The Jets and Hawks were the opening game for the MM Show Case Weekend and it definitely set the bar for the remaining games. This one had a little something for everyone. For the hockey purist, you saw plenty of skilled plays combined with some great play making. The goalies at both ends of the rink made unbelievable saves to keep their team in it and give them an opportunity to win. For the folks that like their hockey spiced up with a little grit and roughness, you got to witness some of that style too. This was not a game for the feint at heart. No question this was a battle, it was apparent from the drop of the opening face off that these two combatants were there to lay claim to the two points. Both teams gave 100% for the entire 60 minutes. It was like a play-off game only exception being that this one took place in January.
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The Jets would score the only goal of the first period. The Hawks would tie it up at one early in the second stanza on a goal from Shawn Pachet. The Hawks would score two quick ones in the first 4 minutes of the third period to go up 3 – 1 compliments of Mike Lorange and Beau Zelenewich. Mike Lorange would also be credited with 2 assists to give him a three point night, Shawn Pachet would earn an assist to give him a two point evening, Zach Heisinger would also have a two point game and Dylan Zeke would notch a single point for his efforts. Jets would score with over 9 minutes remaining on the clock to close the gap to one and make it nail biting time for the fans of both teams. Both teams had numerous good scoring chances but in the end, your Hawks earned a hard fought 3 – 2 victory, over a very tough opponent.
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All 5 goals in this game would be scored on the PP. Both teams were forced to fend off 5 minute majors and the Hawks had to also deal with a 5 on 3 for a full 2 minutes and 34 seconds. Speciality teams played major roles in the final out come of this game for both teams. The Hawks would go 3 for 8 on the PP and 5 for 7 on the PK. Ryan Hall turned in a strong performance, especially during Jet PP’s, stopped 21 of the 23 Jet shots to earn the win. Hawks registered 34 shots on the Jets goal.
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Next action in the Show Case Weekend for your Hawks is on Sunday, January 15 at 6:45 at the Ice Plex Remax Arena against the always formidable, St. Boniface Riels. Should be a dandy, hope to see you there.