MIDGET “A” BULLDOGS LOCK UP DIVISION 1

The league leading Van Isle Ford Midget Bulldogs faced off against second place Cowichan Valley Capitals on Sunday January 15th in front of some 250 fans at the Multiplex. These are two very competitive teams and the outcome of the game was uncertain until the final buzzer.

Although the Bulldogs controlled most of the play and outshot the visitors 39-16, the Capitals had built a 2-0 lead going into the third period. They were still ahead with 4 minutes left. Cowichan goalie Jesse Jenks had turned away all 35 Bulldog shots and time was running out.

Greg Tuckerman (14) gets his stick on the puck to make sure of the winning goal against Cowichan on Sunday. Colby Lim (21) deflected Cory Beecroft's point shot.

Then with 3:38 left, Tyler Wilhelm, on the point for a power play, took a pass from Cameron MacAdams and slammed it past a screen and through the five hole. A minute later Nathan Read passed across to Ryan Buse at the other point. Cory Beecroft tipped Buse’s slap shot in to even the score. Then with only 57 seconds to go Beecroft made a low shot from the point that Colby Lim redirected in front. It bounced off the goalie’s stick and over his shoulder to finally be batted in by Greg Tuckerman.

Cowichan pulled the goalie for an extra attacker, but the Bulldog team defence and goalie Gianni Crema held off the last ditch assault to hold on for the 3-2 victory.

Coaches Brent Demerais and Rob Gaudreault both had the same words after the game, “They didn’t quit.” They started hard, finished harder and demonstrated the kind of tenacious team effort that will be needed in the upcoming play-offs.

Bulldog players congratulate each other after their first goal against the Capitals late in the third period on Sunday. Left to right, Cameron MacAdams (16), Nathan Read (18), Colby Lim (21), Greg Tuckerman (14) and Tyler Wilhelm (9).

Before leaving the ice, the players took a moment to raise their sticks in salute to the family, friends and supporters who came out to cheer them on. The team thanks all their fans and also major sponsor Van Isle Ford.

The win gives Alberni Valley a seven point lead in Division 1 (9 wins, 1 loss and 1 tie in league play) and eliminates the Capitals chance of being able to catch up before the season ends. The Bulldogs will be at home against Nanaimo T1 Clippers on Sunday January 22 at 5 PM for their final game of the regular season.

Proud sponsor of the Midget "A" Bulldogs

Submitted by Simon Read