This proved to be a very different game tonight from last night, almost two different teams. We had more of our team members come to play which made three forward lines and 2 defensive lines. We had players who could not train and so were a little out of step with those who had been to training. That made forming lines more difficult. Players who have not played much with each other do not read each others moves well. This inevitably leads to more tension on the bench and some frustration as well. The Bears had also regrouped and came back with more determination for this last game of the season.

First period saw us with 12 scoring opportunities for only one goal, this scored by Kath from Annelie. Their goalie had a target on the centre of her chest, which our shots found unerringly. What made it worse was that the Bears scored first, managing to slip one past Alex, one of only 4 attempts.

Anyone’s game as we head into the second one all. We had to work hard for all opportunities to score this period, 8 shots for 1 goal that was scored by Elisa from Larissa. The Bears put everything into defence and worked on a couple of breakaways which Alex handled well, it being much more difficult to defend when you are cold and standing around in net watching the game, it becomes harder to switch on to get ready for a shot when they come so infrequently and are so random. As any great goalie, Alex handled it well and did a sterling job.

The last period and frustration with how the game is unfolding are evident. The team have to regroup and continue to assault the Bears net to take this game out of their reach and that is just what we do. We have 17 shots this period for 2 goals. Annelie scores the first goal from Larissa, and then Jayne scores from Mel. The Bears maintain a strong attack and manage to get past our defence to put 7 shots on Alex. Without Alex in net the Bears could have won this game, they certainly were in with a good shot to do it with her in net as well.

MVP for this game goes to Alex, our ultimate defender. Alex did a first rate job in net despite being a little out of practice. Our team always feels secure with you in net and tends to push more at the opposition and may not be as quick to back check with you there. We will make sure that they back check as hard as they fore check for the finals Alex. Well done.