Game to forget

Dukes drop game 3

Some games aren’t worth dissecting. There is too little of value or of potential edification to be gleaned from the exercise. Think Game 2 in Newmarket. Last night’s game in Aurora is best forgotten quickly.

While Aurora fans will read into the lopsided score the possibility that their team is “back”, last night’s game proved only that the Tigers can score when they have more skaters on the ice than the Dukes. The Tigers first three goals, including the game-winner came on the powerplay. Aurora only manage two even-strength goals in 6-2 win over the Dukes.

A better way to respond to extra Aurora attention.

So the lesson—if it can be called this—is that the Wellington Dukes must stay out of the penalty box. But of course, this is easier said than done. As expected, Wellington was subject to extra physical attention by the Aurora oversized players along the wall and in the corners. Some felt it wasn’t fair. They complained to the referees, who ignored them. They retaliated and were sent to the box. Repeatedly. Aurora’s squad smirked and took the gifts. Ten power play opportunities they handed the Tigers. They might have gift-wrapped the offering and put a bow on it.

Then there were a pair of Dukes goals disallowed—or unnoticed by the referees. (They don’t use goal judges in Aurora.)

It’s a lot to ignore. But that is precisely what they must do—and will do.

It is obvious—more apparent than either the Pickering or Newmarket series—that the Dukes are a better team. They are faster, move the puck better and create far more scoring chances than the Tigers. Defensively Dukes speed enables them to break up the rhythm of the Tiger’s offensive tactics. They intercept passes like they are being made by a peewee team. Quicker and more agile they ferret out the puck from the scrums along the wall.

So it would be a shame if the Dukes dwelled on Tuesday’s game, or gave it another thought. It is useless and unproductive use of their attention right now.

I expect most Dukes players must know this—but those serial offenders should be on a short leash. Hockey is a tough game. It’s physical. And things don’t always go your way. Putting your team short handed is the reward Aurora’s galoots are seeking. Get up, and go back harder.

The Dukes need to shake off last night’s aberration and get back to work.