A 4-2 win at home for the Ponoka Stampeders gave the team a much-needed boost.
Playing the Coaldale Copperheads Nov. 12, the Stamps played a solid game that could have gone either way, explained coach Matt Williams.
“It was a really close checking game,” said Williams.
“It was intense. The boys really battled on both sides.”
He said that there was really no point in the game he felt confident of the win, with the Copperheads laying everything on the line.
“I don’t think there was a moment in this game until the buzzer went that we felt secure,” said Williams. “They’re a good team. We really had to work hard to get the win today.”
Coaldale really put in all the stops and pulled the team’s goalie out with 1:30 left to play.
“It was nerve wracking but our guys did a great job of doing what they had to do,” said Williams, adding that the team has practiced playing a six on five scenario.
This win sets the team up to chase Stettler Lightning, said Williams, who wants to pass them in points this season. The Stampeders play Stettler at home tonight (Nov. 15). “It’s going to be a really tight checking game and I’m looking forward to it.”
“We’re chasing them and we need that (win),” said Williams.
Winning at home was another bonus for Williams who said the Ponoka fans have been strong in the support they give the team.
While November is a quiet month, the team will be out and about in the community with a Stampeders public skate coming up and then at Boston Pizza where the players will be serving customers Nov. 27. Contact the Stampeders for more information.
Those dates will be ideal to get out and meet the team, added Williams.
Scorers for the game versus Coaldale were Kayden Gatz, Jacob Sayler, Brayden Klessens and Brandon Brockerville.
Goalie Taylor McLaughlin took on 30 shots, stopping 28 while the Copperheads’ goalie saved 28 of 32 shots.