The Larry Hudson Mitchell Midget Reps traveled part way last Thursday evening to play in our first OMHA play off game (best of 5), against the Kincardine Kinucks, only to be forced back just miles away from our destination due to inclement weather and road closures. This postponement would shift the home ice advantage to Mitchell for our first OMHA playoff game on Sunday evening in Mitchell, where we hosted one of the first placed teams in our league.
The tension could be cut with a knife as the black rubber hit the ice to start the game. The first period was a battle that the goalies would decide. With the play going back and forth and questionable penalties called on both sides, the goalies decided the first period would end the way it started…tied.
Early in the second period, the Mitchell Reps found themselves in an uncomfortable 5 on 3 situation and the visitors did not miss the opportunity to strike, lighting up the score board for the first time in the game and making it 1-0.
The teams reappeared after the intermission, signalling the start to the third and the continuation of the parade to the penalty box, however it would be Mitchell’s turn to take the advantage of a power play. Defenceman Braden Vosper launched a rocket from the point towards the target and Conner Lockhart skillfully deflected it into the back of the net, tying the game at the half way mark in the third. Kincardine quickly answered back, taking the lead back 2-1 and showing why they have not loss this year. Mitchell drew another penalty and Kincardine true to form added the insurance goal. With our net minder on the bench, Mitchell desperately fought back, however the game finished at 3-1.
Although a loss, there were many positives to take away from this game and look forward to our next game with them this weekend. The Larry Hudson Mitchell Midget Reps travel to Listowel to play first place Cyclones Monday evening for the first game of the WOAA series.