The Steinbach Pistons improved to 5-0 on the season with two dominating performances over the Waywayseecappo Wolverines this past weekend.
It was a very successful road trip for the Steinbach Pistons who went undefeated in a weekend series against the Wolverines. The visiting team exploded on offence over the course to the Saturday and Sunday games putting up 15 goals combined.
One big reason for the Pistons offensive outbreak was rookie forward Will Koop. On Saturday night, Koop recorded his fist MJHL hat trick along with an assist to top off a 4 point night for the 1998 born player that he soon won’t forget. When asked about his great start to the season, his first in Steinbach, Koop replied, “I’m feeling really comfortable on the team, and been getting used to the style of play in the league. I’ve had really great support from my linemates and team.”
On Saturday, Pistons got goals from Koop (3), Landon Plett and Mack Graham (2). Assists belonged to Mack Graham, Darby Gula, Julien Koga, Jordan Bochinski, Koop, Carter Chorney, Troy Williams (2), Bradley Schoonbaert (2) and Davis Beauchamp.
Roman Bengert picked up his fourth win of the season making 24 saves on the night. The power play finished 1-for-2 and Steinbach killed off all 4 penalties against.
On Sunday night, it was more of the same for the Pistons. They jumped out to a 3-0 lead after the first period with goals from Landon Plett, Mark Taraschuk and Bradley Schoonbaert.
Plett, in his first year in Steinbach, recorded his second hat trick in the MJHL finishing the night with three goals and an assist for a four-point night in the Pistons 9-1 victory. “Getting traded to Steinbach was a dream come true,” Plett said on the bus ride home Sunday night. “I’ve always longed to play junior hockey at home.”
The ’96 born forward from the southeast seems to be feeling just right, putting up 9 points in 5 games. “In the short while I’ve been here, I have realized how professionally this organization is run.” Plett continued. “I feel I fit in well here and look forward to what this season has in store.”
Steinbach’s goals on Sunday came from Plett (3), Julien Koga, Mack Graham, Taraschuk, Schoonbaert, Will Koop and Dawson Waddell. Assists to Tyler Anderson, Jordan Bochinski (4), Mack Graham (2), Sean O’Leary (2), Troy Williams, Max Cavallini, Julien Koga (2) and Plett.
It was the first opportunity for newcomer Matt Radomsky between the pipes for Steinbach, and while not overly busy, he was solid making 16 saves. The power play went 2-for-4, and the penalty kill finished perfect 2-for-2.
The wins over the weekend keep the Pistons in first place overall in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and are the only undefeated team in the league.
Steinbach will return to game action Wednesday night when they host the Winnipeg Blues (2-2-1). Puck is set to drop at 7:30pm at the T.G. Smith Centre.