Bombers Rock Solid Against Miners
The Sioux Lookout Bombers bounced back from a tough loss on Friday night. Some minor tweaks to the lines proved to be the key to success in the second game of the weekend double header with the Red Lake Miners.
The Bombers hit the ice with purpose from the first puck drop and didn’t look back. They controlled much of the play in the first period, outshooting the Miners 11-7. In addition, they were determined to get the upper hand in the physical game as well, finishing every check and not allowing the Miners any time or space. Although only tested a handful of times, Matthew Ofukany made several brilliant saves for the Bombers. Assistant Captain, Alex Lucas got the home team on the board first when he jumped on a loose puck on the doorstep and hammered it past Trent Boryszczuk at 7:14.
The 1-0 score would carry right through the second period as both goaltenders were perfect through the next period. The Bombers once again dominated the shots 11-7.
Kaden Veller added to the Bombers’ lead at 3:23 of the third period. Owen Riffel sent a blind pass straight across the top of the crease. Veller, all alone on the other side elevated the puck over Boryszczuk’s pad. The 2-0 score wouldn’t hold up as Quinn Szpak would spoil Matthew Ofukany’s shutout bid with under a minute to go in the third. The Bombers held on for a 2-1 win over the visiting Miners.
Final shots on net were 21 for the Miners and 39 for the Bombers. The game’s third star was Ben Dias who was pulled up from defence to play on the wing on the energy line and filled the new role nicely. Matthew Ofukany picked up the second star and his third win in four starts this season. First star of the game was given to Alex Lucas in recognition of his goal to start the Bombers off on the right foot and his physical presence all game.
The Miners won’t get much rest as they are in Fort Frances on Tuesday to take on the Lakers. The Bombers make their first trek to Michigan next weekend for a weekend series against the Ironwood Lumberjacks.