Under 13 (U13) - U13-C
Storm Watch: 14th Edition
Storm Watch: 14th Edition
The Cyclones returned to regular season action on Tuesday and spectators wondered how the team would respond after their narrow defeat in the semi-finals at the Belleville New Year's Classic. This would mark the third meeting between the Cyclones and the Gloucester Stars. The Cyclones came in leading the series 2-0. Talks before the game were focused on moving forward. Controlling nerves, visualizing, being confident in what each player brings to the team. Coaches were surprised at how calm the team was. In true Cyclones fashion, this was just the calm before the storm.
Though the score was very close, it was no indication of the true gameplay. The Cyclones were dominant from the beginning. Shot after shot, however, was turned away by a tremendous Gloucester goaltender. Rebounds were pounced on as the Stars collapsed in front of the net. Cyclone's tender, Piper Nicholson, was tested early and kept the door shut. The Pipes between the Pipes was looking strong. The defense also demonstrated great patience and confidence with the puck. A full team effort kept the ice tilted for most of the game.
Despite the strong play of the Cyclones, the Stars would strike first. The visiting fans erupted with bells and cheers. Once again, the Cyclones found themselves facing adversity. But the pressure was maintained. Another hit to the team came late in the second period when the Cyclones found themselves in penalty trouble. But my goodness, the penalty kill!!! The Stars had no answers for the Cyclones intense pressure. Ladies and gentlemen- check off "short-handed goal" on your hockey bingo cards. Shaelin Chalmers battled out of the corner in the offensive zone and fired a shot upstairs where the antique candles are kept carefully out of the reach of young children. The Cyclones were back in the game! A huge feat as the Cyclones have had trouble coming from behind this season.
The third period was much of the same. The Cyclones were firing shots from all angles. Chances were a plenty. But the Star's tender was not having any of it. Finally, with 2:43 left in the third period, Shaelin Chalmers netted her second of the game. Ella Anderson and Chloee Carmody got the helpers. And with time running down, Carmody found herself under attack in her own end. A heads-up play saw her fire the puck out of the zone and the Cyclones bench counted down the clock to celebrate a win in their first regular season game of 2023. For those keeping track, that is now 8 regular season games in a row without a loss. When the Cyclones are rolling, clear a path.
See the Cyclones in action this Thursday as they take on the Kanata Rangers. The girls are a mighty different team than they were when these teams last met. A storm is brewing! (Literally, the forecast is not good. Please drive safely.) Go Cyclones Go!
Player of the Game
Chloee Carmody
