalie who made sure that he kept his team in it. At least 10 of those 30 saves were legit strong scoring chances that he had to be extremely sharp on. The Rebels power play is also outstanding with the pass-pass-shoot and the Nitehawk defense HAD to bring their 'A' game to prevent damage.
Hardcore readers will have undoubtedly be waiting for this part....the officiating. What can I say that I haven't already. The quality of tonights game was sub-par as usual and to ME, it seemed to slant in Castlegars direction. I have found that I run out of word to describe it, and as it seems it will never be changed, will have to deal with it. Maybe I will just copy and paste rants from previous blog posts to save myself time and energy.
KIJHL Playoff Scores from tonight:
It was a home team sweep throughout the league. Riders fizzled the Nitros 5-2, Storm grounded the Eagles 4-2, and the Posse rode all over the Chiefs 5-1.
Next game for the Nitehawks is tomorrow night at 7pm in the BVA.
Game 1: Rebels 1 - Nitehawks 4
What a game!!! THIS is what playoff hockey is all about! Fast-paced, hard-hitting, end-to-end action! Game 1 of the Neil Murdoch Division Final had all of the above. The barn was electric as tonnes of Rebel fans, who made the 45km trek south to cheer on their team, and a huge amount of Nitehawk supporters intermingled.
The first period was an ebb and flow of momentum as both teams relished puck control in the attacking zones while defenses were tested thoroughly. The entire period was so evenly matched that if not for a brief few seconds at the 9:30 mark, it could very well have been tied after 20. Brantley Schapansky would have none of that as he caught a Derek Lashuk arial pass and tossed it to his feet. Over the blue line and around the D, he made a move that was all goal-scorer and none of the board cruncher he is most known for. Alex Burrows himself couldn't have scripted it better as the forehand-backhand worked to perfection and BV grabs the all-important first goal! That lead would stand up into the intermission and spirits were high all over the arena. Shots were 14-14, which gives further indication as to how evenly match these two teams were in that period.
Coach Junker must have read the riot act during the first break as the Rebels came out with more determination. Their hard work and unbelievable passing eventually paid off on the power play as Eric Alden ripped a slapper from the point that beat "BIG" Mike Vlanich in the only place that was possible, post and in. Rebel fans exploded with excitement and the game was back to square one, literally. Despite further pressure and control, Castlegar was unable to add to it and we finished up the second knotted at 1.
Cue the tension!! If the 2nd period belonged to the Rebels, the 3rd was the Nitehawks! They re-asserted themselves and did not allow Castlegar to gain any purchase. Craig "Phenom" Martin gave BV the lead on a quick shot that beat Jordan Gluck low stick side just over 3 mins into the 3rd and the place went NUTS! I havent heard this much BV support all season!! Better late than never I guess. Just past the mid point and Martin pokes in another on a mad scramble in front of Gluck giving BV the 3-1 lead. Now, we have been HERE before! Three times this season, BV has held the lead late only to have Castlegar scramble and tie it to force OT. Tonight, however, they would NOT get that chance as Justin Niminiken hit the center of the net from his own blue line JUST as Gluck hits the bench. With a 3 goal lead and under a minute remaining, confidence was high that the win was solid, but the Rebels kept pressing and forced Vlanich to make some spectacular saves late. Nitehawks would hang on to win 4-1 and draw first blood in the series.
Games Stars:
BV - Mike Vlanich 31/32 saves
BV - Craig Martin 2G
CR - Jordan Gluck 30/33 saves
I would like to take a moment and recognize some talent here. Jordan Gluck proved to be an outstanding goalie who made sure that he kept his team in it. At least 10 of those 30 saves were legit strong scoring chances that he had to be extremely sharp on. The Rebels power play is also outstanding with the pass-pass-shoot and the Nitehawk defense HAD to bring their 'A' game to prevent damage.
Hardcore readers will have undoubtedly be waiting for this part....the officiating. What can I say that I haven't already. The quality of tonights game was sub-par as usual and to ME, it seemed to slant in Castlegars direction. I have found that I run out of word to describe it, and as it seems it will never be changed, will have to deal with it. Maybe I will just copy and paste rants from previous blog posts to save myself time and energy.
KIJHL Playoff Scores from tonight:
It was a home team sweep throughout the league. Riders fizzled the Nitros 5-2, Storm grounded the Eagles 4-2, and the Posse rode all over the Chiefs 5-1.
Next game for the Nitehawks is tomorrow night at 7pm in the BVA.
Friday 2 March 2012
NM Semi Game 5 Postgame: Braves/Nitehawks
(BV wins series 4-1)
Game 1: Braves 3 - Nitehawks 6
Game 2: Braves 3 - Nitehawks 4 OT
Game 3: Nitehawks 7 - Braves 3
Game 4: Nitehawks 2 - Braves 3
Game 5: Braves 2 - Nitehawks 7
Games 3 and 4 were played in Spokane on Monday and Tuesday, so I was unable to attend but will give a quick breakdown.
Game 3: After being outshot badly in game 2, BV went on a tear and doubled up on Spokane monday night out shooting them 60-31! The first period was relatively even with the score 2-2 after 20 minutes and shots favoring BV 13-12. Goals by Martin and Calvin sandwiched SPO goals by Farmer and Dippolito. Period 2 was the beginning of the rout as BV collected 3 more goals to their 1 and out shot them 25-13. Johnson on a solo pp goal looked to be the only tally until less than 5 mins left and then it was 2 in :31 secs from Nims and Flanagan. Machuga answered :26 after that and it was 5-3 after 2. It was all BV in the 3rd with Martin collecting 2 more for the hatty and BV tossed 22 more pucks at Amatto to a paltry 6 in Perehudoffs direction for a 7-3 win and 3-0 series lead.
Game 4: Feeling superhuman after game 3, BV carried on the barrage of rubber towards Amatto scoring in the first minute on another Martin goal. SPO managed 2 goals in the first from Machuga and Farmer to take a 2-1 lead into the intermission. BV scored the only 2nd period goal late from Flanagan while continuing the shot onslaught. Amatto stole the show in the third as BV blasted him for 21 shots but was equal to all tasks while Tappe managed to sneak one of Spokanes 9 past Vlanich for the lead and eventual win.
Normally, Im the one to mention officiating, but since I was unable to make the games I could say nothing about it. The reports I got back from several people that took in the games was less than surprising and pretty much on par for the Nitehawks season. Apparently, officials were atrocious, and even more so in game 3. Like I said, these were independent reports that were passed along to me by several people and are not my descriptions. I have only changed the language that was used IN those reports...lol.
Enough, on to game 5 back here in BV!!
Nitehawks started the game without GM/Head Coach, Terry Jones. Why, you ask? Well, back to the previous topic of officiating, apparently it was bad enough to finally get to quite probably the classiest coach in all KIJHL. As a result, he was not allowed to sit behind the bench and had to take a birds eye view from the Hawks exec box. I wouldnt have wanted to be in there after watching the nasty game that was NOT called tonight!! The first period was mainly controlled by BV with the majority of play in the Spokane zone, yet somehow Spokane out shot BV 11-10 in a scoreless 20 minutes.
Spokane came out in the 2nd and looked like they wanted to take the play to BV and 1:02 in, did just that. Davis made it 1-0 Braves and Hawks fans were bracing for the worst. Cue up Nitehawks captain Chris Derochie! The CCR line gets BV back into it with a sweet inside-outside-backinside play from Deroch who dished it off to the 'Phenom' only to have it bounce back to him and into the back of the net it goes. Spear jumps on a loose puck to give BV its first lead of the game at 11:39, but Spokane would tie it up 4 mins later after Perehudoff made a great save but the puck bounced back out to the open side and Machuga just slips it in past an outstretched glove. Josh Peters gave BV the lead, after him, Baines and Boyczuk dominated on the boards, with 2:34 left and then that all important shift after a goal gets another one :31 seconds later and BV is now up 4-2 after 2. The Nitehawks frustration level towards the blatant missed calls started to rise near the end of the second and for good reason. High-sticks to the mouth, x-checks to the face, and even full blown muggings along the boards were completely ignored. They did, however, manage to hold their composure.
The third proved to be almost a reward for their patience and the complete undoing of the Spokane Braves. The first 10 minutes were back and forth with good chances on both sides. The Niminiken goal just before the midpoint was that proverbial "straw" that collapsed the house the Braves built. Dippolito, along with 2 others, full on attacked Collins at the Braves bench. Peters was the first to respond and refused the offer to fight with Dippolito (that woulda been a good tilt). After all was said and done, Dippolito was tossed with 2 for Illegal Hit to Head, 2 for Instigating, 5 for Fighting and a 10 min misconduct. Peters received 4 mins for roughing and so BV comes out with a 5 minute pp. Just over a minute in, and Spokane pulls off another multi-man mugging. This time its Farmer and Thurston who single out Spear. Before Thurston is escorted, he tries to pick a beef with Deroch, who absorbs it with a smile and skates away. Farmer gets a 10 min, while Spear and Thurston get 10 + 2 for roughing each. Again, less than 1 minute later, K.Redding attacks BV(didnt see who...sry) with a x-check to the head(5-min), a slash(2-min), and a game misconduct. At this point, BV still had 3:48 left in their original major pp and and now get to finish that time 5 on 3.Also, with only 6:55 remaining, they would be on the pp for the remainder of the game as Redding received 7 mins total on that scrum. Lashuk would take them off the 5 on 3 with a x-check of his own and McKinnon would bury a point shot while 4 on 3 to make it 6-2 with 5 mins left and BV still on the pp. Trevor Noldin did the smart defensive thing by giving the goalie his stick when it was knocked away from him. Then he turned around and did the most boneheaded thing he could do, pick up the goalies stick and play the puck. ref called that one immediately and once again BV has a 5-3 for 2 mins. Just content to control the play, BV kept it to the outside for the most part, but Johnson netts his 2nd of the night with :35 left to play and BV dispatches Spokane 7-2 to take the series win 4-1.
Game Stars:
BV - Chris Derochie 1G 1A - took control on the ice and his team followed
BV - Zach Perehudoff 31/33
SB - Branden Amatto 45/52 - kept SPO in the series and this game till midpoint of 2nd
I will say little about the officiating other than this, I thought we were trying to teach these kids to play the game properly, not to become goons by allowing them to get away with stuff until the game gets out of hand and the ref has to then get serious. BV is not an "angel" team and do have their fair share of infractions, but I believe they are one of the "cleanest" teams in this league. When they come up against a team like they did tonight who, granted, were fighting for survival, but also were allowed to do it in a fashion I thought was only restricted to the Nitehawks next playoff opponent, I wonder where the mentality of these officials stand.
Game 1: Braves 3 - Nitehawks 6
Game 2: Braves 3 - Nitehawks 4 OT
Game 3: Nitehawks 7 - Braves 3
Game 4: Nitehawks 2 - Braves 3
Game 5: Braves 2 - Nitehawks 7
Games 3 and 4 were played in Spokane on Monday and Tuesday, so I was unable to attend but will give a quick breakdown.
Game 3: After being outshot badly in game 2, BV went on a tear and doubled up on Spokane monday night out shooting them 60-31! The first period was relatively even with the score 2-2 after 20 minutes and shots favoring BV 13-12. Goals by Martin and Calvin sandwiched SPO goals by Farmer and Dippolito. Period 2 was the beginning of the rout as BV collected 3 more goals to their 1 and out shot them 25-13. Johnson on a solo pp goal looked to be the only tally until less than 5 mins left and then it was 2 in :31 secs from Nims and Flanagan. Machuga answered :26 after that and it was 5-3 after 2. It was all BV in the 3rd with Martin collecting 2 more for the hatty and BV tossed 22 more pucks at Amatto to a paltry 6 in Perehudoffs direction for a 7-3 win and 3-0 series lead.
Game 4: Feeling superhuman after game 3, BV carried on the barrage of rubber towards Amatto scoring in the first minute on another Martin goal. SPO managed 2 goals in the first from Machuga and Farmer to take a 2-1 lead into the intermission. BV scored the only 2nd period goal late from Flanagan while continuing the shot onslaught. Amatto stole the show in the third as BV blasted him for 21 shots but was equal to all tasks while Tappe managed to sneak one of Spokanes 9 past Vlanich for the lead and eventual win.
Normally, Im the one to mention officiating, but since I was unable to make the games I could say nothing about it. The reports I got back from several people that took in the games was less than surprising and pretty much on par for the Nitehawks season. Apparently, officials were atrocious, and even more so in game 3. Like I said, these were independent reports that were passed along to me by several people and are not my descriptions. I have only changed the language that was used IN those reports...lol.
Enough, on to game 5 back here in BV!!
Nitehawks started the game without GM/Head Coach, Terry Jones. Why, you ask? Well, back to the previous topic of officiating, apparently it was bad enough to finally get to quite probably the classiest coach in all KIJHL. As a result, he was not allowed to sit behind the bench and had to take a birds eye view from the Hawks exec box. I wouldnt have wanted to be in there after watching the nasty game that was NOT called tonight!! The first period was mainly controlled by BV with the majority of play in the Spokane zone, yet somehow Spokane out shot BV 11-10 in a scoreless 20 minutes.
Spokane came out in the 2nd and looked like they wanted to take the play to BV and 1:02 in, did just that. Davis made it 1-0 Braves and Hawks fans were bracing for the worst. Cue up Nitehawks captain Chris Derochie! The CCR line gets BV back into it with a sweet inside-outside-backinside play from Deroch who dished it off to the 'Phenom' only to have it bounce back to him and into the back of the net it goes. Spear jumps on a loose puck to give BV its first lead of the game at 11:39, but Spokane would tie it up 4 mins later after Perehudoff made a great save but the puck bounced back out to the open side and Machuga just slips it in past an outstretched glove. Josh Peters gave BV the lead, after him, Baines and Boyczuk dominated on the boards, with 2:34 left and then that all important shift after a goal gets another one :31 seconds later and BV is now up 4-2 after 2. The Nitehawks frustration level towards the blatant missed calls started to rise near the end of the second and for good reason. High-sticks to the mouth, x-checks to the face, and even full blown muggings along the boards were completely ignored. They did, however, manage to hold their composure.
The third proved to be almost a reward for their patience and the complete undoing of the Spokane Braves. The first 10 minutes were back and forth with good chances on both sides. The Niminiken goal just before the midpoint was that proverbial "straw" that collapsed the house the Braves built. Dippolito, along with 2 others, full on attacked Collins at the Braves bench. Peters was the first to respond and refused the offer to fight with Dippolito (that woulda been a good tilt). After all was said and done, Dippolito was tossed with 2 for Illegal Hit to Head, 2 for Instigating, 5 for Fighting and a 10 min misconduct. Peters received 4 mins for roughing and so BV comes out with a 5 minute pp. Just over a minute in, and Spokane pulls off another multi-man mugging. This time its Farmer and Thurston who single out Spear. Before Thurston is escorted, he tries to pick a beef with Deroch, who absorbs it with a smile and skates away. Farmer gets a 10 min, while Spear and Thurston get 10 + 2 for roughing each. Again, less than 1 minute later, K.Redding attacks BV(didnt see who...sry) with a x-check to the head(5-min), a slash(2-min), and a game misconduct. At this point, BV still had 3:48 left in their original major pp and and now get to finish that time 5 on 3.Also, with only 6:55 remaining, they would be on the pp for the remainder of the game as Redding received 7 mins total on that scrum. Lashuk would take them off the 5 on 3 with a x-check of his own and McKinnon would bury a point shot while 4 on 3 to make it 6-2 with 5 mins left and BV still on the pp. Trevor Noldin did the smart defensive thing by giving the goalie his stick when it was knocked away from him. Then he turned around and did the most boneheaded thing he could do, pick up the goalies stick and play the puck. ref called that one immediately and once again BV has a 5-3 for 2 mins. Just content to control the play, BV kept it to the outside for the most part, but Johnson netts his 2nd of the night with :35 left to play and BV dispatches Spokane 7-2 to take the series win 4-1.
Game Stars:
BV - Chris Derochie 1G 1A - took control on the ice and his team followed
BV - Zach Perehudoff 31/33
SB - Branden Amatto 45/52 - kept SPO in the series and this game till midpoint of 2nd
I will say little about the officiating other than this, I thought we were trying to teach these kids to play the game properly, not to become goons by allowing them to get away with stuff until the game gets out of hand and the ref has to then get serious. BV is not an "angel" team and do have their fair share of infractions, but I believe they are one of the "cleanest" teams in this league. When they come up against a team like they did tonight who, granted, were fighting for survival, but also were allowed to do it in a fashion I thought was only restricted to the Nitehawks next playoff opponent, I wonder where the mentality of these officials stand.
Sunday 26 February 2012
Nitehawks 2011/12 Year End Awards
On Sunday, February 19 2012, the Beaver Valley Nitehawks held their annual Year End Awards banquet. It was a fun filled affair with plenty of entertainment and laughter all around. A HUGE shout-out and heartfelt thanks to banquet organizer, Darlene Jones, whos ability to throw a party rivals the best of them :)
Contributions by parents, billets, and volunteers throughout the season were outwardly appreciated by the organization and coaching staff. Hearing some of the stories from the locker room allowed some of us to share in the world that we never got to be a part of, but have a passion for just the same. The coaching staff provided several funny anecdotes while introducing players, but it was the players themselves that stole the show, and so they should!
Here is the breakdown of the awards presented:
Most Valuable Player - Chris Derochie
Top Defenseman - Nick Perez
Top Forward - Dallas Calvin and Ryan Edwards
Top Rookie - Craig Martin
Most Popular Player - Tyler Collins
Most Dedicated Player - Arie Postmus
Most Inspirational Player - Josh Peters
Most Improved Player - Archie McKinnon
Pat Corrado Award - Mike Vlancih
Award of Merit - Mason Spear and Scott Davidson
Hit Man Award - Brantley Schapansky
Most Sportsmanlike Player - Justin Niminiken
Four Nitehawks are playing their final season with the team, and as per custom, had their game jerseys given to them to keep. Mason Spear, Josh Peters, Brantley Schapanksy, and Justin Niminiken, are all striving to exit the KIJHL on the highest note possible! I wish them all the success in their future endeavors and hope to be seeing them playing in a larger venue someday :)
For some reason, I was giddy at just having the honor of being invited, and so I fully neglected to take notes, pics, and get some quotes from some of the billions of volunteers that make up the fabric of this organization! Next year, I will be more on the ball and have a whole lot more to share with you all! Until then, lets continue to fuel and support the team we love and take them all the way!
Quote of the night...."...we have 2, lets get 2 more....!!"...source?...damn near everyone!!! (everyone but me because there was NO way I was getting anywhere near that mic!!)
Contributions by parents, billets, and volunteers throughout the season were outwardly appreciated by the organization and coaching staff. Hearing some of the stories from the locker room allowed some of us to share in the world that we never got to be a part of, but have a passion for just the same. The coaching staff provided several funny anecdotes while introducing players, but it was the players themselves that stole the show, and so they should!
Here is the breakdown of the awards presented:
Most Valuable Player - Chris Derochie
Top Defenseman - Nick Perez
Top Forward - Dallas Calvin and Ryan Edwards
Top Rookie - Craig Martin
Most Popular Player - Tyler Collins
Most Dedicated Player - Arie Postmus
Most Inspirational Player - Josh Peters
Most Improved Player - Archie McKinnon
Pat Corrado Award - Mike Vlancih
Award of Merit - Mason Spear and Scott Davidson
Hit Man Award - Brantley Schapansky
Most Sportsmanlike Player - Justin Niminiken
Four Nitehawks are playing their final season with the team, and as per custom, had their game jerseys given to them to keep. Mason Spear, Josh Peters, Brantley Schapanksy, and Justin Niminiken, are all striving to exit the KIJHL on the highest note possible! I wish them all the success in their future endeavors and hope to be seeing them playing in a larger venue someday :)
For some reason, I was giddy at just having the honor of being invited, and so I fully neglected to take notes, pics, and get some quotes from some of the billions of volunteers that make up the fabric of this organization! Next year, I will be more on the ball and have a whole lot more to share with you all! Until then, lets continue to fuel and support the team we love and take them all the way!
Quote of the night...."...we have 2, lets get 2 more....!!"...source?...damn near everyone!!! (everyone but me because there was NO way I was getting anywhere near that mic!!)
Saturday 25 February 2012
Postgame: Braves - 3 Nitehawks - 4 OT
(BV leads series 2-0)
Game 1: Braves 3 - Nitehawks 6
Game 2: Braves 3 - Nitehawks 4 OT
It came down to two things, focus and intensity! Both of which BV lacked, while Spokane had oodles to spare! For the first 59 minutes of regulation, Beaver Valley was outshot, outhit, and most definitely outplayed. The two goals in the 1st and 2nd by BV were against flow of play while the burst of offense by Spokane in the third was hard-work and determination for the payoff. It wasnt until the final minute of the game when something clicked and the REAL Nitehawks decided to show up. After what seemed like having an allergy to handling the puck all game, Ryan Edwards finally managed to net the cure and send the game into overtime. In the OT, it was all BV! They fully dominated like they did throughout the regular season and Max Flanagan was on the receiving end of a 2 on 1 with Edwards just 2:06 into OT to allow BV to take a 2-0 lead on the series heading back to Spokane for games 3 and 4.
Game Stars: (I actually agree with these ones!)
BV - Mike Vlanich 38 saves
SB - Uriah Machuga 2A - I dont think he took many shifts off....he seemed to always be on the ice
SB - Dylan Tappe 2A
Frustration on Spokane's behalf was apparent during the 1st and 2nd, but they managed to overcome that and have a solid third. This, however, is overshadowed by the classless acts after the final whistle. Dylan Tappe decided to stop briefly and correspond with BV fans on his way to the room. Things were done and said in both directions and I strongly disagree with the conduct of the fans, but also the lack of discipline of the player(and his coach who was behind him) to just walk away. During the game, the crowd around me mentioned several times how loud and vulgar the Spokane coach was during play. I'm not picking on him, but if it wasnt just ME that heard it, then maybe he needs to change the language up a bit....just sayin.
Now, I have no clue whether ref Eric Dasti had read my postgame report from the game he was here last, but he acted like it was never an issue and for that, deserves my respect. He handled the game efficiently and professionally, missed a few calls both ways but thats to be expected. I dont retract what I initially said, but merely say that tonight, he did a good job.
Nitehawks now travel to Spokane for games 3 and 4 on Feb 27-28 where they can finish out the first round and wait for Castlegar and Nelson to fight it out. That series is tied at 1 with a 2-1 win by Nelson tonight. Due to work, but mainly due to no passport(yet), I wont be attending the 2 away games even though I so desperately want to. So PLEASE, if anyone is going, send us some updates!!
Game 1: Braves 3 - Nitehawks 6
Game 2: Braves 3 - Nitehawks 4 OT
It came down to two things, focus and intensity! Both of which BV lacked, while Spokane had oodles to spare! For the first 59 minutes of regulation, Beaver Valley was outshot, outhit, and most definitely outplayed. The two goals in the 1st and 2nd by BV were against flow of play while the burst of offense by Spokane in the third was hard-work and determination for the payoff. It wasnt until the final minute of the game when something clicked and the REAL Nitehawks decided to show up. After what seemed like having an allergy to handling the puck all game, Ryan Edwards finally managed to net the cure and send the game into overtime. In the OT, it was all BV! They fully dominated like they did throughout the regular season and Max Flanagan was on the receiving end of a 2 on 1 with Edwards just 2:06 into OT to allow BV to take a 2-0 lead on the series heading back to Spokane for games 3 and 4.
Game Stars: (I actually agree with these ones!)
BV - Mike Vlanich 38 saves
SB - Uriah Machuga 2A - I dont think he took many shifts off....he seemed to always be on the ice
SB - Dylan Tappe 2A
Frustration on Spokane's behalf was apparent during the 1st and 2nd, but they managed to overcome that and have a solid third. This, however, is overshadowed by the classless acts after the final whistle. Dylan Tappe decided to stop briefly and correspond with BV fans on his way to the room. Things were done and said in both directions and I strongly disagree with the conduct of the fans, but also the lack of discipline of the player(and his coach who was behind him) to just walk away. During the game, the crowd around me mentioned several times how loud and vulgar the Spokane coach was during play. I'm not picking on him, but if it wasnt just ME that heard it, then maybe he needs to change the language up a bit....just sayin.
Now, I have no clue whether ref Eric Dasti had read my postgame report from the game he was here last, but he acted like it was never an issue and for that, deserves my respect. He handled the game efficiently and professionally, missed a few calls both ways but thats to be expected. I dont retract what I initially said, but merely say that tonight, he did a good job.
Nitehawks now travel to Spokane for games 3 and 4 on Feb 27-28 where they can finish out the first round and wait for Castlegar and Nelson to fight it out. That series is tied at 1 with a 2-1 win by Nelson tonight. Due to work, but mainly due to no passport(yet), I wont be attending the 2 away games even though I so desperately want to. So PLEASE, if anyone is going, send us some updates!!
Postgame: Braves - 3 Nitehawks - 6
(BV leads series 1-0)
Game 1: Braves 3 - Nitehawks 6
The weather wasn't friendly outside with snow falling over most parts of the Kootenays this evening. This didn't stop the Nitehawk faithful as they came to watch their league leading team begin the 2011/12 playoffs against the Spokane Braves!
Going against their normal routine, the Nitehawks exited the dressing room first and took the ice. I cant think of another time at any point in any game that the Nitehawks were the first to take the ice, either home or away. Before we could drop the puck, some league awards were given out.
Beaver Valley Nitehawks - Regular Season Champion Banner (presented to C.Derochie)
Chris Derochie - Neil Murdoch Division - Top Scorer & Most Sportsmanlike Player
Craig Martin - Neil Murdoch Division - MVP & Top Rookie
Terry Jones - Neil Murdoch AND League - Top Coach
Now, my sources have said that Osoyoos Coyote Dexter Dancs received honors for League Top Rookie. Not being able to see the boy play, I cant make any determination on that. But when you have a rookie that has one of THE best seasons of any rookie in a good number of years, and he doesnt win, there is something fishy. I'm a little biased sure, but lets look at the numbers here.
Craig Martin
Dexter Dancs
I can leave you all with that and you make your own ascertation as to what is up. Now, on to the game....
Spokane stunned the crowd at the BVA just 1:20 in on a failed pinch play that allowed Machuga and N.Redding to blast in 2-on-1. Redding didnt miss and it was 1-0 Braves quickly! Nitehawk captain, Chris Derochie ties the game 3 mins later on the pp to settle the crowd down. Craig Martin gives BV the lead just past the 10 min mark and Nick Perez gets another ppg before the period is out and BV takes a 3-1 lead into the break.
The first 5 minutes of period 2 was a carry-over from the first. BV controlled the majority of the play until Machuga took a X-checking penalty and the Nitehawks head to their third power play. Having been aces on the first two, they got lax and Spokane made them pay, bigtime!! Ref was screened slightly and thus missed a slew-foot on Niminiken that allowed the puck to be sent back around the BV net where it was tossed out front to Dippolito who made no mistake finding the back of the net. Just :24 later, Dippolito was at it again. This time he returned the favor and got it to Tappe who squeaked it past the outstreched glove of Perehudoff, and suddenly we have a tie game!! Two shorties in :24 seconds and the BV crowd has been stunned once more. Craig Martin rectified that and got his 2nd of the night on that very same power play to put some life back into the crowd once more and give BV the much needed 4-3 lead. A seeing-eye slapshot from Brantley Schapansky, that had Amatto stunned for what seemed like foreever, found the 5-hole and BV regained their 2 goal lead into the 2nd intermission.
The third period got rough! The first 10 minutes were well played with great chances and even better saves by Amatto. BV started to finish their checks and hammer their point across. Spokane tried to fight back, but their smaller size wasnt really affecting much other than to annoy the Nitehawks until an absolutely brutal shift that saw every Spokane player crushed through the boards with remarkably legal hits. After that, the frustrated Braves took several "silly" penalties that put them on the pk for the remainder of the game. In all the mix, Ryan Edwards scored a shorty of his own with the helper from Derochie.
Game Stars: (again, NOT chosen by me)
BV - Chris Derochie
BV - Craig Martin
BV - Ryan Edwards
The story of tonight was the return of rookie Scott Davidson! Having not played since Oct 15, some 42 games, Scott came out skating and hitting hard receiving a charging penalty on his very first shift of the night. Davidson was out with a knee injury that was suffered in an off-ice incident that required surgery to repair. Now that he is back, expect big things from the 16yr old in these playoffs!
I originally reported before the game, that Jacob Boyczuk and Dallas Calvin were healthy scratches. I was told that was NOT the case afterwards. Calvin is still being bothered by his lower body injury, while Boyczuks injury was undisclosed to me at this time.
Game 2 goes tomorrow, Feb 25th, at 7:30pm again at the Beaver Valley Arena. Thank You to all that braved the snow tonight to show your support for the Nitehawks!!
1-down....15 to go!!
Game 1: Braves 3 - Nitehawks 6
The weather wasn't friendly outside with snow falling over most parts of the Kootenays this evening. This didn't stop the Nitehawk faithful as they came to watch their league leading team begin the 2011/12 playoffs against the Spokane Braves!
Going against their normal routine, the Nitehawks exited the dressing room first and took the ice. I cant think of another time at any point in any game that the Nitehawks were the first to take the ice, either home or away. Before we could drop the puck, some league awards were given out.
Beaver Valley Nitehawks - Regular Season Champion Banner (presented to C.Derochie)
Chris Derochie - Neil Murdoch Division - Top Scorer & Most Sportsmanlike Player
Craig Martin - Neil Murdoch Division - MVP & Top Rookie
Terry Jones - Neil Murdoch AND League - Top Coach
Now, my sources have said that Osoyoos Coyote Dexter Dancs received honors for League Top Rookie. Not being able to see the boy play, I cant make any determination on that. But when you have a rookie that has one of THE best seasons of any rookie in a good number of years, and he doesnt win, there is something fishy. I'm a little biased sure, but lets look at the numbers here.
Craig Martin
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | G | A | PTS | P/G | +/- | PPG | SHG | GWG | GTG | PIM |
| 2011/12 | Beaver Valley Nitehawks | 50 | 48 | 48 | 96 | 1.9 | 0 | 18 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 17 |
Dexter Dancs
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | G | A | PTS | P/G | +/- | PPG | SHG | GWG | GTG | PIM |
| 2011/12 | Osoyoos Coyotes | 42 | 29 | 38 | 67 | 1.6 | 0 | 9 | 0 | 8 | 0 | 49 |
I can leave you all with that and you make your own ascertation as to what is up. Now, on to the game....
Spokane stunned the crowd at the BVA just 1:20 in on a failed pinch play that allowed Machuga and N.Redding to blast in 2-on-1. Redding didnt miss and it was 1-0 Braves quickly! Nitehawk captain, Chris Derochie ties the game 3 mins later on the pp to settle the crowd down. Craig Martin gives BV the lead just past the 10 min mark and Nick Perez gets another ppg before the period is out and BV takes a 3-1 lead into the break.
The first 5 minutes of period 2 was a carry-over from the first. BV controlled the majority of the play until Machuga took a X-checking penalty and the Nitehawks head to their third power play. Having been aces on the first two, they got lax and Spokane made them pay, bigtime!! Ref was screened slightly and thus missed a slew-foot on Niminiken that allowed the puck to be sent back around the BV net where it was tossed out front to Dippolito who made no mistake finding the back of the net. Just :24 later, Dippolito was at it again. This time he returned the favor and got it to Tappe who squeaked it past the outstreched glove of Perehudoff, and suddenly we have a tie game!! Two shorties in :24 seconds and the BV crowd has been stunned once more. Craig Martin rectified that and got his 2nd of the night on that very same power play to put some life back into the crowd once more and give BV the much needed 4-3 lead. A seeing-eye slapshot from Brantley Schapansky, that had Amatto stunned for what seemed like foreever, found the 5-hole and BV regained their 2 goal lead into the 2nd intermission.
The third period got rough! The first 10 minutes were well played with great chances and even better saves by Amatto. BV started to finish their checks and hammer their point across. Spokane tried to fight back, but their smaller size wasnt really affecting much other than to annoy the Nitehawks until an absolutely brutal shift that saw every Spokane player crushed through the boards with remarkably legal hits. After that, the frustrated Braves took several "silly" penalties that put them on the pk for the remainder of the game. In all the mix, Ryan Edwards scored a shorty of his own with the helper from Derochie.
Game Stars: (again, NOT chosen by me)
BV - Chris Derochie
BV - Craig Martin
BV - Ryan Edwards
The story of tonight was the return of rookie Scott Davidson! Having not played since Oct 15, some 42 games, Scott came out skating and hitting hard receiving a charging penalty on his very first shift of the night. Davidson was out with a knee injury that was suffered in an off-ice incident that required surgery to repair. Now that he is back, expect big things from the 16yr old in these playoffs!
I originally reported before the game, that Jacob Boyczuk and Dallas Calvin were healthy scratches. I was told that was NOT the case afterwards. Calvin is still being bothered by his lower body injury, while Boyczuks injury was undisclosed to me at this time.
Game 2 goes tomorrow, Feb 25th, at 7:30pm again at the Beaver Valley Arena. Thank You to all that braved the snow tonight to show your support for the Nitehawks!!
1-down....15 to go!!
Thursday 23 February 2012
Follow-up: Leafs/Nitehawks Blog Post
As suspected, the blogpost following the final game of the regular season between Nelson and Beaver Valley created something of a stir. Now, allow me to elaborate a bit more.
It was said that I have no respect for the officiating, that is untrue. I respect the difficulty of their job, and while they DO officiate in BCHL and WHL, that does NOT give them automatic respect regarding the job they do here in the KIJHL. They may also do a fantastic job there, but truth be told, I can only recall a few games where the officials performed their jobs adequately. Maybe I was a bit hard on Dasti, but I am passionate about the game and the team that I support. Again, this is MY perspective and opinion and is thus beyond debate, so please stop trying.
Yes, it is a drastically different viewpoint while sitting in the stands, and I really feel no different than anyone else, I've just had the guts to make my views and opinions public. Those that post anonymously are really the ones afraid of retribution. Also, those that posted and were rude and defamatory were deleted as this is a public blog and has language rules. As always, I welcome all comments, just keep it clean with no name calling. I'm also available to talk with at any home game, so don't hesitate to find me for a discussion :)
In regards to a deleted poster, I don't agree with you that this blog is an embarassment to the town and team. As previously noted, these are MY opinions and are NOT that of the team or organization. If anything, it shook some cages and got the discussion moving!
Finally, I changed the comment rules. You now require a Google ID to post, and posts will be moderated for language. I have accountability for my own posts, so should resonders, its only fair.
GO NITEHAWKS GO!!!
We have 2 banners already, let's add 2 more!!!
It was said that I have no respect for the officiating, that is untrue. I respect the difficulty of their job, and while they DO officiate in BCHL and WHL, that does NOT give them automatic respect regarding the job they do here in the KIJHL. They may also do a fantastic job there, but truth be told, I can only recall a few games where the officials performed their jobs adequately. Maybe I was a bit hard on Dasti, but I am passionate about the game and the team that I support. Again, this is MY perspective and opinion and is thus beyond debate, so please stop trying.
Yes, it is a drastically different viewpoint while sitting in the stands, and I really feel no different than anyone else, I've just had the guts to make my views and opinions public. Those that post anonymously are really the ones afraid of retribution. Also, those that posted and were rude and defamatory were deleted as this is a public blog and has language rules. As always, I welcome all comments, just keep it clean with no name calling. I'm also available to talk with at any home game, so don't hesitate to find me for a discussion :)
In regards to a deleted poster, I don't agree with you that this blog is an embarassment to the town and team. As previously noted, these are MY opinions and are NOT that of the team or organization. If anything, it shook some cages and got the discussion moving!
Finally, I changed the comment rules. You now require a Google ID to post, and posts will be moderated for language. I have accountability for my own posts, so should resonders, its only fair.
GO NITEHAWKS GO!!!
We have 2 banners already, let's add 2 more!!!
Sunday 19 February 2012
Postgame: Leafs - 3 Nitehawks - 4 OT2
Ok, enough procrastination! Normally I save this part for later on, but this has GOT to be changed for next season.
I THOUGHT I had witnessed the poorest officiating when BV visited Summerland last month, until last night! Referee Eric Dasti has got to be the leagues most despised official. His blind inconsistency has teams cringing at the mere sight of his name on the scorecard. Last night, he didn't disappoint. That game had no business going to overtime, and had Dasti not been lackadaisical in keeping up with play, he would have been able to make the right call on the Johnson (non)goal. Combine that with the late goal after the buzzer by Nelson in the 3rd that shouldn't have counted, and its a 4-2 regulation win for BV! Last night was a perfect example of why the league should adopt the 2 ref system.
Alright, enough, before I get excited again. Let's get to the actual game play shall we?
BV opened the scoring with Craig Martins 47th of the year on a scramble play in front of Defoe. Contrary to the scoresheet, the 1st period ended 1-0 BV. Neither team showed an advantage in control during the first.
The second period saw BV get into some penalty trouble with the help of above mentioned official who conveniently chose to ignore infractions by the Leafs (ahem...cough...elbow to the head...cough...cough). Credit Nelson, they made the most of their chances and buried 2 PPGs to take the lead 2-1. Martin. With his 2nd of the night ties the game at 2 and shortly afterwards, Johnson streaks down the right side and backhands a shot over Defoes left shoulder in and out of the goal. Clearly a goal, but again, called off because a lazy ref can't keep up with his job and follow play. Chis Derochie then gets his own garbage goal cleaning up in front and gives BV the 3-2 lead after 2. Nelson actually had the edge in play for that period but some key saves by Vlanich kept things tight.
Beaver Valley opened the third set on putting this game to bed! Missed chances and stellar net minding from Defoe was the only reason it remained 3-2 up until a highly controversial Leaf goal at the buzzer. I personally witnessed the buzzer going off as the puck was fired thus entering the net AFTER the period ended. Unfortunately, and ultimately not surprising, Dasti called it a good goal! I mean, come on! Give your head a shake there leroy!!! BV absolutely dominated that period with 90% of the play in the Leaf zone.
OT we go! 4on4 in the first overtime was good with chances at both ends but 5 mins settled nothing. 3on3 for 5 in the 2nd overtime was outright frantic! 2 on 1's were the name of the game here!! End to end action with brilliant saves from Vlanich and missed chances from the BV forwards. Ryan Edwards FINALLY solved Defoe to win the game and send the Leafs packing!!
Game Stars:
BV - Ryan Edwards (1G 2A) GWG
BV - Craig Martin (2G 1A)
BV - Archie McKinnon
The CCR line combined for 9 points on offense while Edwards and Derochie were in beastmode on the pk causing havoc in the Leaf zone!
I get a strong feeling there may be slight retribution to my above comments and feelings regarding the officiating so I therefore reinforce the fact that these are MY words and thoughts and in no way reflect the opinions of the Beaver Valley organization.
I THOUGHT I had witnessed the poorest officiating when BV visited Summerland last month, until last night! Referee Eric Dasti has got to be the leagues most despised official. His blind inconsistency has teams cringing at the mere sight of his name on the scorecard. Last night, he didn't disappoint. That game had no business going to overtime, and had Dasti not been lackadaisical in keeping up with play, he would have been able to make the right call on the Johnson (non)goal. Combine that with the late goal after the buzzer by Nelson in the 3rd that shouldn't have counted, and its a 4-2 regulation win for BV! Last night was a perfect example of why the league should adopt the 2 ref system.
Alright, enough, before I get excited again. Let's get to the actual game play shall we?
BV opened the scoring with Craig Martins 47th of the year on a scramble play in front of Defoe. Contrary to the scoresheet, the 1st period ended 1-0 BV. Neither team showed an advantage in control during the first.
The second period saw BV get into some penalty trouble with the help of above mentioned official who conveniently chose to ignore infractions by the Leafs (ahem...cough...elbow to the head...cough...cough). Credit Nelson, they made the most of their chances and buried 2 PPGs to take the lead 2-1. Martin. With his 2nd of the night ties the game at 2 and shortly afterwards, Johnson streaks down the right side and backhands a shot over Defoes left shoulder in and out of the goal. Clearly a goal, but again, called off because a lazy ref can't keep up with his job and follow play. Chis Derochie then gets his own garbage goal cleaning up in front and gives BV the 3-2 lead after 2. Nelson actually had the edge in play for that period but some key saves by Vlanich kept things tight.
Beaver Valley opened the third set on putting this game to bed! Missed chances and stellar net minding from Defoe was the only reason it remained 3-2 up until a highly controversial Leaf goal at the buzzer. I personally witnessed the buzzer going off as the puck was fired thus entering the net AFTER the period ended. Unfortunately, and ultimately not surprising, Dasti called it a good goal! I mean, come on! Give your head a shake there leroy!!! BV absolutely dominated that period with 90% of the play in the Leaf zone.
OT we go! 4on4 in the first overtime was good with chances at both ends but 5 mins settled nothing. 3on3 for 5 in the 2nd overtime was outright frantic! 2 on 1's were the name of the game here!! End to end action with brilliant saves from Vlanich and missed chances from the BV forwards. Ryan Edwards FINALLY solved Defoe to win the game and send the Leafs packing!!
Game Stars:
BV - Ryan Edwards (1G 2A) GWG
BV - Craig Martin (2G 1A)
BV - Archie McKinnon
The CCR line combined for 9 points on offense while Edwards and Derochie were in beastmode on the pk causing havoc in the Leaf zone!
I get a strong feeling there may be slight retribution to my above comments and feelings regarding the officiating so I therefore reinforce the fact that these are MY words and thoughts and in no way reflect the opinions of the Beaver Valley organization.
Saturday 11 February 2012
Postgame: Rockets - 1 Nitehawks - 6
For a team that has the regular season league points lead, one would think that bench boss, Terry Jones, would have the boys take it easy. If you DID think that, you would be sorely mistaken!
The first period started slow and conservative for Beaver Valley, until the scent of blood filled their nostrils in the form of a Jacob Boyczuk goal and all hell broke loose on a helpless Cole Henson. It became a shooting gallery with the Nitehawks controlling the play almost effortlessly. Henson, as helpless as he was with no sort of defense to speak of in front of him, was truly the only reason this game did not turn into a Grand Forks type of debacle! Against the flow of play, Golden scored one of their own on a rush to tie it up with just over 5 mins gone. Still, the Nitehawks pressed and were rewarded 2 times more on goals from Ryan Edwards and Dallas Calvin before the period was out to take a 3-1 lead the break.
While first period actual recorded shots on net were close, they favored BV 12-10. The second period was a different story completely! BV fully owned the Rockets, outshooting them 15-5 and collecting the only goals in that frame. Tyler Collins got the only ppg of the game for either team just over 3 min in. Max Flanagan potted the other late in the period to give BV a 5-1 lead after two.
The third period turned out to be a "coasting" period of sorts as BV turned the intensity down a few notches but still managed to control the play. After taking a slapshot off the ankle, Ryan Edwards limped to the bench in pain but would return for his very next shift. Several shifts later, he would show no effects of the shot block as he walked in past the D and snapped a wrister high glove-side just past the mid point.
Game Stars:
BV - Ryan Edwards 2G 1A
BV - Zach Perehudoff
BV - Jacob Boyczuk 1G
I have to wholly agree with the choice of Boyczuk for game star as he showed more poise and confidence tonight than I have personally witnessed all season! I was pleasantly surprized to watch and see him make decisions with the puck that even weeks ago he wouldn't make.
Tonight, I have to admit, was probably the best officiated game I have seen so far this season. There wasn't a penalty called until early in the second, and both teams received equal opportunities.
Congrats to the boys!!!
Tonights win was overshadowed by Revelstokes loss lst night to Kamloops. With that loss, BV moved into an uncatchable position atop the KIJHL, and clinched 1st place overall!!
Next game is tomorrow afternoon, 1pm at the Beaver Valley Arena!
On a final note, I humbly apologize for any and all writing/spelling errors that may be present in the above rabble as this was all done from my phone and it does not like me right now :(
Friday 10 February 2012
Lead-up to Year End
The 2011/12 KIJHL season is coming to a close soon, and with just 4 games remaining the Beaver Valley Nitehawks are poised to take explicit control of the regular season lead. After a split with Castlegar last weekend, the Nitehawks secured their first Neil Murdoch Division regular season title since 2006.
With an all-star line-up, they now stand just 1 point away from a guaranteed regular season League title! Technically, Revelstoke can tie BV in points, wins, losses, and even OT losses. But, since they havent played each other this season, they cannot go with the standard season series win-loss or goal-differential in games played together. The only mitigating factory that i can surmise is overall goal differential. Since BV has a HUGE lead in that aspect, it should be a lock....SHOULD!
The game vs Golden here at home on Saturday night will be the deciding game unless of course the Kamloops Blazers put a halt to their uncontrolled slide from the top and defeat Revelstoke Friday night. Regardless of how it happens, it WILL happen!!
After the season is over and finished, the Nitehawk organization has set up a banquet for the team, family, and friends. All are welcome to attend. Tickets are available to be purchased for $20/person up until Feb. 12th. After that, tickets will be $25/person. If you are interested, please contact Darlene Jones (250) 368-9858. The event will be held at the Riverbelle on Feb.19, 2012 at 5pm.
Last 4 games of the season breakdown like this:
With an all-star line-up, they now stand just 1 point away from a guaranteed regular season League title! Technically, Revelstoke can tie BV in points, wins, losses, and even OT losses. But, since they havent played each other this season, they cannot go with the standard season series win-loss or goal-differential in games played together. The only mitigating factory that i can surmise is overall goal differential. Since BV has a HUGE lead in that aspect, it should be a lock....SHOULD!
The game vs Golden here at home on Saturday night will be the deciding game unless of course the Kamloops Blazers put a halt to their uncontrolled slide from the top and defeat Revelstoke Friday night. Regardless of how it happens, it WILL happen!!
After the season is over and finished, the Nitehawk organization has set up a banquet for the team, family, and friends. All are welcome to attend. Tickets are available to be purchased for $20/person up until Feb. 12th. After that, tickets will be $25/person. If you are interested, please contact Darlene Jones (250) 368-9858. The event will be held at the Riverbelle on Feb.19, 2012 at 5pm.
Last 4 games of the season breakdown like this:
| 7:30P | Golden Rockets | Beaver Valley Nitehawks | Fruitvale - Beaver Valley Arena | |||||||||||||||||||
| 1:00P | Spokane Braves | Beaver Valley Nitehawks | Fruitvale - Beaver Valley Arena | |||||||||||||||||||
| 7:00P | Beaver Valley Nitehawks | Nelson Leafs | Nelson Community Complex | |||||||||||||||||||
| 7:30P | Nelson Leafs | Beaver Valley Nitehawks | Fruitvale - Beaver Valley Arena | |||||||||||||||||||
 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
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