The Neumeister Motors Tier Two Stratford Warriors travelled to Woodstock on Saturday, January 13 to take on the Navy Vets. The showed a new level of intensity in their play with a much improved forecheck, better scoring chances and a determined effort on defence. However, despite leading in the third period, a series of penalties that lead to power play goals for Woodstock undid the Warriors as they fell 6-2.
In the game the Warriors started off skating fast and looking sharp. Led by Evan Hughes and Kadyn Adams in the early going the Warriors moved quickly through the neutral zone and held the Navy Jets in their end with some aggressive play at the blue line from Ezra Wreford and Lukas Morrison. Half way through the period their hard work was rewarded with a goal from Kieran Johnson as he took a lead pass from Fischer McPherson and scored on a shot to the corner.
In the second period, Josh Steele scored a short handed goal that was assisted by Rowan Green. Stratford led 2-1 for some time. The two teams traded chances until the end of the second. Nolan Tryssennar played well at defence and both cleared the puck from danger and won battles for it. Quinn Smith made two great pad saves that kept the Warriors ahead at the time.
In the third period, penalty trouble cost the Warriors as they let the lead slip away. The Warriors new aggressive style and forecheck will be needed this week as they travel to Waterloo on Sunday to play the Wolves.