Ponoka Storm’s U18 girls had no trouble defeating Camrose last week.
Playing at home May 31, the female team has had a solid run against Camrose and it was no different this week winning 6-0, explained coach Lonny Behm.
“We played really well against Camrose, our movement on and off the ball was exceptional. We played extremely fast. Our fight and desire was where it needed to be,” said Behm.
“Our ball movement was a key piece to our victory from the keeper on out. We defended extremely well not allowing them any real threats and we played very easy and effective balls, making the easy play.”
While Camrose sits in fourth pace in the league, Ponoka’s real challenge will be against two teams that are part of a larger area. Red Deer/Lacombe joined forces and Rimbey/Rocky Mountain house did the same.
“We have a target on our backs,” said Behm. “Everyone wants to beat the champions, so we as champions need to find and match the other teams competition level.”
Behm said these three teams (Ponoka included) are the strong ones in the league vying for just two provincial berths. He added his confidence in the team’s abilities.
“All in all this is a very talented group of ladies who are proven winners and are amazing at what they do. It’s been an honour to coach them the past few years,” said Behm, adding thanks to assistant coaches Shawna and Myron Pearman for encouraging him to return to coaching.
A big focus will be to remind athletes to communicate with each other during the game as well as getting the team to take advantage of scoring opportunities.