The New Hamburg Huskies Midget LL3s were looking
to add to their victory total on December 3 when they hosted the Ayr Flames.
Skating hard and solid team play were the keys to success the previous week
when they forced a 3 – 2 decision against Woolwich. The Dogs had no intention
of changing that formula and hit the ice running putting the visitors on the
defensive.
With less than two minutes elapsed, the Huskies were on the board. A nice breakout from Owen Ross found Nathan Gerber forcing the offensive zone. A cross crease pass to Alex Wagler was on the tape and the Flames goalie had no chance. Wagler would do more damage on his next shift. A defensive zone turnover saw him race up ice, split the defense and beat the goalie on the backhand. The pressure continued as the second period began with both sides taking penalties. The Dogs were unable to capitalize on a 5 on 3 opportunity and Ayr bounced back when even strength returned. Their goal late in the frame allowed for only a brief celebration because the Pack immediately responded. Gavin Banwell working hard on the boards, found Alex Wagler open who then immediately fed Gerber who was rushing up the middle. He split the defense and buried the biscuit in the top corner to re-establish the 2-goal lead. More Husky pressure in the third kept Ayr chances to a minimum. Carter Schwartzentruber made 3 back to back saves late in the frame to stymie Ayr’s best efforts of the game and allowed his team to rebound. Charlie Slessor, getting help from Ryan Pierson, tallied the finisher with seconds remaining to secure the 4 – 1 win. The Dogs hope to continue the success story when they travel to Tillsonburg next week to take in some tournament action.