The Steinbach Pistons head to Winkler to faceoff against the Flyers in Game 2 of the MJHL quarterfinals.
The Pistons were able to establish zone time and put pucks on net, getting 31 shots in game 1, but struggled to maintain dominance and the lead. Penalties were the demise of the Pistons in game 1 as they were shorthanded 8 times and were assessed three separate hit to the head penalties. The Pistons played a very physical and hard-hitting game throughout, unfortunately taking some liberties along the way. Goaltender Dominik Wasik stopped 18/23 shots he faced. The Pistons had won 5-straight games against the Flyers going into last night with that obviously coming to an end in the 5-4 OT loss.
Winkler had spurts where they were a very dominant team and capitalized on their chances. The Flyers were able to maintain good zone time and generate scoring chances from that. Malachi Klassen saved 27/31 shots he faced throughout the game, making some key stops. Winkler will look to build off of last night’s win on home ice to extend the series to 2-0 heading back to Steinbach on Tuesday.
SPECIAL TEAMS:
PISTONS: PP 2/4 – 50% PK 7/8 – 87.5%
FLYERS: PP 1/8 – 12.5% PK 2-4 – 50 %
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Pistons: Landon Roberts
Landon Roberts is a force to be reckoned with as he will lay the boom. Roberts’ style of play generates energy for the players and the fans and is a definite difference maker. Roberts also has a great 200-ft game, where he will generate offense with his high hockey IQ but also back checks hard and disrupts the opposing team’s offence in his own zone.
Flyers: Zach Nicolas
Zach Nicolas had two goals in game 1 with one being a very beautiful and timely goal, tying the game up late in the third period. Nicolas sets himself up for success by finding himself in the right place at the right time, but he also is great at generating offence. Nicolas also uses his big frame to his advantage to disrupt play and set up offence.