Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Sockeyes get the job done, squeak by the tattered Panthers 3-2

On paper they are the worst team in the PJHL, but on Thursday the Port Moody Panthers proved to be a much tougher task on the ice as the Richmond Sockeyes were able to edge the feisty cats 3-2 at the 'Ru.

The Sockeyes managed to regain their lead atop the Tom Shaw Conference over the Delta Ice Hawks with the win - putting them one point ahead of their divisional rivals. With the squeezed-out victory, they also got back in the "win" column after a tough loss to the hot Aldergrove Kodiaks. Richmond has now won eight of their last ten.

The majority of the first period was about as sleepy as the winter weather outside. The Sockeyes had played the night before in their defeat to the hands of the Kodiaks, and it was quite evident it took them a while to get their legs going. The Port Moody Panthers, who came into the game with only a total of five wins on the season, stayed on par with the Sockeyes - not generating much offense at all, but did enough to make them look better than the bottom-feeding team they are. Finally in the last four minutes of the period, Stephen Campbell and Daniell Lange popped in one each past goaltender Angus Redmond to give the Sockeyes the lift they needed before heading to the dressing room. It stood 2-0 Sockeyes after one.

Coming into the second frame, it seemed that the Richmond powerhouse would've continued steamrolling the struggling Panthers, taking the easy route to an easy victory, but instead it proved to be quite the opposite. Dean Allison netted an absolute beauty as he streaked down the left wing to make it 3-0 Sockeyes, but that was as loud as Richmond would roar on Thursday night. The Sockeyes took a firm, yet still slightly unstable 3-0 lead into the third.

In the final period it seemed the Sockeyes would indeed coast to victory, but then about half way through the period, the Panthers finally found the energy to generate a roar of their own. Joshua Spence surprised Kootenay Alder to close the gap to 3-1, and then Spence struck again with under three minutes left to go to make it interesting, 3-2. In the dying stages of the game however, the Port Moody team showed examples of what truly stands to epitomize their entire season - troubles really getting anything going to give them a chance. It wasn't the prettiest piece of ice hockey the Sockeyes have ever put on display at the 'Ru, but it got the job done, closing out a 3-2 final over the panting Panthers.


Brief Game Notes:
1. Sockeyes: 0/1 on the powerplay
2. Final shot count: 42-23 for Sockeyes
3. Third victory over Port Moody this season

Scratches:
1. Bret Higham
2. Jake Roder
3. Dominic Centis 

Three Stars:
1. Daniell Lange
2. Joshua Spence
3. Rudi Thorsteinson


Be sure to catch the next home game vs. Abbotsford live from the 'Ru next Thursday, December 20th, on www.richmondsockeyes.com. Pre-game 7:20, puck drop 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 8, 2012

Sockeyes keep rolling... and look who's back!

It was an emotional night at Minoru Arena. No, the Sockeyes were not playing a traditional rival. No, the game was never really in question for the home team. No, the game-winning goal did not come in the final minute of the third period or in overtime. Instead, sentiments emoted within the crowd and on the home bench with the return of a player - Jake Roder (@jakeroder) reminded all present what it took to win the 2010-11 PIJHL championship. The "Red Line" re-united again, since that great run. The onlookers on Thursday however, may argue that it was like they were never apart.

And what a triumphant return it was. Roder came back to the 'Ru and his former PJHL team, while playing alongside Rudi Thorsteinson (@rudithor) and Jeremy Hamaguchi (@guchh). He scored 2 goals and added an assist in a comfortable 6-1 for the Richmond Sockeyes. The Allison (@deanallison21), Tait (@danieltait94), Chichak (@shemchichak) line continued their hot streak by combining for 11 points. 

It was a lackluster showing for the visiting North Vancouver Wolf Pack - the last team in the conference coming into the game lived up to their current standing as they faced the red hot Sockeyes who are winners of 7 of their last 8.

Perhaps the only disappointment of the night for Richmond came with 2:40 left in the game, as Marcus Houck put the lone goal in for the visitors ruining William Latimer's (@goalieslut) bid for his second shutout in three games. Latimer's numbers as a Sockeye have been remarkable. His miniscule 0.75 GAA and .972 save percentage are signs that the 18-year-old has adapted to his new colours since leaving the Mission City Outlaws. 

Three Stars:

1. Sam Chichak
2. Daniel Tait
3. William Latimer


Sunday, November 25, 2012

Hamaguchi thrills in OT again, Sockeyes stump Devils 3-2

For the second time this season, by the same score, Jeremy Hamaguchi delivered electrifying heroics in overtime at the 'Ru and the Richmond Sockeyes claimed a big "W" to extend their winning streak to three.

The first 3-2 overtime victory came on October 11th over the Abbotsford Pilots, while this past Thursday, the punch was landed on the conference opponent North Delta Devils, who were starting to come on hot in the standings. Also notably in the standings, the Delta Ice Hawks were riding a two-game losing slide - a great little window of opportunity for the Sockeyes to makeup some ground for top spot in the Tom Shaw Conference and overall PJHL.

Well, that's exactly what the Sockeyes did - and with no lack in dramatic fashion to put the cherry on top.

The first period was lackluster at best. Both teams struggled to find clean, clear cut offensive opportunities and establish an edge over the other team. Although the Sockeyes managed to outshoot the Devils 13-3 in the first period, with the full week Richmond had in preparation for Thursday night's tilt, it certainly appeared the team wasn't firing on all cylinders early. The first frame ended 0-0.

In the second, the hockey game started to find its life. About midway through the period, on a mad scramble in front of Devils goalie Steve Myland, Danton Heinen was able to pop it into the back of the net to make it 1-0 Sockeyes, as the young rookie forward continues to shine. Then, only 18 seconds later, the North Delta Devils snatched the goal right back as Colin Catchpole was able to break in on the wing and beat Kootenay Alder five hole on a harmless-looking shot. Just like that, the game had picked up tremendously in pace, but the result would remain the same through the entire period - a tie.

In the third period, the trend continued - again the game would feel the tie break, but only for a brief moment. This time it was the Devils who jumped out to the lead with a quick tally just over one minute and a half into the period, but it didn't take long for the Sockeyes to respond. Just over two minutes after the Devils made it 2-1, Jeremy Hamaguchi slotted one past Myland on the powerplay to knot it back up at two's. The rest of the period would go back and forth, but neither team could find that last, late decisive goal to punch their way to victory in regulation time.

In the first overtime period of four-on-four nothing would change and the game would reach its last stage - three-on-three. Then, with Daniel Tait coming off the bench with fresh legs, paired with Hamaguchi and Matt Wagner on the point, the stage was set. Off the draw in the offensive end, Tait picked up the puck and wheeled all the way around into the corner, creating the perfect amount of space and separation to find Hamaguchi at the side of the net with a perfect pass. Guch would make no mistake and barry it top shelf, right where all the the leftover Halloween candy is stashed. 3-2 Sockeyes  in overtime. Hamaguchi the hero, on an absolutely brilliant passing effort from Daniel Tait. What a finish, as the Sockeyes extend their win streak to three.


Brief Game Notes:
1. Sockeyes: 1/2 on the powerplay
2. Final shot count: 36-20 for Sockeyes
3. Second time this season Richmond wins 3-2 in overtime on home ice with Hamaguchi winner

Scratches:
1. Dylan Friel
2. Dominic Centis
3. Adam Nishi

Three Stars:
1. Jeremy Hamaguchi
2. Danton Heinen
3. Colin Catchpole


Be sure to catch the next home game vs. Grandview live from the 'Ru next Thrusday, November 28th, on www.richmondsockeyes.com. Pre-game 7:20, puck drop 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Sockeyes Extinguish the Flames 8-1

The Sockeyes finally got off to a desired quick start, never eased off the accelerator, as they beat the Ridge Meadows Flames 8-1 Thursday night.

The first goal came just 1:34 in when Bret Higham showed he does have a bit of scoring prowess. Higham, who usually puts his name on the score sheet under the PIMs, received a beautiful feed from rookie Lawson and did not miss. Dan Heinen stood out as the best Sockeye in the first period - he did that by putting home two goals in the first ten minutes. Heinen narrowly missed a natural hat-trick as he had a glorious chance from the slot that went just high and wide of the net. Regardless, the home side put 3 goals on 21 shots on the board after the first.

Travis Oddy and the Flames wouldn't take long to answer in the second. Oddy, scored a beautiful goal from a feed by teammate Marco Ballarin.Stephen Campbell would bring Richmond's reaction just a minute later. The top line of Allison, Tait and Chichak didn't fall behind as they would take part in the next two tallies. Richmond took a 6-1 lead to the locker room after 2.

Lawson and Tait would add goals in the third. The home side showed a full team effort, as all four forward lines got a into the scoring. Kootenay Alder only faced 20 shots, but was very sharp when he needed to be. From start to finish it was Sockeyes dominance. The next game goes on Thursday at the 'Ru. Face-off is at 7:30.


Scratches:
1. Adam Nishi


Three Stars:
1. Dan Heinen
2. Daniel Tait
3. Bret Higham


Sunday, November 11, 2012

Bittersweet night at the 'Ru: Sockeyes fall to Delta, honour alumni

On a night where players who once wore Sockeyes sweaters in the past were honoured, it was the ones on the ice that felt the tough feeling of defeat.

Thursday was a special night at the 'Ru, as Sockeyes alumni piled into the arena to celebrate the 40th anniversary year of the great hockey club. What made it even more special - the Delta Ice Hawks were in town for the latest installment of their rich rivalry - one that has certainly transcended through Sockeyes history.

For the second time this season, the Sockeyes were held scoreless on home ice against the Ice Hawks in a tight 3-0 loss. Coming into the game, Richmond was six points back of Delta for top spot in the Tom Shaw Conference and PJHL, desperate to make up some ground on the rolling Ice Hawks who were riding a 8-0-1-0 streak without a loss.

The first and second periods were very much alike - they finished the way they started, tied at 0-0, and saw both teams fighting to establish a clear edge or momentum swing over the other. Both sides battled relentlessly trying to sustain pressure on one another in the offensive zones, but overall the game had a hard time finding a steady pace due to the myriad of blown whistles. Whether it was an icing, an offside, a puck out of play, or a penalty being called, each whistle stifled the fluidity of the game and resulted in much of the play occuring in neutral ice territory. At the end of the first period, Richmond outshot Delta 10-7, but much like was the back-and-forth trend, Delta came back in the second to outshoot the Sockeyes 11-5.

The third period was poised to be an absolute thriller - the main act of the night. The building was buzzing and tense, giving it the feel of a playoff game on the verge of busting out at the seams. Unfortunately for the Sockeyes, it was the Ice Hawks who managed to do just that. The most critical, and in many respects the most controversial play of the game, came on a penalty shot call. Michael Olson-Eyre was streaking down the left wing to break in on Kootenay Alder, and while defenseman Scott Wessa appeared to have him angled cleanly, Olson-Eyre went down, the referee's arm shot up, and the 0-0 game met it's climax - a penalty shot. The most exciting play in hockey.

Olson-Eyre broke in making it seem like he was going to put on a deke, but the cheeky stutter was enough to draw Alder's legs apart and the five-hole was left wide open. Just three and half minutes into the third, and the 'Ru felt deflated at the 1-0 score. Then, just over a minute later, the Ice Hawks delivered another shot to make it 2-0. Just like that, although the scoreboard only showed a two goal deficit, it seemed like the Sockeyes saw the game go out of reach. Besides only a couple of quality Richmond scoring chances, the Delta powerhouse dominated the third period, and they would put a stamp on it with a late goal from Anthony Brito for his league-leading 21st goal of the year. The win marked their third consecutive 3-0 shutout victory, and more importantly added two more points of separation in the standings between themselves and the Sockeyes.


Brief Game Notes:
1. Sockeyes: 0/6 on the powerplay
2. Final shot count: 36-30 for Delta
3. Second time Sockeyes have been shutout by Ice Hawks on home ice this season

Scratches:
1. Dylan Friel

Three Stars:
1. Scott Lapp
2. Michael Olson-Eyre
3. Jeremy Hamaguchi


Be sure to catch the next home game vs. Ridge Meadows live from the 'Ru next Thursday, November 15th, on www.richmondsockeyes.com. Pre-game 7:20, puck drop 7:30 p.m.

Thanks again to all the alumni who came out to support the Sockeyes and celebrate the 40th anniversary of the franchise!

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Sockeyes tame the Outlaws 4-1


The 'Ru has been a sweet place for the Richmond Sockeyes this season. On Thursday they earned their 8th victory in their home rink while only losing one game there.

The team got off to an uncharacteristic, yet pleasant strong start. Mission goaltender Brenden Sharp needed to be on his game early on as he faced 16 shots in the first stanza. Ironically, the shot that would beat him was a weak one from the face-off circle by rookie Daniell Lange which would squeeze between Sharp's pads. Mission was fortunate to only be down 1-0 after the first period as the Sockeyes completely dominated the play in all aspects.

It was a different start to the second, as Mission were the aggressors from the opening period face-off. The shots on goal scoreboard after the first period read 16-5 for Richmond. Near the halfway point of the second period it only favoured the home side 17-16. Mission's game plan was clearly to tilt the ice by moving their legs, forechecking, and generating more shots on goal. Richmond was able to withstand the pressure they faced in the first 10 minutes of the second nicely, and found their stride. Newcomer William Latimer did a nice job of seeing the puck most of the night against his old team. His only mistake would come near the end of the period, ironically, when the Sockeyes were playing their best hockey of the period. Ryan Procyshyn was a nice rush towards the next and took a shot that went off Latimer's left pad. Unfortunately for him he left the rebound right in front of the net and Procyshyn's momentum carried him to an empty net. The period would end knotted at one.

Richmond finally played to their full potential during the final period. Generating scoring chances by using a mix of creativity, grit, forechecking and shooting from everywhere. The game winning goal came 2:15 in as Stephen Campbell received a breakaway pass that he would capitalize on by beating Sharp 5-hole. Derek Hughes added his name on the goal scoring list for the first time in his PJHL career by putting a shot home from the point on the powerplay. The dagger would come on a two-on-one by red hot Dan Heinen and Lange. The rookies showed their chemistry once again as Heinen fed Lange for the easy tap in. The Richmond Sockeyes outshot the Outlaws 16-4 in that period, and 40-20 overall in the game.


Brief Game Notes:

1. Derek Hughes scored his first PJHL goal
2. William Latimer made his Sockeyes' debut in net
3. Red hot Daniell Lange now has 8 points in his last 3 games
4. Rudi Thorsteinson made his first appearance since September 15th

Scratches:

1. Dylan Friel
2. Kootenay Alder

3 Stars:

1. Daniell Lange
2. Dan Heinen
3. Brenden Sharp

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Sockeyes blast Kodiaks into 8-2 hibernation loss

For the second time this season, the feisty fish proved to be too quick for the desperately hungry bears as the Richmond Sockeyes steamrolled the Aldergrove Kodiaks 8-2.

In the two meetings between the teams this season, Richmond has now marked 15 goals in total against Aldergrove, as they defeated them 7-4 in the third game of the regular season. Daniell Lange lead the boys past their furry foes once again by scoring his second hat trick against the Kodiaks this year.

Richmond came into the game chasing Delta in a four point gap for top spot in the Tom Shaw Conference and the PJHL, as well as looking to gain some momentum back after dropping their last to Ridge Meadows.

Boy, did they ever.

However, midway through the first period, wouldn't you know it, it certainly didn't look like it was going to be that way. Although they didn't get the strong start they continue to lack on home ice of late, the Sockeyes were very much evenly paced with the Kodiaks until they somehow managed to net two past Kootenay Alder to take a 2-0 lead. So many times it feels like now, Richmond has found themselves in the early holes, but just as frequent is their consistency of being able to battle back, and with five minutes left in the period that's exactly what Dean "2 Step" Allison started with his goal. The score stood 2-1 Aldergrove at the end of the first, with the scoring chances and shots on goal staying pretty even (8-6 Richmond), but again - wouldn't you know it - that would all change as quickly as it was established.

The second period was an absolute showcase of hockey fireworks - goals and plays of all different colours and varieties. The Richmond Sockeyes came out like they had quickly put the first behind them and re-focused their energy on reviving the dominant hockey they know they're capable of playing, as well as the 'Ru faithful. They came so quick it was hard to count them - like three quick strikes from a pitcher to strikeout a helpless batter. First, it was Danton Heinen to tie it up. Then, Captain Sam Chichak found himself a loose puck in the slot on the powerplay and wired it by Kodiak goalie Mark Menicucci - the real catapult for the ensuing all out blitz. Lange, Chichak, Lange - just like that and it was 6-2 at the end of the third. Just as quickly as Chichak matched Lange with his second tally of the night, Lange dazzled the Aldergrove defense and easily solved the disheartened Menicucci on a brilliant shorthanded effort that had all of Richmond abuzz. Menicucci was yanked for reliever Cole McInnes, the Kodiaks fatigue was finally starting to show in their second game in as many nights, and the Sockeyes smiled their way into the dressing room in commanding fashion.

In the third, the game started to find its physical edge. As the Sockeyes showed no intention of letting up on the gas, the Kodiaks started to get aggressive at every puck battle. But as this Sockeyes group has shown, their is more than one gear that makes this team go, and they had no problem mixing it up with a pack of fatigued bears. Stephen Campbell and Daniell Lange, with his hatty, added a couple more, but the final exclamation point came on a Dominic Centis hit in the last minute of the game. Right in the middle of the ice up against the boards, Centis caught a streaking Kodiak forward with his head down and gave him an early trick-or-treat ding-dong right to the chest. A little retaliation from Aldergrove, but that was that in a nutshell - the Richmond Sockeyes were allowed to walk all over them. They stamped the final score 8-2 and called it a day.


Brief Game Notes
1. Sockeyes: 2/3 on powerplay
2. Final shot count: 34-32 for Sockeyes
3. Dylan Friel left game in third period

Scratches:
1. Rudi Thorsteinson

Three Stars:
1. Daniell Lange
2. Sam Chichak
3. Danton Heinen


Be sure to catch the next home game vs. Mission City live from the 'Ru next Thursday, November 1st, on www.richmondsockeyes.com. Pre-game 7:20, puck drop 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Sockeyes thrill the 'Ru again, scare off Wolf Pack 6-5

For the second week in a row, the Richmond Sockeyes came out victorious in a barn burning thriller on home ice. Last week it was Hamaguchi's heroics in overtime against Abbotsford, and this past Thursday it was a 6-5 triumph over the North Vancouver Wolf Pack.

Coming into the game, the Sockeyes were riding a four game win streak, as their confidence certainly seemed as strong as it has been all season after knocking off the high-octane Pilots and Delta Ice Hawks in that four game stretch. Thursday night posed a much less fiery matchup on paper - the North Vancouver Wolf Pack stood in third in the Tom Shaw Conference, but weren't hanging on by much as North Delta and Grandview were nipping at their heels in the standings.

One thing all the papers and stats in the world don't tell however, is just how fierce the hate is that stands between the two teams who are very familiar with one another. Last year the Sockeyes beat the Wolf Pack 4-1 in the playoff conference semi-finals, and in the only other game the two teams have met this year one player on each team received game misconducts when all was said and done in the 3-1 Sockeyes win. Thursday night at the 'Ru proved to tell a very similar tale.

In the first period, Richmond came out playing a style of hockey that has become a bit of a trend at home through the first stages of the game - slow. North Vancouver quickly had the edge as they potted two past goalie Payton Lee to take a 2-0 lead. Finally, midway through the first frame, the Sockeyes found the grit and determination that defines them so well and were able to fight back with three consecutive goals of their own. The first came from Stephen Campbell on a beautiful wrap-around effort that really sparked the boys. Dylan Friel continued carried on with altering the momentum by netting one of his own, and then Danton Heinen on the powerplay solidified Richmond's resilient authority. The score stood 3-2 Richmond at the end of the first, although North Vancouver lead the shot count 13-10.

If it was being called like a boxing match and the first round went to Richmond, then the second definitely went to North Vancouver. After feeling as disheartened as they did considering how well they started, the Wolf Pack came all out blitzing in the second period with some new found energy. They quickly re-established their lead by again scoring two quick, consecutive goals - both from the stick of Marcus Houck - putting them up 4-3 and chasing Lee from his net as he got replaced by Kootenay Alder off the bench. But as much as they tried to create separation from the feisty Sockeyes team, Richmond stayed close enough to strike once more before the end of the period. This time it came off the stick of Jordan "Honky Tonk" Andrews, for his first career PJHL goal. 4-4 read the scoreboard at the end of the second, and the way the intensity lingered strongly around the entire arena, there was no chance it was ending that way.

Well, four minutes into the third, and Matt Wagner was the first to answer the bell with his first of the season on a slapper from the point that just beat rookie goalie Anders Ten Vaanholt over the glove. But, hey, the trend of the night was tied scores, and star Wolf Pack forward Spencer Quon quickly kept  it going by providing the game's third tied score of the night at 5-5. By then, the intensity hadn't only reached its peak in terms of goal scoring, but in physicality as well. Both teams were getting chippy and chirpy at any opportunity, as the tight chess match continued to find that last decisive goal. Then, almost on a play that came out of nowhere, Heinen found himself in the slot and unloaded a wrister that just got under the arm of Ten Vaanholt. With a quick tap from Daniell Lange in the crease, the puck was buried and the Sockeyes found themselves again one up on the Wolf Pack, 6-5. The third round clearly went in Richmond's favour as they outshot North Vancouver 13-2 in the final frame and were able to hold on for the excitable W.

What first seemed like a mediocre matchup on paper turned out to be a fantastic hockey game that again, gave Richmond more quality experience in a playoff game-like atmosphere. The team extended its winning streak to five and more importantly, continues to function like a very well oiled machine.


Brief Game Notes:
1. Sockeyes: 1/6 on powerplay
2. Final shot count: 28-25 for Sockeyes

Scratches:
1. Rudi Thorsteinson

Three Stars:
1. Stephen Campbell
2. Spencer Quon
3. Dylan Friel


Be sure to catch the next home game vs. Aldergrove live from the 'Ru next Thursday, October 25th, on www.richmondsockeyes.com. Pre-game 7:20, puck drop 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, October 13, 2012

The Sockeyes ground the Pilots in overtime thriller

The Sockeyes have struggled with their starts all season long. With offensive players like Daniel Tait and Rudi Thorsteinson sidelined, it appeared as if it would be another unhurried first period. It was anything but that for the home side, as Richmond found their legs early on in the game. They had great chances to beat Aaron Oakley, but the veteran Abbotsford goaltender stopped all 13 shots he faced in the initial stanza. On the other hand, the young Payton Lee remained mainly untested as he would only face 3 shots in the first. 

The second period saw both teams start out slightly more conservatively. The Pilots picked up their skating, but Richmond held their ground and did not allow many openings. It would be Abbotsford who would score first with a shot from the slot by Chris Vinette that would be partially contacted by Lee, but found enough inertia to get past the red line. The goal came when the Sockeyes were playing their best hockey of the period. The equalizer would come just three minutes after, as the provisional top line of Chichak, Allison and Lawson would all combine for the marker. "2-step" Allison would get the final touch, as he found himself by the crease and poked the puck in from in deep. The Pilots would answer on a play where winger Luke Venema skated on in on the left side, centred a pass that missed a teammate, as well as two Sockeyes, and was received in the deep slot by pinching blueliner Ryan Parmar. He wouldn't forgive as he blasted a slapshot to give Lee no chance. Both teams headed to the locker room with Abbotsford leading and feeling confident to increase their winning streak to 7 straight.

It wouldn't take long for the Sockeyes to ignite the 'Ru, as only 1:02 into the 3rd, the captain Sam Chichak would receive a nice pass from Heinen who would put just enough on it to beat Oakley. This early goal set up an entertaining third period. Both teams played a much more open period, full of hits, end to end action and intensity. The shot total for the period would read 15-15 as the buzzer sounded to extend the match. 

To the delight of the home crowd, it was a short-lived extra period. Perhaps Aaron Oakley's only weakness is his puck handling, and that would fail him at the worst possible time. The Sockeyes dump a puck into the Pilots zone. Oakley was the first man on it. He mishandled the pass and gave it to Allison. He spotted his teammate Hamaguchi who didn't give Oakley time to get back into his net and put the winner away. 

Although it is early on in the season, this game had a playoff feel to it. The tight checking prevented both teams many odd man rushes or breakaways. The chess match, however, provided a different sort of entertainment that gave hockey fans an excitement level that was sustained throughout. 

First Star - Sam Chichak
Second Star - Aaron Oakley
Third Star - Dean Allison

Friday, October 5, 2012

Sockeyes drop first at home, fall 4-0 to rivaled Ice Hawks

The story line had written itself. Thursday night's game at Minoru Arena marked the first time the Delta Ice Hawks and Richmond Sockeyes faced each other this season since the Sockeyes felt the dispiriting defeat dealt from the same hands last season in the playoff Conference Finals.

Richmond fell short 4-2 in the series to Delta, who would go on to defeat the Abbotsford Pilots in the Finals to become crowned 2011-2012 PJHL champions.

At a regular season record of 37-7 last season, best in the league by a few exclamation marks, it comes with no hesitation to say that last year should've been the Richmond Sockeyes' year. And would've been their second time completing back-to-back championships in the last decade.

Instead, it was a bitter pulse that ran through the heart of the Sockeyes team coming into Thursday's matchup, as the should'ves and would'ves still lingered and the feeling of a rivaled defeat took life once again - this time in the shape of a 4-0 demise. The loss also marked their first in regulation time this season, and their first at the 'Ru, which experienced its biggest crowd of the year thus far.

Coming off recent dominant performances including their last, a 6-0 shutout win over Port Moody on Saturday, the Sockeyes were riding a strong wave of confidence, but they met a team in the Delta Ice Hawks who was feeling much the same, and clearly the biggest test for Richmond to date. Both teams came into this one carrying four-game winning streaks.

The beginning of the first period proved trouble for Richmond again, as their issues at home in the opening frame continued. The Ice Hawks jumped on the startled Sockeyes early, using their size advantage matched with their speed to control much of the first period action in the offensive zone. The Sockeyes for the most part looked nervously out of place, struggling to find their feet and proper positioning, which lead to an abundance of issues on the breakout and quickly affected the rest of their game. The Ice Hawks were pressing all period long as Kootenay Alder quickly became the strongest Sockeye force of the night, making stop after stop in desperation of not letting the game slip away early.

Finally, Delta broke Alder on the power play, finishing a beautiful passing display at 15:04. League-leading scorer Anthony Brito, averaging two goals and 3.1 points per game, found an empty net on a nifty tic-tac-toe play assisted by Mak Barden and Aaron Merrick. The entire Sockeye penalty kill was completely broken down by the quick Ice Hawk blitz as they were able to capitalize on their first man advantage of the evening. The Sockeyes were able to generate a bit more offense in the latter stages of the first with a late power play of their own, but it was still no match to the determined play of the proven Delta powerhouse team. The Sockeyes escaped the first period with the one goal deficit, but trailed 18-5 in shots at intermission - a much more telling part of the tale.

The second period began with the Sockeyes on the power play that carried over from the first, but Richmond was again not able to find the jump in their game. The Ice Hawks continued to out-battle and out-work the Sockeyes in the offensive and defensive zones, even on the penalty kill. Their passing was crisp and accurate, while their perpetual physical presence was being felt all over the ice. Again, this time at 6:49 of the second, Delta was able to solve the rock-steady Alder on another brilliant passing play. This time it was Marc Letourneau tapping one in at the side of the net assisted by Tanner Gattinger and Anthony Brito. But again, Alder had no chance as the net was empty for the unmarked Delta forward in behind the Sockeye defense.

Midway through the second, and the heated rivalry was back on the front burner - no question. Rookie Ice Hawks forward Cody Gordon placed a nasty check from behind on Dean Allison up against the boards, as he was a little shaken up. Sockeye defenseman Matt Wagner then got involved in retaliation and both players would take 10-minute misconducts and accompanying two-minute minors. The Ice Hawks were doing a solid job of drawing the Sockeyes into frustration, and then with under one minute to play in the period, the gloves dropped for the first time at the 'Ru this season. Dominic Centis and Ryan Cuthbert, two big defensemen, gave it to each other pop after pop right at center ice. Centis was able to land the last fierce punch, which sent Cuthbert's helmet tumbling to the ice as the crowd was roaring in a frenzy. The period ended 2-0, as the Sockeyes were only able to produce one more shot on goal than in the first - six.

The third period was, in short, a perfect reflection of the first two combined. The Ice Hawks scored two more goals to double their lead, and the physical and positional stranglehold they had on the Sockeyes persisted. The third Delta tally came very early at just 0:39 of the period as Anthony Brito found the back of the net for his second of the night. Gattinger and Letourneau also picked up their second points of the game, drawing the assists. Then, the gloves came off again, as this time Derek Hughes mixed it up with Delta forward Aaron Merrick, however it was much more short lived than the previous tilt. A bit later, at 13:09 and on the power play, the Ice Hawks put away their fourth and final goal, as the second league-leading scorer Mak Barden would join his other teammates with two points on the night by popping one in, assists going to Letourneau and Captain defenseman Alex Martin. And just like that, the Richmond Sockeyes felt their first real test of the season come and go while the bitterness towards their rivaled foes for the outcome of last season lives another day. The Sockeyes record now sits at 5-1-0-1 with 11 points, three back from the Ice Hawks in first place atop the Tom Shaw Conference.

Richmond now travels on the road for two - the first against North Vancouver (3-2-1-0) and the second against Delta (7-1-0-0) for a quick re-match of the spirited 4-0 loss. Then next Thursday, the Abbotsford Pilots (5-1-0-0) are in town for the first meeting between the two teams this season. The Pilots sit atop the Harold Brittain Conference and will surely prove as another sizable test for the Sockeyes early on in this campaign.


Brief Game Notes:
1. Ram Brar back in the lineup
2. Sockeyes: 0/6 on power play
3. Final shot count: 49-18 for Ice Hawks

Scratches:
1. Bret Higham
2. Rudi Thorsteinson

Three Stars:
1. Anthony Brito
2. Kootenay Alder
3. Marc Letourneau


Be sure to catch the next home game vs. Abbotsford live from the 'Ru next Thursday, October 11th, on www.richmondsockeyes.com. Pre-game 7:20, puck drop 7:30 p.m.


Friday, September 28, 2012

Sockeyes stay undefeated at home, deal Devils 8-1 loss

If last week's home win wasn't impressive enough, the home crowd at Minoru Arena were certainly treated like royals last night with the offensive brilliance the Richmond Sockeyes demonstrated in their 8-1 win over the slumping North Delta Devils.

The win improves the high-flying Sockeyes to 4-0-0-1 on the season as they leapfrogged the Delta Ice Hawks in the standings to take sole possession of first place in the Tom Shaw Conference and the PJHL. The only loss suffered so far this season came to the hands of the same North Delta Devils, who are now riding a two game losing slide after dropping their last two games in as many nights.

Considering the Sockeyes had a full week off in preparation for the Devils, the team came out of the gate with a shaky start and the young Devils squad was able to sustain much of the early pressure. Half way through the period however, the tables turned as rookie Daniell Lange was able to squeak one past Devil goaltender Tyler Read's legs from an awkward angle in the corner. And just like that, the flood gates would open. Daniel Tait dazzled once again with a mind-melting individual effort splitting the Devils defense only to make goalie Read look just as out of place, deking and going top corner post and in. Then, on the power play, the dangerous line of Chichak-Tait-Allison prevailed again as Dean Allison ripped a beautiful slapshot from just inside the blueline right past Read. The 'Ru was well alive and so were the Sockeyes as they held a 3-0 lead at the end of the first.

In the early stages of the second period, the gas peddle really hit the floor, as coach Aaron Wilbur had his boys firing on all cylinders. Captain Sam Chichak would finish a nice little passing play by finding an empty net to improve the lead to four, and ultimately chase Read from his net. The Devils completed a goalie change by entering rookie Justin McClelland into the game. He only lasted a matter of minutes in the already exhausted North Delta Devil net as he would allowed three quick ones: Lange once again, call-up Liam Lawson with his first goal in the PJHL, and Tait with his second as well, on another dandy backhand shot placed top corner "where the spider knits his web." That was that - Tyler Read was brought back to relieve McClelland. The Devils were able to put one past the solid Kootenay Alder before the end of the period, but the damaged had been done and the Devils' fatigue was finally starting to show. The Sockeyes held a 7-1 lead.

In the third, the frustration from the Devils also grew eminent. The game started to get more physical as the Sockeyes tightened up on an already dominant defensive performance to close it out. The North Delta team could get nothing going but essentially get chippy and at other times a little too undisciplined. Chichak would pot another, barely putting the dagger in the coffin - this one was done long before the third period buzzer. With the 8-1 thrashing, the Richmond Sockeyes remain undefeated at home.

The Sockeyes now go on the road for one against Port Moody on Saturday, and return home to take on the Delta Ice Hawks next Thursday, which should be their biggest test so far this season.


Notable Absences
1. Ram Brar continued to nurse a right hand injury.
2. Bret Higham sat out with mild concussion symptoms.
3. Dominic Centis was a healthy scratch.

Three Stars
1. Dean Allison
2. Daniel Tait
3. Daniell Lange


Be sure to catch the next home game vs. Delta live from the 'Ru next Thursday, October 4th, on www.richmondsockeyes.com. Pre-game 7:20, puck drop 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Tait, Chichak lead Sockeyes to 5-1 victory over Port Moody

It was an impressive offensive display at Minoru Arena Thursday night, as the Richmond Sockeyes delivered a barrage of shots on Angus Redmond's goal right from the first period, and did not stop until the final horn.

Coach Greg Harding sent his troops with an offensive mentality right from the start. Their plan was evident from the initial faceoff. Skate hard and don't allow the opponent to get out of their zone. The score after one period was 1-0 for the home side, but the game tale could be told from the board displaying the shots on goal. It read 26-9 after the opening period. Port Moody goalkeeper Angus Redmond needed to be sharp to keep the home team's lead within reach. The goal was score by Dean Allison, when he found the puck after an exceptional feed from captain Sam Chichak.

The second period was much of the same. The Sockeyes were once again the aggressors and did not let up offensively. Dean Allison returned the favour to his captain who received a great feed and beat Redmond to make it 2-0. Payton Lee faced few chances in the opening 30 minutes, and although he made the saves he needed to, he looked cold at some points. The lone goal by the Panthers came in that 2nd period after a bad turnover from the Sockeyes ended up as a one-timer from the slot giving Lee little chance.

Dan Heinen and Chichak added goals. 18 year old speedy winger Daniel Tait stood out with his speed and great vision. The second year Sockeye added a goal, plus three assist to earn the first star.

Mico Dragutinovic had impressive moments for the Panthers, but could not manage to get much success in beating Lee. He was a stand out for the away team with his impressive ability to possess the puck, but struggled to get any real scoring opportunities. He was held to a secondary assist on the lone Port Moody goal.

Two notable absences for the Sockeyes were Rudi Thorsteinson (tonsils) and coach Aaron Wilbur, although coach Harding did a great job shuffling his lines and coming up with a gameplan.

Richmond now has a week off and will await the last place team in the Tom Shaw conference; The North Delta  Devils. That game goes at 7:30PM at Minoru Arena on Thursday, September 27th.

Three Stars:

1. Daniel Tait
2. Angus Redmond
3. Dean Allison

Friday, September 14, 2012

Sockeyes win their 2012-13 season opener 5-3 over Grandview

During the pre-game show, first year coach Aaron Wilbur said that the expectation for this team is to always win. That is exactly what the Sockeyes did to kick off their 2012-13 season at Minoru Arena Thursday night.

The expectation was for the Sockeyes to come out energized for the first period after the opening night ceremony, but that was far from the truth. The Grandview Steelers were the aggressors in the opening period as they were the faster team, forechecked aggressively, and caused turnovers in the Sockeyes' zone. That's exactly what they'd do to find their first goal as the first period would end 1-0 for the away team.

Coach Wilbur got his team re-grouped in the locker room during that intermission as the Sockeyes came out with a different attitude in the second period. They drew penalties, found their legs, and it was them that were the aggressive forecheckers. Chichak scored the first goal for the Sockeyes to even it up. Richmond would not look back from that point. They would go on to dominate that period and score 4 unanswered goals in total to give them a 4-1 early in the third.

After trading goals in the first half of the third, the Sockeyes showed composure as they contained heavy pressure by Grandview in the second half of that period. They continued to create turnovers and even create scoring opportunities late in the game, taking any momentum away from the Steelers. The game ended at 5-3 for the home side.

Three Stars:

1. Justin Lachance
2. Scott Wessa
3. Kootney Alder

Next game: Saturday, September 15th at North Delta

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Sockeyes season ends as Delta wins series 4-2

 

The 2011/2012 Richmond Sockeyes playoff run came to a screeching halt at the Ladner Leisure Centre in game six of the Tom Shaw Conference Finals. The Sockeyes could not win in Delta to force a game seven versus the Ice Hawks. A bitter end to some great Junior B hockey careers as Patrick Hunter, Michael Ball, Clayton Wright, Keenan Webb, Tyler Klassen and Dylan Smith who are all twenty years old have played their last PIJHL game.

This was a tough fought series from games one to six and a huge congratulations to the Delta Ice Hawks on heading to their second PIJHL finals in three years.

Game six showed that the Richmond Sockeyes are a team with a lot of heart and a lot of tenacity. After going down two goals to nothing in the early stages of the first period, they didn't show quit. The tried to battle back all game facing adversity, even facing a full two minute five on three against them. Connor Wilson brought the game to within one goal at a 2-1 score in the third period. But it wasn't enough as the Sockeyes had a ridiculous amount of chances in front but much like the entire series they just couldn't capitalize on their opportunities.

This is a tough pill to swallow for the Richmond Sockeyes organization as they were expected to go far in the playoffs especially after one of the best PIJHL regular seasons ever, only losing seven games. but it would be when it counted that the Sockeyes couldn't get it done as they lost six of their last twelve games playing .500 hockey in the final twelve.

The top two lines struggled for Richmond in their final three games which is why the Ice Hawks went on to win the series, one guy who seemed snake bit all series long was Rudi Thorsteinson as he had a number of great scoring opportunities but couldn't bury them.

All in all though the season was a success for many including Carter Popoff who signed with the WHL's Vancouver Giants, Justin Rai and Kevan Kilistoff will be playing Junior A hockey next year. Jonah Imoo is being scouted by a number of different WHL teams. The Sockeyes model has always been to grow playing to take that next step and that is just what they have done.

A couple of huge losses that the Richmond Sockeyes organization will suffer is that of Head Coach Judd Lambert and trainer Rocky Gardiner. Lambert will now retire after an unbelievable run with the Richmond Sockeyes where he never lost more than 9 games in any season. Truly unbelievable and a stand up guy who will be greatly missed by the organization, the players, the broadcast team and fans. Rocky Gardiner will be retiring from the Sockeyes organization after 30 + years of service through various means for the team. There are not many people who are at the rink before Rocky and there aren't ever anyone who is left after they leave the rink. He along with his son Jeremy Gardiner put in hard work that goes way beyond the normal means of hockey. To these two guys we want to say the utmost thanks and appreciation for all the hard work. Enjoy the free time.

The Sockeyes will now have to wait until the 2012/2013 season to try to get back to the glory days that they saw last year winning the PIJHL championship, and three years ago winning the PIJHL Championship, the Cyclone Taylor Cup and the Keystone National Championship.

Next year we know the Sockeyes will be ready for greatness and for everyone that played for the Sockeyes this year we ant to wish them all luck over the summer and hope everyone has a safe and amazing break.

For all of the volunteers who put in hundreds of hours of time to make this organization run so smoothly we want to thank you all for your hard work and dedication.

So long for the rest of the year, be sure to keep track of the 2012 Cyclone Taylor Cup which is being hosted by the Abbotsford Pilots.

Cheers

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Delta dominates Sockeyes at Minoru(Ice Hawks lead series 3-2)

              VS.                 

After two punishing losses to the Delta Ice Hawks at the Minoru Arena in games four and five, the Richmond Sockeyes are just one game away from prematurely ending their 2012 playoff push. Delta now leads the series three games to two in this best of seven, with game six scheduled for Sunday at 7:30 at the Ladner Leisure Centre in Delta.


The Richmond Sockeyes laid two eggs in games four and five to the Delta Ice Hawks as they lost 5-1 on Thursday and 6-3 on Friday to go down in the series. 


The Sockeyes had probably one of their worst games of the season on Thursday as they didn't look into the game or energized at all. Meanwhile the Delta Ice Hawks managed to scored five goals on Kootenay Alder including two short handed goals and one power play goal to finish the night.


The next game was just a day later as the Sockeyes looked to bounce back. They did a better job at the start opening the games scoring, but the Hawks quickly scored two goals to get a 2-1 lead. Before the period was out Ryan Cooper tied the game. 


The third period was all Delta though as they scored four goals en route to beating the Sockeyes 6-3 thumping. Kootenay Alder was in goal for all six goals as well. 


The big difference has been the scoring for Delta, especially off the stick of Cody Fidgett as he has scored six goals in the past three goals to lead his team in playoff scoring.


Richmond now for the first time since March 13th 2011 the Sockeyes will face an elimination game, that was of course a 3-2 game seven win for Richmond in the Tom Shaw Conference finals.


Be sure to head out to the Ladner Leisure Centre to cheer on the boys as they try to bring the series back to game seven at Minoru Arena. Game six is at 7:30 at the Ladner Leisure Centre just off the highway. If there is a game seven it will be Monday at 7:30 in Richmond.  If game seven goes you can catch it on SockeyesTV at www.richmondsockeyes.com