Both the Kitchener/Waterloo Kodiaks and the Brampton Excelsiors won games in their first round MSL playoff series by coming from behind in the final period. In game one, it was Kitchener who rode a 7-2 third period to victory, while game two saw Brampton score five unanswered goals in the final frame to take the win. The talk before game was definitely on playing a full sixty minutes.
Before focus shifted to the third, coaches also spoke to their teams about the transition game. The Kodiaks have relied on their transition players to provide opportunities to create chances and score goals. Brampton knew they’d have to curb the fast breaks. Having said that, Brampton was still caught off guard just thirty seconds into the period when Ryan Dilks broke out and scored on a fast break. Jesse Gamble did the same four minutes later. Paul Dawson responded with a taste of Kitchener’s own medicine as he scored on a fast break. Brendan Thenhaus would score the Kodiaks’ third of the period but Brampton would finish the frame with three straight to lead 4-3 after one.
As they did in the first, Kitchener came out and scored in the first minute of the second period to tie the score. Dan Keane, who has been outstanding since being promoted from Jr A, scored a beautiful goal cutting through the crease. Shane Scott and Joe Resetarits (shorthanded) would finish the period for Brampton giving the home side a 7-4 lead heading to the final intermission.
As mentioned, the focus for each team was a strong finish and a full sixty minute game. Despite the message, it was Brampton who did all the scoring in the final period putting home four goals. This brings their third period total to 8-0 in two days, although the series total for the final frame sits at 10-7 Brampton. Anthony Cosmo was solid throughout the game saving thirty-four of forty shots and earning the win.
The game was extremely fast paced as both sides were running the entire sixty minutes. It was a hard fought battle for both sides, despite the score. Given Brampton’s offensive struggles in the regular season (just over six goals per game scored on average), it was good to see five players with multiple goals in the game – Paul Dawson, Carter Bender, Shane Scott, Joe Resetarits and Dan Keane.
The teams will take two nights off before heading to Kitchener on Thursday evening where Brampton can clinch the series. The floor in Waterloo is larger than most others, and has caught teams off guard. While the Excelsiors did win there Sunday, it will be one to watch for sure. The game will be streamed live by JVI Productions at www.webcast-sports.com on a pay-per-view basis for $7. Visit their website to order a broadcast and check the schedule for other MSL and Jr A playoff broadcasts.
