Oct 15, 2023 | Mackenzie | 888 views
Applekings lose Home Opener in front of Big Crowd
The Applekings made some costly mistakes that led to odd man rushes that put them behind the game in the 1st period.
Everything was shaping up to be an extraordinary night at the Beaver Valley Community Centre. Applekings fans came out in groves with more than 600 people in attendance. We want to thank everyone who came out and supported us in the Home Opener!
The Applekings came out with some nerves but settled into the game a few shifts into the opening frame. Mackenzie Fleming scored with a backhand shot on a 2-on-1 rush but the goal was called back on delayed off-setting minor penalties. The Coyotes responded right away with two quick goals by Logozzo and Vanderzaag putting them up 2-0. The Coyotes put up another two goals on odd-man rushes with goals from Hughes and B.Taylor. The Coyotes controlled most of the 1st period ending with a 4-0 lead and outshooting the Applekings 12-7.
The Applekings came out flying in the second period that led to an early power play. However, it was Creemore that scored on that PP on a goal from new Coyote, Halbych. Although, 30 seconds later the Applekings responded with their first goal in franchise history off a tip from Austin Russell, assisted by Brody Cadeau and Connor Long. The Applekings found new life and dominated the next 6-8 minutes but could not find the back of the net. They earned another power play but again gave up a shorthanded goal on a wrap around from Boyd. Menary came in for the Applekings at this point in relief; although Gowe played a good game in net, the team defence didn't help. The Coyotes scored another goal with 1:37 left in the period on a goal from J.Taylor. The Applekings responded 15 seconds later on a goal from Captain Mitchell Good, assisted by Evan Buehler and Mackenzie Fleming. The period ended with the Coyotes up 7-2. The Applekings outshot Creemore in the 2nd period 13-6.
During the second intermission, Apples scattered the ice with the first ever Apple Toss! Congrats to the winner who took home a prize by VH Fit, along with more than $120!
The 3rd period was a chippy affair with a total of 28 minutes in penalties. The Coyotes added one more goal from Dobinson, but otherwise there was not much happening in the 3rd period. Shots this period ended tied 13-13.
The Applekings had their offensive chances once again, but couldn't get the momentum going throughout the game. They know what they need to work on for next weeks road game against a good Minto 81 team in Palmerston.
Catch the Applekings during their next home game on Saturday, November 4th, 2023 at 5:30 PM when they take on the defending Senior A Champion, Milverton Four Wheel Drives.
Thank you again fans for all of your support in our home opener!