Klippers vs. Battlefords
Friday, February 21st was the date for the showdown at the WCEC’s InterPipeline Arena.
This was the first of two games that the Kindersley Jr. Klippers almost desperately needed some points from. But alas, the visiting Battleford North Stars had other plans. This was indeed an extremely physical game which included several fights and assorted “hard play”. It was obvious from the outset that both teams came to play.
The third period was exciting as the Klips took a 2 to 1 lead, however, 2 goals by Battleford proved to be the difference. A miscue by Klipper defenceman Mason Eggen led directly to a North Star goal and the third goal was a power play marker. They boys gave their all, again, and unfortunately fell by a final score of 3 to 2.
Shots on goal were similar, 36 for Kindersley vs 32 for Battleford. 612 fans took in the game and several Battleford fans could be heard yelling, some obscenities and some encouragement. Even an octopus was thrown on the ice after the first Klipper’s goal. The linesman who had to dispose of it found a plastic pail, scooped it up and took it to the time keepers bench.
Coach Jardine pulled goalie Brett O’Halloran late in the third for an extra attacker but that move didn’t pan out this time and with a face-off deep in the Battleford zone in the final seconds, this seemed like the perfect opportunity to even up the game. However, emotions got the better of a number of players at the final buzzer. Game misconducts and fighting majors dominated, as these players jockeyed for position and assert their dominance over the others. The linesmen and women had their hands full trying to separate these bigger players. Not an enviable job to be sure!
Game 2 in Battleford on Saturday night could prove to be another barnburner. These two teams have been fierce rivals for a number of years and sometimes the emotional aspect of the game takes over. Not necessarily a bad thing as long as it doesn’t cost your team.
The final home game of this season is scheduled for March 15 as these same Battleford North Stars make an appearance in Kindersley. Assuming all stays the same, we would be in the play-offs. Looks like the LaRonge Ice Wolves are making some waves and are currently only 4 points behind us and we have 2 games in LaRonge on March 1st and 2nd. These two games are critical if we want to put some space between us and them and at least make the play-offs.
Go Klippers Go!
By Kevin Martin
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