Cyclone Golf Tournament: Sat. June 18th -See Events for Details-Sign up ASAP...Please

 Dean T's 12 Steps of The Cyclone Off-Season Program

Wow ….It is June already. The much maligned spring weather has straightened itself out into some decent sun and warm breezes. Since our last report several steps of the Cyclones recovery program have taken place.

 As mentioned previously, Step #3, the Cyclones annual year end banquet was held April 27th at the Kin Station in Listowel. Good food, some cold beverages, some playful ribbing and some inspiring and heartfelt words made for another terrific banquet. The golfing beforehand was showered with rain but the 19^th hole at the Listowel Golf Club provided some much needed refuge and refreshment from the unruly skies.

 Step #4 involved the Cyclones annual spring skate on April 30th and May 1^st. Listowel Memorial Arena was the scene as many prospective players were put through their paces under the watchful eye of the Cyclones hockey brain trust. Early indications suggest that the turnout featured another strong crop of skaters. More details to follow in the days to come as the roster spots are sorted out.

 The Month of May opened the doors to many possibilities as Cyclones fans found themselves gravitating away from the rink and into other things. Step #5….get outside. After a long, cold and snowy winter; followed by a cool and wet start to spring, the weather yielded to sun and warmer temperatures. Cyclones fans took full advantage of the break in the weather to get outside for a multitude of activities….doing some yard work, shining up the car, hopping on a bike, taking the Harley for a spin, heading to the lake to open the cottage, planting a flower bed or a garden. For as much as winter is the right time to be indoors at the hockey rink, spring and summer provides the prime time to break out from underneath winter’s spell and get outside.

 Part of getting outside means hitting the links, and the Cyclones Golf Tourney is coming to the Listowel Golf Club on Saturday, June 18^th. Registration is at 10:00 a.m. with a shot gun start at 11:00 a.m. It is 18 holes of Cyclonic Golf Action followed by an equally Cyclonic “All You Can Eat” Dinner at the Kin Station starting at 6:00 p.m.

 Cost for Golf and Dinner is $125.00 AND INCLUDES the golf cart, driving range prior to golf and eligibility for some nifty prizes. If you are unable to golf but want to join in for dinner, then by all means do so for the super low cost of $29.00. So Cyclones fans circle JUNE 18^th on your calendar and make sure to join in the fun. This event is open to all so get your name in with either Cyclones President Don Annett or Cyclones General Manager Wayne Long. Environment Canada has guaranteed that the weather will be nothing short of Cyclonic (i.e. sun and blue skies); so get your gang of 4 signed up and get ready for the most intense 18 holes of golf since the Masters at Augusta, Georgia.

 Cyclones golf and Step #5 Get Outside fit together like a puck and stick, hand and glove, sweet and sour, salt and pepper, gin and tonic……..say no more,

 See you at the links on June 18^th……………….FORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 Bleed Red, White & Black!!!!!!!!!  

Cyclone News

Most of you are probably aware of the fact that Mike Brooks has stepped down as GM.  Mike has been with the Cyclones for 5 years. He was Assistant Coach for 1 year, Head Coach for 3, and GM for 1. Mike was a key part of the success that the Cyclones had over this time. We wish him all the best and are sure he'll be part of our team again in the future.  Jeff Bloemberg has also resigned his position of Assistant Coach.  Jeff has been a rock solid influence with our defence and we wish him all the best as well.

Dave Williams has been promoted to Director of Hockey Operations as well as Head Coach and is busily working on next season. Joining Dave on our management team is former Cyclone player, Wayne Long.  He has been our VP for the past few seasons and will now be our GM.  We also welcome back Trevor Fraser to our coaching staff. Dave, Wayne, and the entire staff were busy at the rink this past weekend as over 60 talented young players were showing if they have what it takes to be a member of the 2011-2012 Cyclone Team.  Dave and Wayne have made some key signings so check back next week for another edition of Deat T.'s 12 Step Off-Season Program. It is rumoured that he will talk about some of the Cyclonic signings.

If you haven't registered for our upcoming Golf Tournament on June 18th, go to Events for more information.  You don't want to miss it.  That's right...it will be Cyclonic.

Go Cyclones Go!!

Dean T.'s  12 Step Off-Season Program

Another action packed season of Listowel Cyclones Junior Hockey concluded on April 8^th / 2011….a mere 2 weeks ago.  

 “The Coolest and Fastest Game in Town” is on hiatus until August training camps begin. In the meantime, what is a dyed in the wool Red, White and Black supporter supposed to do?

 Have no fear as your intrepid Cyclones Reporter has hold of a 12 Step Program to help get you through until the start of the 2011 – 2012 hockey season.

 First out of the box, is Step#1. Customary after the end of every season, it is time for pause, reflection and contemplation on the busy season that has just passed, while enjoying a cold beverage of one’s choice. This reporting spot is not endorsing going overboard, but if you desire more than one beverage, well that is entirely up to your own choice. Enjoy!!!

Step #2 involves watching other former Cyclones who are still engaged in playoffs in whatever league they may be playing in. Given the Junior B Cyclones deep 2011 Playoff run, finishing 5^th of the 26 teams in the GOJHL, the timing of their season’s end has severely limited one’s choices.

 The Senior “AA” Monkton Wildcats finished runner up to the Saugeen Shores Winterhawks in the WOAA League Championship Series. A salute to the former Cyclones who have gradually risen through the ranks of Senior Hockey to claim their 2011 South Division crown and who put forth a very strong effort to come within 2 wins of a WOAA League crown. The list is a who’s who of former Red, White and Black warriors: Kyle Verberne, Mike Feltz, Alan Lamont, Matt May, Nick Seiler, Kevin Ward, Shayne McClure, Dawson Smith and Brendon Haefling. A salute to former Cyclones blueliner Derek Skinner and also to Dustin Catto (older brother of Cyclones’ forward Brett Catto) as they and their Winterhawks teammates captured their 2^nd league title in recent years.

 Given that former Cyclones playing in the GOJHL’s Western Division and the Greater Horseshoe Division have been eliminated; as have any playing in Junior “C”; one must turn towards the ranks of the NHL to watch Nick Spaling and the Nashville Predators do battle against the Anaheim Ducks in the opening round of the 2011 NHL Stanley Cup tournament. After toiling in the minors for almost 2 full seasons with the Nashville’s AHL affiliate - the Milwaukee Admirals; 2010-2011 was Nick’s first full season in the NHL. In 74 regular season games, Nick registered 8 goals (including his first NHL goal) and 6 assists. In a post game interview, after scoring his first NHL goal, Nick was complemented by Nashville coach Barry Trotz for his preparation, hard work and his very close attention to detail at the NHL level. It was those very qualities that have helped Nick emerge from a 2004-2005 Cherrey Cup Championship Season with the Cyclones, to a successful 3 year career and a 2008 Memorial Cup Championship Finals showing with the Kitchener Rangers, before embarking on an NHL career starting with Milwaukee in the 2008-2009 season.

 Step #3 involves the Cyclones Annual Banquet, which will be held Wednesday April 27^th and Step #4 will center on the Cyclones 2011 Spring Skate which is slated for Saturday, April 30^th and Sunday May 1^st at Listowel Memorial Arena. More details about these upcoming are currently posted on the website and more post event stories and happenings can be relayed in the near future.

 In two short weeks the 12 Step Cyclones Hockey Withdrawal program has begun in earnest. Steps #1 and #2 are well underway and Steps #3 and #4 are fast approaching. Stay Tuned.

 Bleed Red, White & Black!!!  Go Cyclones!!!

SugarKings Win Cherrey Cup

The Listowel Cyclones Congratulate the Elmira SugarKings on clinching the Cherrey Cup last night in Listowel.  The Cyclones put up a valiant effort  but came out on the short side as Elmira won by a close 3-2 score. The full game report will be posted when available.  We wish the SugarKings all the best as they move on in the Sutherland Cup playdowns.

On behalf of the Listowel Cyclone Executive, I want to send out a Cyclonic THANK YOU to everyone who helped to make this season possible.  This includes the players, parents, management, coaching staff, all other team helpers, the Cyclone Executive, General Neabel and his Storm Troopers, Gloria & Joan, our tremendous fan base, all of our financial supporters, The North Perth council, arena workers, and the entire community of North Perth.  Thank you all for helping to make our 32nd year of Jr. B hockey possible.

Don Annett: President, Listowel Jr. B. Cyclones

Elmira Take Series With 3-2 Win

Game #6 of the 2011 Cherrey Cup Finals took place Friday, April 8^th at Listowel Memorial Arena. The home side Cyclones battled hard and they fought courageously but were defeated by Elmira by a 3-2 score.

With the win the Sugar Kings become the winners of the 2011 GOJHL Midwest Division Cherrey Cup.

 The Cyclones fell behind early at the 48 second mark of the 1^st period when Lucas Baleshta banked a loose puck off of the back of the legs of Anthony Peters for an unassisted goal and an early 1-0 lead. The Cyclones needed some time to recover from that turn of events before scoring an even strength goal at 11:48 to tie the game up. Captain Bobby Cook ripped a short from the right wing face-off circle after Tyler Evoy and Patrick Bell helped win the battle for the puck deep inside the zone before setting up their Captain for the shot. The scored stayed tied until the 9:16 mark of the second period when Jeff Bauer passed over to Brett McGuinness inside the Elmira blue line on the right wing side. Number 12 snapped a hard shot that deflected off of the skate of an Elmira defender and then became airborne. Enough power and momentum were left in the shot that the puck sailed high towards the Elmira net. Goaltender Matt Smith lost sight of the puck and lost his position in the crease, and as a result, the puck lofted in over the right shoulder of the net minder and it landed softly in the mesh of the top corner. The Cyclones had a terrific chance to widen their lead by a 2 goal margin starting with a power play 43seconds after the wild and crazy goal by McGuinness. The Cyclones plans and ultimately their season, was derailed by 3 straight minor penalties that resulted in a 5 on 3 power play goal against at 12:58, followed by a  5 on 4 power play goal at 14:31. From that point on the Cyclones continued to battle furiously for the tying goal over the last 25 plus minutes of play, including some last minute attempts at heroics with Anthony Peters on the bench in favour of an extra attacker. The Cyclones were turned away at every chance as time ran out on the Cyclones remarkable 2011 play off journey.

 Both teams lined up at centre ice to congratulate each other on a well played and hard fought Finals Series; after which the Cyclones gathered at centre ice and with one final rise of their sticks, they saluted their fans in recognition of their support. With heavy hearts, the Cyclones players skated off of the ice, 1 by 1, some for the very last time in the Junior Hockey careers.

 The ending of the 2011 playoffs was a bittersweet experience for the Red, White & Black. This team had started out with a new head coach, a new assistant coach, one returning assistant coach, a small handful of returning players and lots of fresh, new faces. Through hard work and dedication to their game, these men battled through the growing pains and the hard knocks of the regular season, collecting 31 wins and 66 points on their way to a respectable 5^th place finish in the GOJHL Midwest Division. A mere 3 wins and 7 points separated the top 5 place finishers after 51 tough and tenacious games of regular season play. In the playoffs the Cyclones colours shone the brightest, first by taking down the arch rival Stratford Cullitons in 7 thrilling and pressure packed games. Then our Cyclones heroes followed that up with another 6 game blockbuster effort to defeat the 1^st place Guelph Hurricanes. In the Final series, the Cyclones met their match against Elmira but the margin covering the difference between victory and defeat was ever so very slim. Congratulations Cyclones for a regular season and a playoff performance that was truly inspirational, entertaining and uplifting.

 To wrap up this season’s reporting it is customary to salute our retiring players.

 Number 16, Captain Bobby Cook - For two seasons Bobby has been a vital part of the Cyclones on ice success. Big goals and big plays are Bobby’s forte and there were more than plenty of those during Bobby’s career as a Cyclone. The Lambeth native used his final season of junior hockey to demonstrate his skills, courage, tenacity and determination; recording 35 goals, 37 assists and 72 points in 48 regular season games. Bobby had a tremendous 2011 playoff run with 15 goals and 8 assists over the course of the 19 game run, and is quite easily considered one of the premiere players in this Division and this League.

 Number 11, Alternate Captain Tyler Evoy - After playing the previous 2 seasons with the Soo Thunderbirds of the Northern Ontario Tier 2 Junior A League, the Sault Ste. Marie native landed in Listowel to provide some veteran presence on the ice and in the dressing room. In the regular season Tyler scored 15 goals and 21 assists for 36 points in 43 games. This was followed up by 4 goals and 10 assists in 19 playoff games. Tyler ’s ability to score some big goals in big games made him another valuable veteran player on this young Cyclones squad. (i.e. Goal #3 in Quarter Finals Game #7 to clinch victory over Stratford, and Goal #2 in the Semi Finals Game #6 to help produce a victory over Guelph). Veteran players of this caliber are a rare and valued sort indeed.

 Number 7, Brandon Passley - After starting the season with the Kitchener Dutchmen, Brandon was acquired at the trade deadline in an effort to bolster the Cyclones depth at the forward position. Using his speed, energy and skills, the Kitchener native meshed right away with his new team. He scored 10 goals and 9 assists in 16 regular season games, and added another 4 assists in the 2011 playoff run. Brandon is another solid addition to the Cyclones family and another character player that donned the Red, White and Black Cyclones uniform with pride for every shift of every game.

 Number 24, Luke Turcotte – Luke was another very important late season addition for the Cyclones, coming to the team at the trade deadline via the University of Waterloo . Luke is a big, rugged defenceman that can cover a lot of ice in his own end and he can handle the leagues’ toughest of customers. On more than one occasion Luke was tested by each team and on more than one occasion, the Mississauga native was more than capable of turning aside all of those who foolishly dared to take him on. In the regular season, Luke notched 1 goal and 4 assists in 9 games, adding 2 assists in 14 playoff games; plus he delivered a ton of effort and stability in the defensive zone.

 Number 33, Anthony Peters – Anthony was indeed a Cyclonic performer since being acquired at the trade deadline from the Mississauga Majors of the OHL. In 12 regular season games the Blyth native sported a record of 9 wins, 3 losses, a goals against average of 2.7, a save percentage of 92.4% and 2 shut outs. In the playoffs, Number 33 was equally brilliant with 10 wins, 9 losses, a 2.67 goals against average, a 92.6% save percentage and 2 more shut outs, all in 1148 minutes played – the most of any GOJHL goaltender in 3 rounds of playoffs. Anthony fortified the Cyclones defensive system and provided veteran leadership on the ice and in the dressing room. As each playoff series wore on, Number 33 rose to the occasion, playing stingier and competing harder. Save after save, the opposition and their fans cringed with increased anxiety and desperation while Anthony’s Cyclones teammates were filled with inspiration, surging forward with confidence and enthusiasm.

 Thank you to Bobby, Tyler, Brandon, Luke and Anthony for your contributions of hard work, dedication and loyalty to this season’s Cyclones team. It was a pleasure to get to know all of you. On the behalf of all, I thank you, all of your teammates, parents, the Cyclones coaches, management , team support staff , volunteers, executive and the fans for a fantastic, exciting and memorable season of Cyclones hockey. It was another successful and enjoyable season.

 There are less than 20 weeks to go before more Cyclones hockey arrives for the 2011 – 2012 season. Until then, enjoy the off season and get ready for more Cyclonic action.

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

SugarKings Earn 1-0 Win 

Game #5 of the Cherrey Cup Finals took place on Wednesday, April 6th at the Dan Snyder Memorial Arena in Elmira.  The flow of the game was certainly dictated by the officials and all in all, it was a fairly odd game to watch. Elmira did outshoot the Cyclones and earned the slim 1-0 victory. Anthony Peters was rock solid in goal for the Cyclones and Nick Horrigan was solid as he earned the shutout.

Be sure to come out on Friday night as the Cyclones will do their best to tie this series at 3 games each.  Elmira will give it their all to take home the Cherrey Cup. It will be a dandy.  The Memorial Arena will hold about 400 more fans than we had on Tuesday night so don't be afraid that you won't get in. 

See you at the rink.  Bleed Red, White, and Black!!

Go Cyclones Go!! 

Cyclones Tie Series With 5-1 Victory

Game #4 of the 2011 Cherrey Cup Finals took place Tuesday, April 5^th at Listowel Memorial Arena. The home side Cyclones regained control of their destiny in this Series with a very strong 5-1 victory over Elmira. Both teams battled hard all night long but it was the Cyclones who made the best use of their scoring chances and who made the best use of their defensive abilities in order to obtain a decisive edge in this match. The Cyclones were outshot 35 - 33 and went 1 for 6 on the PP and were 10 for 11 on the PK.

 The first period saw the Cyclones grab a 2 -0 lead after 20 minutes. David Dalby and Brett Catto teamed up to get the puck deep into the zone where from the right wing corner; Catto centered the puck into the hash marks area for Caleb Cameron who redirected the shot through Nick Horrigan in the Elmira goal. Nice play. An equally nice play produced the Cyclones 2^nd goal of the game, this time on the power play. Mac Nichol led the rush down the left wing boards, gained the Elmira zone and fed the puck towards centre. Ryan Horvat received the pass and swept the puck forwards to Brett Catto in the middle of the zone. Catto cut hard to the left wing, swooping around to the right of a helpless Horrigan who was caught out of position shifting to his left, leaving Catto an open net to shot for. The power play goal came at the 11:54 mark and helped elevate the Cyclones confidence as they continued to play the opening 20 minutes. Literally in the last second of the period, Elmira’s sketchy tactics became a factor as Brad Kraus nailed Mac Nichol with a head shot followed by another punch to the head; which touched off an eruption of pushing, shoving and after the whistle rowdiness.

 Given the 4 minute penalty assessed to Kraus, the start of the second period promised to be a fruitful one for the Cyclones but that was all turned sideways when they garnered three minor penalties of their own in the first 4 ½ minutes to start the middle frame of play. The Cyclones PK units were up to the task and successfully resisted all Elmira power play advances. Both teams continued to play a game of chess on skates as each team tried to outmaneuver each other for a territorial advantage. Elmira continued to play their grinding and cycling game while the Cyclones replied with some short bursts counter attacking the Elmira net.  A neutral ice turn over by Elmira set up the stage for the Cyclones 3^rd goal. David Dalby intercepted the loose puck at centre, snapped a crisp pass to Brett Catto through the neutral zone and as he gathered speed inside the Elmira zone, the Kincardine native attracted a crowd on the right wing side of the zone before sending a cross ice tape to tape pass to Caleb Cameron on the left wing. The Sundridge native drove straight to the left side of the goal and redirected the puck at the edge of the blue paint unopposed as he chipped it high over Horrigan’s blocker at 12:59. The Cyclones cracked the game wide open at 14:40 as Captain Bobby Cook and Tyler Evoy teamed up with a give and go style left wing rush, as Tyler fed the lead pass to Cook and Number 16 redirected the puck past a confused  and bewildered Nick Horrigan. Matt Smith entered the game to relieve Horrigan in the Elmira net but was quickly serenaded by the Cyclones attack including Cameron’s hat trick goal that was scored unassisted at 19:12. A shot from the far side of the left wing faceoff circle eluded Smiths glove hand and found its way into the top corner of the mesh.

 The Cyclones took a commanding 5 - 0 lead into the third, played a simple game of fore checking and keeping the puck deep in the Elmira zone. In the latter half of the 3^rd frame of play, the Elmira spoil sports resurfaced to try and cause trouble and general mayhem, but the Cyclones emerged unscathed. There was a considerable amount of chopping, pushing, shoving, chirping etc, but nothing to get in a twist about.  A late Elmira power play goal through traffic at the 16:41 mark did not do anything to alter the Cyclones stride until the final buzzer had sounded. Elmira had thought they had a goal scored with 8:36 left in the 3^rd but after further review (and phone a relative?) it was ruled that no goal had been scored in the first place, making for the odd play of the night.

 So now the series shifts back to Elmira for a pivotal Game #5, as the Finals now becomes a best 2 of 3 winner take all showdown. Game time is 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 6^th.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 4 Points: Anthony Peters – Number 33 was stellar in the blue paint for the Cyclones, turning away 34 of 35 shots, including several PP shots from close range. Winning hockey begins with strong defensive efforts and the Blyth native did just that this evening.

 4 Points: Caleb Cameron – Number 10 had a banner night for the Red, White and Black as he notched the hat trick to fuel the offensive fire of the home side tonight. Winning hockey is clinched with strong offensive ability and the Sundridge native delivered that in spades for his team.

 3 Points: Brett Catto – Number 17 was up to his usual bag of tricks scoring 1G and setting up 2 more, plus getting in the face of the opposition this evening. The Kincardine native continues to make his mark for the Cyclones in the 2011 playoff season and his effort tonight was another key ingredient in this win.

 2 Points: David Dalby - Number 9 played another solid playoff game, delivering 2 A on offence and some hard work on defence and the PK. The Stratford native is like an on ice handy man - versatile, skilled, rugged, and has many tools available at his disposal to get the job done.

 1 Point: is awarded to the rest of the Cyclones game roster. Scoring plays, blocked shots, face offs won, face offs denied to the other team, hits made, hits taken, finished checks, puck battles won in the corners, in front of the net and in neutral ice. All of that “stuffâ€Â� adds up to making the difference between winning and losing. More than ever, the execution of the overall game plan becomes crucial to the team’s continued playoff success.

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness continues to overflow into the month of April as the Cyclonic furor of this post season run continues to spread. The Cyclones Storm warning remains in effect as the Cyclones are poised for another significant and determined effort in Game #5.

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

SugarKings Take  Game 3 With 2-1 Victory

Game #3 of the 2011 Cherrey Cup Finals took place Sunday, April 3^rd at the Dan Snyder Memorial Arena. The visiting Cyclones looked towards gaining their first road win of the series and getting a leg up on their adversary but they fell one goal short by a narrow 2-1 margin. The first period of this contest was a highly spirited affair as both teams battled hard in the trenches so to speak, and both teams battled each other close for the entire 60 minutes of play.

 All the scoring came early on in the game. The Cyclones scored first at 11:56 when David Dalby led a right wing rush but was knocked off the puck hard by an Elmira defender. Brett Catto was right there to pound the loose puck off of the pads of Nick Horrigan with a cannonading shot from the right wing side. Caleb Cameron was on the left wing to gather the generous rebound as he patiently watched Horrigan scramble across to cover his net before finding an open spot and ripping the rebound home. Elmira tied the match exactly 6 minutes later with a jam play in the crease and then at 4:52 after a Cyclones penalty had expired, Elmira scored the winner with a swift cross ice back door pass and a quick one time shot from the left face-off circle into the open side before anyone could reposition themselves to defend against the shot.

 Once again both teams were shut out on the power play. Elmira was 0 for 7 and the Cyclones were 0 for 5 including a huge 5 minute major checking from behind penalty at 2:53 of the 1^st period. Nick Mac Eacheren was clearly on a head hunting mission as he caught Cyclones defender Mac Nichol square in the back and rammed him hard into the boards. Elmira’s Number 22 will have to miss the bus for the next game (and maybe more) as he will be watching from the stands to serve out the suspension time that is attached to such an infraction.

 The Cyclones had a total of 33 shots on goal while Elmira managed 35 at Anthony Peters in the Cyclones net. Both teams battled hard in a fairly tightly contested match, and tempers were especially elevated in the first 20 minutes. The Cyclones had opportunities to score more goals but at times they could not generate enough of a cohesive offensive attack in order to convert those opportunities into goals.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Anthony Peters – Number 33 was stellar in the paint for the Cyclones, turning away 33 of 35 shots, including a short-handed breakaway save on Woolley early in the first period, followed by 2 consecutive goal line saves on the PK midway through the first period, some tricky shots on the PK in the second period, and another partial break away blocker save late in the third. The Blyth native continues to battle hard for the full game and does what he can to keep his team in the game.

 2 Points: Mac Nichol – Number 8 played a heroic game despite the head hunting that was aimed at him during the match. Mac Eacheren and Pearce both tried to taking runs at Mac, to do what they could to force the Cyclones defender from the game, but the Listowel native would not be intimidated or pushed off. Mac’s courage and determination will pay dividends as this series continues.

  1Point Each: David Dalby and Sam Paterson - Number 9 had another up tempo effort as he paid the price to help set up the 1^st and only Cyclones goal of the game, by initiating the rush, gaining the zone and taking the big hit. Number 25 is worn by Sam Paterson and he is a typical stay at home defenceman that logs lots of ice time and helps do the dirty work in the corners and in front of the net. Whether it is taking the man, battling for the puck or making the extra poke or check on the PK, Sam works hard and does not disappoint with his effort level.

 Game #4 takes place Tuesday, April 5^th at Listowel Memorial Arena. The opening faceoff is slated for 7:30 p.m. and it is anticipated that this game will be another tightly contested match between these two clubs.

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness continues to overflow into the month of April as the Cyclonic furor of this post season run continues to spread. The Cyclones Storm warning remains in effect as the Cyclones are poised for another all out effort in Game #4.

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Cyclones Tie Series With 4-2 Win In Listowel

Game #2 of the 2011 Cherrey Cup Finals took place Friday, April 1^st at Listowel Memorial Arena. The home town Cyclones reversed their fortunes in this Series with a strong 4-2 victory over the Elmira Sugar Kings. The match was another highly spirited 60 minutes of “in your face� hockey as both teams played with an increased amount of intensity, and the style of play by both teams was indicative of how both squads have squared off so evenly against each against each other all season long. The win gives the Red, White and Black a foothold in the Finals and gives them a boost for their morale heading into Game #3 on Sunday afternoon in Elmira.

 The Cyclones got on the score board early at the 14 second mark. After controlling the opening faceoff a quick shot on the Elmira goal was stopped to produce another face off in the right wing circle. The Cyclones controlled the puck after that face off, as Brett Catto grabbed the loose disk and quickly fired another shot towards the opposing net. The puck bounced off of the goaltender Nick Horrigan and there was just enough time and space for Caleb Cameron to scoop up the loose puck and tap in the rebound along the ice, tucking the puck just inside the far post. Elmira responded with some close fore checking and a swift attacking style which produced their 1^st goal at 4:45. A left wing dump in was sent wide of that side of the net, the resulting battle was won by the Green clad visitors who passed the puck to the 3^rd man trailing the play. Kraus buried the biscuit, assisted by MacDonald and Woolley. Both teams continued to push back and forth for the next goal but neither team was willing to surrender anything. At 13:16 the Cyclones managed to get the next goal at even strength. Brett Catto started the play with a solid hit in right wing corner, and then controlled the loose puck, working it free to David Dalby for a crisp shot on goal. There was just enough of a rebound created that Caleb Cameron could retrieve the puck and quickly curl around the sprawled goaltender and stuff it in on the left wing side - untouched by any Elmira defenders. After 20 minutes, the shots on goal were 10 for each team and the hometown Cyclones held a hard fought 2-1 lead.

 In the second period, both teams continued to play a pitched man on man battle. The Sugar Kings scored once on their 13 shots, tying the game at 11:16. After creating some sustained pressure inside the Cyclones zone with a strong fore check and cycling effort; a shot from the high slot by Pearce caught Anthony Peters off guard. Undaunted by this turn of events, the Cyclones responded quickly with a go ahead goal at 12:18. 

Caleb Cameron won the battle for the loose puck in the left wing corner of the Elmira zone. A sharp tape to tape pass was made and Brett Catto took a stride to square up to the net before roofing a hot shot over the mitt of Horrigan. Wow, what a shot. After falling silent 62 seconds earlier, the building erupted in jubilation as the Cyclones regained their lead. Both teams continued to battle and the Cyclones had an important 5 on 3 power play for 63 seconds late in the period but could not capitalize on that opportunity.

 In the third period both teams continued to play a game of cat and mouse, strike and counter strike but not many clear cut scoring chances were surrendered by either team. Brett Catto sent a wrist shot just wide of the far post, past the blocker of Horrigan and a promising 2 on 1 rush with Captain Bobby Cook and Tanner Simpson was broken up by the Elmira defender. As the period wore on, the Cyclones seemed to take a more defensive stance as the Sugar Kings continued their aggressive fore checking style. With 8:46 left, the Sugar Kings Brad Kraus decided to rough things up with a check from behind on Anthony Peters, as the Blyth native played the puck behind his net. This touched off a fully fledged 3 on 3 scrum as the Cyclones jumped in to the defense of their net minder. When all was said and done, Kraus was given an interference penalty and a 10n minute misconduct for taking a selfish and undisciplined second run at Peters well after the scrums had ended. The Cyclones had a golden chance to increase their lead and control of the game but their power play efforts were thwarted by a stingy Elmira PK effort. After the successful penalty kill, Elmira then went on the attack in an all out effort to tie the game and for the next 3 minutes the pushed hard at the Cyclones zone, especially after drawing a Cyclones penalty with 4:01 left to play. A spirited PK effort by the Cyclones produced the game breaking goal at the 17:17 mark. From deep inside of his own zone, Cyclones d-man Sam Paterson dumped a long shot into the right wing corner of the Elmira zone, where the puck took a crazy bounce off the boards and into the right wing faceoff circle. The puck was quickly grabbed by Brett Catto who snapped it into the open net, which had been vacated by Horrigan; who had come out to play the puck, but was quickly caught in no man’s land with no chance at either retrieving the puck or recovering his position to properly defend against the shot. The Cyclones successfully killed off the remaining 42 seconds of their penalty and Anthony Peters and his mates shut the door for the rest of the way, including a successful resistance of a 6 on 5 extra man attack by Elmira during the last 90 seconds or so of the game.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Brett Catto - Number 17 played large for the Red, White & Black logging countless minutes on the forward lines for the Cyclones in all situations. The Kincardine native led all scorers with 2G and 2 A and was a driving force in tonight’s Cyclones victory. Brett will be counted for more of the same effort and involvement as this series continues.

 2 Points: Caleb Cameron - Number 10 also played a big role for the Cyclones in their first Series win. The Sundridge native scored 2 G and helped set up the eventual game winner in the second period. Caleb continues to put forth a strong playoff effort in this his rookie season on the GOJHL; combining with Brett Catto to deliver and awesome1-2 scoring punch on the forward line this evening.

  1Point: David Dalby - Number 9 had another superlative effort and earned an assist on the Cyclones second goal of the game. Stratford’s loss is Listowel’s gain as the Festival City native has had another strong playoff game effort and this also his rookie year in the GOJHL.

 Game #3 goes Sunday, April 3^rd at the Dan Snyder Memorial Arena in Elmira – the opening faceoff is slated for 2:00 p.m.

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness continues to overflow into the month of April as the Cyclonic furor of this post season run continues to spread. The Cyclones Storm warning remains in effect as the Cyclones are poised for another all out effort in Game #3.

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

SugarKings Take Game 1 With 4-1 Victory

Game #1 of the 2011 Cherrey Cup Finals took place Wednesday, March 30^th at Dan Snyder Memorial Arena and after 60 minutes of play the home side Elmira Sugar Kings skated away with a 4-1 win. With help from the iron (x 3) the home squad repelled 39 of 40 Cyclones shots on goal while capitalizing on their scoring chances and taking in some good fortunes around the blue paint in the Cyclones end. Brett Catto got the Red, White and Black rolling with a first period power play goal at 8:50, with assists from Ryan Horvat and Captain Bobby Cook. That was all for the Cyclones as they were stymied for the rest of the game by Elmira goaltender Nick Horrigan and his pals the metal uprights and metal cross members for the rest of the night. The Cyclones were tied at 1 after 20 minutes, down 2-1 after 40 minutes, down  3-1 early in the 3^rd and then an empty net goal sealed the deal for the home side late in the 3^rd period. The Cyclones were 1 for 5 on the PP and 1 for 2 on the PK. That is the short version of the night’s events. More details to follow later on.

 Game #2 goes Friday, April 2^nd at Listowel Memorial Arena – the opening faceoff is slated for 7:30 p.m.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Mac Nichol: Number 8 played large for the Red, White & Black logging countless minutes on the blueline for the Cyclones in all situations. The Listowel native will be counted for more of the same effort and involvement as this series continues.

 2 Points: Anthony Peters - Number 33 repelled 31 of the 34 shots that he faced in the opening game of the Series and did what he could to keep his team in the game. No fault on the Blyth native this evening as he was sharp and battled for the full duration; as he has done in every game this post season.

 1 Point: David Dalby and Brett Catto - Number 9 and Number 17 both had decent performances for the Cyclones, creating scoring chances and causing trouble for the opposing forces; but both players will probably tell you that they were not happy at missing some good opportunities to put some points on the scoreboard.  Nevertheless, this duo was working hard and was making some good plays; and their continued efforts will very soon bear out the results that they are looking for.

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness will overflow into the month of April as the Cyclonic furor of this post season run continues to spread. A Storm warning remains in effect as the Cyclones are poised to regroup and bounce back with an all out effort in Game #2.

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Welcome Cyclones fans to the 2011 Cherrey Cup Finals.

 It has been a long and winding journey since the first training camps of August 2010 and after many twists and turns in the Listowel Cyclones’ hockey season, the Red, White and Black now find themselves in the 2011GOJHL Midwest Division Final Series.

 The Cyclones last trip to the Midwest Final was in 2005 where they defeated the Owen Sound Greys 4 games to 2. The win was the team’s 1^st ever Cherrey Cup Title and they did so in front of their home fans at Memorial Arena. In the 3 team round robin that followed, the Cyclones put forth a valiant effort but finished third overall, as they could not get past the Chatham Maroons and the eventual Sutherland Champions, the Thorold Blackhawks.

 In 2006, the Cyclones came within a Dennis Dewar crossbar shot of scoring a dramatic Game #7 double overtime winner in their Semi Final series against the Cambridge Winterhawks. The Winterhawks would win that Game #7 thriller at the Shade Street Arena and then would go on to win both the Midwest Division and the 2006 Sutherland Cup Championships.

 In 2008, the Cyclones made it to Game #7 of the Midwest Division Semi Finals, and held a2-1 lead with 30 minutes to play; but playoff nemesis and defending 2007 Sutherland Cup Champions Cambridge pulled out the win, only to lose to Elmira in the 2008 Midwest Final Series.

 Today, standing in the way of a 2^nd Cyclones Cherrey Cup Championship ring are Highway #86 arch rivals the Elmira Sugar Kings.

 For their part, Elmira’s last visit to the Midwest Final was in 2008. It was a successful one as they defeated the defending 2007 Midwest Division and 2007 Sutherland Cup Champion Cambridge Winterhawks 4 games to 2. After making it through the 3 team round robin playoff against Thorold and Tecumseh, the Kings lost the 2008 Sutherland Cup Final Series in 4 games straight against the Tecumseh Chiefs (LaSalle Vipers).

 In the 2010 / 2011 Regular Season, both teams won against each other 3 times, with both teams winning once in each other’s buildings. Expect more of the same in this epic playoff series. Getting to the Midwest Finals is not a feat to be taken lightly. The 2011 Cyclones have arrived and they are getting ready to make the most of this golden opportunity. From this point onwards it is a matter of how well the team can execute their game plan both on the ice and in between their ears. Everything is magnified – each play, loose puck battle, shot, save, rebound, icing, offside, blocked shot, penalty and penalty kill. More than ever, the margin for victory becomes slimmer and the stakes become ever higher.

 All season long the Cyclones have battled through the learning curves that every newly assembled team must endure; and all season long they have battled hard to meet the challenges laid down by their opponents. The time is now at hand to cash in on a season’s worth of experience and hard work that has formed and shaped the team into its current identity. The coaching staff of Dave Williams, Jeff Bloemberg, Matt Desmeules and Steve Leith will have the Red, White and Black ready to go for another thrilling and exciting playoff series.

 The Battle of Highway #86 will have another blockbuster set of chapters added to the already overflowing list of tales that have been scripted by these two teams over many years of Midwest Division play. The ink is barely dry on this report and the tension, excitement and anticipation of another hotly contested playoff series is already mounting with each passing hour until the first Game #1 face off.

 Stay tuned Cyclones fans as more information will be coming soon on the Cherrey Cup Finals schedule.

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness continues to reign supreme as an extended Cyclonic Storm warning remains in effect for all of Perth County and into Waterloo Region

 It’s time to lace up the blades and Unleash The Storm!!!!!!!!! Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Cyclones Win Game 6 to Take Series 4 Games to 2

YIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 The Cyclones are heading to the 2011 Cherrey Finals after their March 25^th 4-3 home ice victory over the Guelph Hurricanes, clinching the Semi Final Series 4 games to 2.

 Both the Cyclones and the Hurricanes rewrote the definition of excitement and drama as the script that was Game #6 of this series was played out on the Memorial Arena ice pad.

 After a grueling and dramatic Game #5 from the Thursday night before, both teams started out slowly and cautiously but by the 8^th minute, both teams had found their stride and were roaring up and down the ice with end to end action. Almost 700 fans were attendance waiting to see if the Cyclones could punch their ticket to the Division Finals with their 1^st home ice win of the series; or if Guelph could steal another road win for a chance to force a 7^th and deciding game back at the Sleeman Centre. An industrious shift by Pat Bell, David Dalby and Brett Mc Guinness gave the Cyclones some life and got their offensive attack rolling. Later on the Cyclones struck the score sheet 1^st at 14:34 with an even strength rush that started deep in their own end. With Guelph pressing for a goal, a shot on goal was bobbled by Anthony Peters but the loose puck was quickly gathered up by Cyclones d-man Blake Thompson. The rookie blueliner made a simple clearing attempt off of the left wing boards and the puck took a fortuitous bounce off the bottom dasher, hopping over the stick of the opposing Guelph blueliner and into neutral ice. From there, Cyclones Captain Bobby Cook quickly scooped up the loose puck and roared down the left wing, with Tanner Simpson to his far right, creating a 2on 1 odd man rush. A feinted pass froze the d-man, and cause d the Guelph goaltender to open up just enough short side room to allow the speedy Lambeth native enough time and space to roof a back hand; as the home crowd roared with their approval and delight. In reply, Hurricanes speedster forward Martin Kudla put on a clinic of his own by tying the game 14 seconds later with a fine effort down the left wing before cutting hard to the net and burying the shot past Anthony Peters. Wow, what a move.  Erik Belanger and Andrew McDermott drew assists on the tying goal. After a slow start both teams made up for that with a brisk finish as Guelph held a slim 11 – 10 shots on goal advantage.

 In the second period both teams had power play chances go awry before the Cyclones Brett Catto and the Hurricanes Erik Belanger locked horns along the boards to the right of the Hurricanes net. Belanger got some early swings in before Catto could respond and after finally popping off Belanger’s helmet, the wily Kincardine native had his free hand cocked and ready before landing a solid upper cut and then an overhand jab before the linesmen stepped in to break up the melee. Although this tactic had taken Catto out of the game it backfired on the Hurricanes as they lost their lead forward and power play pivot for the rest of the game. The loss of Belanger weakened their attacking ability for the rest of the night and the scrap by Catto energized and inspired the Cyclones bench. Two successive penalties by Guelph late in the period provided the Cyclones with power plays, including a 25 second stretch of 5 on 3 play, but no goals could be had. The momentum of the power plays did carry over as the Cyclones continued to blitz the Guelph zone with a hard fore check. Pat Bell rode his man hard into the end boards, effectively creating an odd man situation down low, as Tyler Evoy gathered the loose puck from the right wing side, squared up to the net and rifled a blistering shot that eluded the mitt of Taylor O’Keefe in the Guelph net. Ryan Horvat and Blake Thompson drew assists on the play. After 40 minutes of play the home side entered the dressing room with a 2-1 lead as the home crowd sensed that a victory was starting to come into focus. The Cyclones outshot Guelph by 12 to 7 Margin in the 2^nd period.

 The third period started with some strange & crazy plays as a Cyclones clearing attempt off of the face off in their own zone sailed straight towards Anthony Peters who quickly snared the puck and kept it out of harm’s way. Meanwhile at the other end, Bobby Cook had a golden chance for a go ahead goal after speeding in on a breakaway, but he was denied, as the Hurricanes were trapped inside the Cyclones zone looking for the equalizer. Both teams battled back and forth for the next goal like 2 prized gladiators swinging their broad swords at each other in a fever pitched battle of power and iron fisted will.

At 11:06 it would be Guelph who scored next on the power play as Griffin Lacey took a centering pass from behind the net and slammed the puck past Anthony Peters and a helpless Brett Brophy, whose stick had been stripped away from him seconds earlier and he could not do much to defend against the pass or to prevent the shot from being made.

Shortly after the tying goal the Cyclones were staring down the barrel of another Guelph power play with 8:29 remaining as the Hurricanes sensed that it was their turn to gain the upper hand of this game and perhaps this series. 72 seconds later that idea was washed out when the Cyclones scored their biggest shorthanded goal of the season thus far. A clearing attempt by Blake Thompson made it as far as the Cyclones blueline before it was stopped by the Guelph blueliner, in the spot usually occupied on the Hurricanes power play by the now departed Erik Belanger. Lucknow native Tanner Simpson charged hard for the puck, knocking the Guelph player off the puck, bulldozing him aside and tearing down the right wing in one continuous motion. Number 22 led the 2 on 1 break and unleashed a hard shot off the pads of Taylor O’Keefe that went airborne before it was batted out of mid air and into the back of the net by Cyclones Captain Bobby Cook. The place went nuts as the home town crowd erupted with a thunderous cheer as the Cyclones regained their game lead with 7:17 remaining in the 3^rd period. The Cyclones successfully killed off the remaining 48 seconds of their penalty and resumed their fore checking attack on the Guelph zone. Some determined speed and hustle by Pat Bell forced a turnover which created a loose puck in the hash marks, where Caleb Cameron got to it first and ripped a blazing wrist shot through Taylor O’Keefe to make it a 4-2 Cyclones lead with 5:01 remaining. The Memorial Arena crowd erupted with another ovation of thunderous applause and cheers as chants of “Go Cycs Go� echoed throughout the building. Frantically, Guelph battled to get pucks deep and pressure the Cyclones zone but the Red, White and Black resisted all attempts until Guelph struck at 17:28 with 6 skaters against 5. Guelph then received a penalty at 18:25and went for broke, vacating their net for a second scoring chance with time running out. Tanner Simpson had a chance at the empty net but his shot sailed way over everything with 57.6 seconds left to play. The referees made the Cyclones sweat it out with a Cyclones penalty call at 19:24, leading to a wild conclusion as Guelph’s 5 skaters tried desperately to out muscle the 4 Cyclones defenders and Anthony Peters, but to no avail. The final buzzer sounded and the entire building erupted in a frenzy of hollering, screams and cheers as the Cyclones poured off of the bench in jubilation and celebration. WOW!!!! What a Wild Ride.

 Both teams lined up at centre ice and shook hands after engaging in a hard fought and well played series. Credit the Hurricanes players and management for a solid effort and for a very successful season for their franchise. They were a very worthy playoff opponent and a very worthy adversary all season long.

 Once the handshakes were finished, the Cyclones players gathered at centre ice to wave their sticks in salute to their fans, acknowledging and thanking them for their continued support during this 2011 March Madness Playoff Run.

 Next Stop…..a berth in the Cherrey Cup Finals against arch rival Elmira Sugar Kings. The Battle of Highway #86 will have another blockbuster set of chapters added to the overflowing list of tales already scripted by these two teams over the years of Midwest Division play. The ink is barely dry on this report and the tension, excitement and anticipation of another hotly contested playoff series is already mounting.

 Stay tuned Cyclones fans as more information will be coming soon on the Cherrey Cup Finals schedule.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 4 Points: Bobby Cook: Number 16 played large for the Red, White & Black scoring that all important 1^st goal of the game and then giving his team a massive lift with his mid air shorthanded in the 3^rd period. There is no doubt that the Cyclones Captain is at the top of his game during the thick of the playoff action.

 3 Points: Tanner Simpson: Number 22 was another Cyclonic force to be reckoned with on the ice tonight for Listowel. Nothing, not even a brick wall or a steel curtain was going to stop the Lucknow native in this game and he showed it with his play, including his set up of the short - handed goal by Cook. Awesome.

 2 Points Each: Anthony Peters and Tyler Evoy – Number 33 stopped 33 of 35 enemy shots on goal while Number 11 put forth an inspiring and tireless effort, sniping the Cyclones second goal to give his team the lead after 40 minutes. Both veteran 20 year olds battled hard all game long and all series long to help lead their team to victory. Anthony’s stubborn efforts in the Cyclones blue paint and Tyler’s persistent play exemplified the Cyclones compete level as they took another huge step towards a championship.

 1Point: The rest of the Cyclones game roster earns a single point for their individual and collective efforts in getting making the sacrifices needed to the job done, to secure the Game #6 victory and their berth in the Cherrey Cup Finals. Little things add up to big things & this was definitely the case in tonight’s Semi Final Series clincher. This team has the stuff to compete, game in and game out; and won’t be intimidated by anyone or anything.

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness continues to reign supreme as an extended Cyclonic Storm warning remains in effect for all of Perth County and now extends into the Region of Waterloo. Bring’em Out!!!!!!

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Cyclones Win Game 5 To Take 3-2 Series Lead

Welcome Once More to the GOJHL Midwest Division Semi Finals as March Madness Reigns Supreme in Cyclones Nation. With the series deadlocked at 2 games apiece for each team it was time for one team to emerge with the series lead. Exactly which team would do so remained a mystery from the opening face-off of Game #5 right up until the final buzzer to end the third period. What happened in between was a wretched tale of shock, awe and disbelief. The Game #5 action on March 24^th / 2011 at the Guelph Sleeman Centre can only be described as some sort of high school chemistry lab experiment gone sideways.

 The match featured the officiating styling of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, lopsided shots on goal totals, shots off of goal posts and cross bars, missed power play chances (a combined 2 for 20 success rate), controversial penalty calls, controversial missed penalty calls, 2 short - handed goals, 2 power play goals and missed empty net goals. Both teams and their fans were scratching their heads during this game and after this game. After 60 minutes of play the Red, White and Black emerged triumphant with the narrowest of wins by a 3-2 score. Neither science nor pure and applied logic could ever be used to fully explain the final outcome of this game.

 What can be told are the heroic efforts made by the Cyclones as they battled to win this game on opposition ice. After spotting Guelph a 1-0 lead from a Belanger power play goal, Brett Mc Guinness sprung Ryan Horvat loose on a short-handed sprint to the net, wherein, Number 14 fended off a retreating defender while flipping a shot over Tyler O’Keefe, knotting the score at 1’s at 17:14 of the 1^st period. Guelph regained their lead at 18:30 a foot race to a loose puck on a long shoot in play was won by the Guelph forward Cremasco; as he swooped in, gathered the loose puck in the right wing corner, and then drove hard to the net before snapping it into the mesh past Anthony Peters. This would be the very last goal for the Hurricanes in this game as the Blyth native would surrender nothing further to the opposition snipers.

 In the second period after much angst in the Cyclones offensive zone, it was the combo of Luke Turcotte and Captain Bobby Cook that managed to level out and square the score at 2-2 during a Cyclones penalty kill. The veteran defender Turcotte intercepted a Guelph pass inside his own zone and set Cook loose down the right wing side. The Captain gathered speed and momentum as he crossed the Guelph blueline before unleashing a bullet shot past a helpless Guelph net minder. This time there would be no late period goal by the hosts and both teams retired to their respective rooms tied at 2 after 40 minutes.

 After a generous helping of Jimmy Scott’s magic bananas during the intermission, the Cyclones were re-energized and they swiftly seized the initiative with a badly needed power play goal at the 4:43 mark of the 3^rd period. Mac Nichol and Brett Catto worked a shot on goal, which then produced a healthy rebound into the hash marks, where rookie sniper Caleb Cameron gathered, wheeled and fired the loose puck all in one fluid motion. Boo-Yah!!! For the 1^st time in recent recollection, the Cyclones played a penalty free third period and they used that to their greatest advantage as they proceeded to shut down the Guelph attack for the rest of the game. With the Guelph net empty, the Cyclones withstood a late but desperate short- handed offensive flurry by Guelph with scant seconds left on game clock, thus escaping with a narrow 3-2 victory.

 Another Cyclonic Hockey Ride in the form of Game #6 will await to be played on Friday, March 25^th at 7:30 p.m. in Listowel. Make the trip to Memorial Arena and witness firsthand how the next chapter of this epic playoff series drama will play itself out.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points Each: Anthony Peters and Ryan Horvat – Number 33 stopped 28 of 30 enemy shots on goal while Number 14 put forth an inspiring and tireless effort; as both young men battled hard all game long to help lead their team to victory. Anthony’s stubborn efforts in the Cyclones blue paint and Ryan’s stubbornness and sheer determination in scoring the Cyclones 1^st goal totally exemplified the Cyclones compete level.

 2 Points: Captain Bobby Cook and Caleb Cameron: Number 16 was inspired by the efforts of Peters and Horvat as he sniped a short- handed goal of his own, worked hard in key game situations and he paid the price in the dying seconds of the game, blocking a shot in the face. Ouch. Meanwhile, Number 10 continued his trend towards timely scoring, bagging the game winner and giving his team a much needed lift early in the 3^rd period when the game outcome was still largely in doubt.

1Point: The rest of the Cyclones game roster earns a single point for their individual and collective efforts in getting the job done by whatever means that was made available to them to secure the Game #5 victory. Little things add up to big things & this was definitely the case in tonight’s Semi Final Series playoff game.

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness continues to reign supreme as an extended Cyclonic Storm warning remains in effect for all of Perth and Wellington Counties.

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Hurricanes Even The Series With 4-2 Win

Welcome Once More to the GOJHL Midwest Division Semi Finals as March Madness Reigns Supreme in Cyclones Nation. After the Cyclones jumped out to a 2-0 Semi Final Series lead with 2 big wins in Guelph at the Sleeman Centre; the Hurricanes responded with a 6-2 win at Memorial Arena in Game #3 to get themselves back into the Series. Game #4 was played out on Memorial Arena ice on March 22^nd and although the Cyclones gave an improved effort over their previous match, it was not quite enough as the Hurricanes prevailed again, this time by a 4 – 2 count.

 The Cyclones jumped out to a quick 1-0 lead at the 3:03 mark of the first period when Blake Thompson set up defence partner Luke Turcotte for a sizzling point shot which was stopped, but Caleb Cameron was available to roof home the juicy rebound. The Cyclones managed to hold off 3 Guelph power plays before surrendering an even strength tying goal at 16:30. The Hurricanes pulled ahead at 7:48 of the second period but despite some concerted efforts to tie the game, all went for naught until the Cyclones hit the mesh at 7:20 of the third period. Caleb Cameron dumped in a text book diagonal shoot in that was expertly retrieved and controlled by Ryan Horvat and Brett Catto, before the centering pass from Catto was quickly dispatched into the back of the net by Cameron. The shine of that Cyclonic scoring play faded quickly as Guelph regained their 1 goal lead at 8:55 and then an insurance marker was added on the power play at the 13:51. The Cyclones could not generate any rumblings of a comeback drive in the final minutes of the 3^rd period as Guelph managed to keep the Cyclones attack off balance for a majority of the time remaining in the game.

 If there was a lack of emotion and intensity between these two teams during the first two games of this series, then the aftermath of Games #3 and #4 can leave no doubt that both squads have definitely discovered ways to push each other’s buttons in a major way. Moving forward, the deciding factor for both teams will continue to be discipline (or any lack thereof) as they prepare for Game #5 action set for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 23^rd at the Sleeman Centre in Guelph..

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Caleb Cameron – Number 10 scored twice to account for all of the Cyclones scoring and he competed hard all night long. Look for the Cyclones rookie to continue his hot scoring touch as the series shifts to Game #5.

 2 Points: David Dalby and Brett Mc Guinness – Number 9 and Number 12 were once again a cyclonically dynamic duo up front for the Red, White and Black. Brett and David are usually found on the ice working hard and creating some sort of mischief either on the PK or at even strength, as they have an ability to drive the opposition bonkers with their unrelenting hustle and work effort.

 1 Point: Anthony Peters: Number 33 turned away 32 of 36 Guelph shots and held his mates in contention until the final buzzer. The Blyth native stood his ground inside the blue paint and regardless of any on ice comments directed towards him, Anthony will not be intimidated. Instead he will be inspired to battle even harder and more fiercely.

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness continues to reign supreme as an extended Cyclonic Storm warning remains in effect for all of Perth and Wellington Counties.

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Guelph Win Game 3, 6-2

Welcome Once More to the GOJHL Midwest Division Semi Finals as March Madness Reigns Supreme in Cyclones Nation. After jumping out to a 2-0 Semi Final Series lead with 2 big wins in Guelph at the Sleeman Centre; the Cyclones returned home to Memorial Arena on Sunday March 20^th / 2011 to resume their playoff quest.

 Prior to the start of the game, the 600 plus spectators in attendance observed a minute of silence for Ken Rea and Ray Walter - two North Perth Volunteer Firemen who perished in the line of duty while responding to a fire call in downtown Listowel on the afternoon of March 17^th.  Deepest and heartfelt sympathies are extended to both their families and to their colleagues.

 On the way home from Guelph, the Cyclones must have left behind their recipe book for success as they dropped a 6-2 decision to the Guelph Hurricanes. Having given up only 2 power play goals in 2 games, the Cyclones were stung for 5 PP goals and could only muster 1 of their own in return. Down 2-0 after the first period the Cyclones had more than ample power play opportunities in the second period to climb back into contention. Ryan Horvat and Brandon Passley assisted on Captain Bobby Cook’s power play goal at 5:59 of the second period, drawing the Cyclones to within 1, but that was as close as they could get after 40 minutes.

 A breakdown of team discipline in the third period greased the skids towards  the Cyclones Game #3 downfall as Guelph pumped in 4 power play goals while the Red, White and Black responded only once with a nifty unassisted short - handed dash by David Dalby at 15:58. The disciplinary breakdown was fuelled by frustration and some repeated and undetected Guelph infractions that were incurred behind the play during the first two periods of the game. This; coupled with more of the same activity in the 3^rd period set the fuse for an explosive and rowdy finish. The conclusion of Game #3 turned sour when a massive brouhaha erupted at 18:21 resulting in over 30 penalty minutes and a multitude of misconducts.

 If there was a lack of emotion and intensity between these two teams during the first two games of this series, then the aftermath of Game #3 leaves no doubt that both squads have definitely discovered ways to push each other’s buttons in a major way. Moving forward, the deciding factor for both teams may very well be discipline (or any lack thereof) as they prepare for Game #4 action set for 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 22^nd at Listowel Memorial Arena.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Bobby Cook – Number 16 competed hard all night long, scoring the Cyclones first goal, but it was not enough as the Cyclones could not fully get on track in the game. Look for the Cyclones Captain to lead the way as he and his teammates regroup and get themselves back on track.

 2 Point: David Dalby – Number 9 scored the second Cyclones goal on a highlight reel short - handed solo effort. After initially breaking up a passing play inside the Cyclones zone, the rookie forward raced down the left wing, beat the defender in the race for the loose puck, and without stopping he snapped a high and hard shot that caught the far corner over the shoulder of a surprised Guelph net minder.

 1 Point: Tanner Simpson: Number 22 has brought his “Aâ€Â� game and bundles of coarse grit sandpaper to the 2011 GOJHL Playoffs. As this series progresses, the Lucknow native will be counted on by his team and his coaches to deliver more of the same towards a feisty and rowdy opponent.

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness continues to reign supreme as an extended Cyclonic Storm warning remains in effect for all of Perth County and now for all of Wellington County!!!!!

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Cyclones Take Game 2 With 5-0 Win

On Sat. March 19th, the Cyclones travelled to Guelph and came home with a well deserved 5-0 victory. Anthony Peters was perfect in the game as he stopped all 30 shots that were fired at him. The rest of his team did their part as they scored once in the first and then two in each of the 2nd and 3rd periods. 

Tyler Evoy scored what proved to be the winner as he was assisted by Brett Brophy and Bobby Cook. In the 2nd period, Mac Nichol scored a great goal to complete some fine passes from Brett Catto and Ryan Horvat. Brett Catto would score a nice one of his own with a top shelf shot that was assisted by Horvat.

Throughout the game, it was key for the Cyclones to remain disciplined as there was a great deal of after the whistle activity and commentary.

In the 3rd period, Caleb Cameron rifled a sweet shot inside the post after some picture perfect passes from Jeff Bauer and Patrick Bell. With time running down in the game, Brett Catto scored his 2nd goal of the game to complete the scoring. Blake Thompson and Bobby Cook picked up assists. 

Full marks go to the entire team as they gave Cyclonic efforts to earn their 2nd win of the series. With a depleted defense, the 5 D that suited up were tremendous.

The Sleeman Stars of the Game go to:

3pts- Anthony Peters as he shut out the Hurricanes by stopping all 30 shots.

2 pts- Brett Catto as he scored 2 goals and 1 assist and was a force all game long.

1 pt each: The Cyclone Defense of: Mac Nichol, Blake Thompson, Sam Patterson, Jordan Leyser, and Brett Brophy.

Cyclones Earn 4-3 OT Win 

Welcome to the GOJHL Midwest Division Semi Finals as March Madness Reigns Supreme in Cyclones Nation. Within days of completing their 7 Game Quarter Finals Series comeback victory over their cross county rivals, the Cyclones found themselves inside the Sleeman Centre, pitted head to head against the Midwest Division’s #1 team, the Guelph Hurricanes. In the regular season, both teams were separated from each other in the standings by a difference of 3 wins and 7 points. On Thursday, March 17^th / 2011, during the Semi Final series opener, the margin of difference was by one overtime goal, and that margin favored the visiting Cyclones.

 The Red, White and Black started the game off strong relative to the home side and used a good fore checking game to create some offensive pressure and good scoring chances. After the opening 10 minutes, the Cyclones held a 7 to 2 shots on goal advantage and were on their first power play of the game. The Cyclones cashed in on that man advantage with their 1^st goal of the game at 10:47. Mac Nichol and Ryan Horvat relayed the puck inside the Guelph zone before passing off to Captain Bobby Cook who ripped a shot from inside the blue line that found its way through traffic and over the blocker of Guelph net minder Mike Mitchell. After that play, the Cyclones Pat Bell made a dangerous rush but the shot went high and wide. Guelph’s Jake Weidner responded with a shot from inside the hash marks that was stopped by Anthony Peters. A 4 on 4 situation turned advantageous for the Cyclones at 14:36 when Pat Bell and Tyler Evoy worked the give and go to perfection. The play started with Pat scooping up a rebound off the pads of Peters, and then head manning the puck to clear the defensive zone. Pat passed off to Tyler who then accelerated through the neutral zone before sending the return feed to Pat Bell by way of a crisp tape to tape pass. Pat gathered the pass at full speed and roared down the right wing, cut to the net and then roofed a backhander to up the Cyclones lead to 2-0. Great team work Men!!! The Cyclones continued to pester the Guelph zone for another goal but were unsuccessful. Meanwhile an unforced error by the Cyclones defenders created a turn over inside the Cyclones zone which gave Guelph’s Dylan Wood far too much time and space to get set and pick a spot to rip the puck form short range past Anthony Peters at 19:27. After a slow start which included 3 consecutive minor penalty calls made against them over the opening 13 minutes, Guelph picked up their game, notching the late goal and tying the visitors in the shots on goal category with 11 after 20 minutes.

 In the second period play started to get more chippy as Guelph continued to pester the Cyclones and tried to get under the skin of the Red, White and Black with some pesky, yappy and aggressive behavior. The Cyclones would not have much to do with that and went about increasing their lead at the 12:48 mark. After completing a successful penalty kill, forward David Dalby carried the puck along the right wing side through the neutral zone and into the Guelph zone, then he cut to the inside with a toe drag move and then launched a hard wrist shot that bounced off of bodies in front, looped in the air, skipped off the mitt of Mike Mitchell and then landed in the back of the net. What a crazy shot and what a crazy goal!!! The Cyclonic momentum of that goal quickly faded as the Cyclones were almost immediately tagged for 2 minor penalties. During the ensuing 5 on 3 power - play, Guelph would draw back to within one after Brandon Stewart knocked in a loose puck at the edge of the crease after the initial shot was stopped and a loose puck scrum developed after that. The Cyclones looked like they would be able to protect their 1 goal lead for the rest of the 2nd period, but a sketchy boarding call put the Guelph power play unit back on the ice at 18:36. In less than a minute the game was tied up at 3’s when Griffin Lacey slipped a shot through the legs of Anthony Peters at 19:14. To rub a little more slat into the wound, a slashing call was made as that goal was cored, so Guelph finished out the 2^nd period on the power play and had another 74 seconds of PP time waiting for them to start the 3^rd period. 6 minor penalties in a row squashed the Cyclones momentum in the 2^nd period and it allowed the Cyclones to be outshot by a 12 – 4 margin during that time frame.

 To start the 3^rd period the Cyclones successfully fended off the 74 seconds of Guelph power play time and then Anthony Peters continued his work of shutting down the devious shots unleashed at his direction by the crafty Guelph snipers. A Guelph penalty call at 4:51 and the corresponding Cyclones power play generated some promise but no real ability to provide a finishing touch for a go ahead goal. Similarly, the Hurricanes countered with some even strength offensive pressure of their own but could not manage a go ahead goal either. The flow of the game took another curious twist at 10:10 when Luke Turcotte took a 2 minute check from behind penalty. Down to 4 d-men the Cyclones PK battled hard and successfully resisted the man advantage. Then at 13:19 d-man Jordan Leyser was sent to the penalty box and again the Cyclones PK nullified that man advantage. Mac Nichol was then flagged down for what amounted to a dubious looking roughing call at 16:30. Once again, the Cyclones PK was up to the task of cancelling that out; so much so that a Brett Catto breakaway almost produced a game winning goal (or a penalty shot); but it did produce a big pile up in the crease that slid into the end boards, resulting in a Guelph penalty to even the odds. In the final 2 minutes of the 3^rd period the Cyclones almost cashed in on the power play but came within one clear shot on goal of doing so. The Cyclones were outshot by a 14 to 8 margin in the 3^rd period and at one point it was 12- 3 before finishing the period with a flourish on the aforementioned late power play chance.

 So bring on the Overtime and what a Cyclonic OT session it was. The Cyclones dominated the extra time with 16 shots to Guelph’s 3 and after a face off to the right of Mike Mitchell; Captain Bobby Cook was able to work the puck free to Tyler Evoy for a shot. Mitchell stopped that shot but in the goal crease scrum that followed the puck squirted loose and it lay at the feet of Tanner Simpson on the open side. Big Number 22 stood his ground and swept it home for the game winner at the 13:51 mark of OT as his Cyclones mates roared with approval from the bench and as the Cyclones faithful did likewise from the stands.

 Wow…what a Cyclonically dramatic finish!!!!!

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 4 Points - Anthony Peters: Number 33 was most certainly on his game tonight as he turned aside 37 of the 40 opposition shots; giving his team a chance to hang around long enough to score the OT winner.

A winning effort starts outwards from your own net and once again the rock steady Blyth native showed his playoff mettle by leading his team and doing his job in fine style. Well Done Anthony.

 3 Points – Mac Nichol: Number 8 had 1 Assist and he logged a huge amount of ice time on the blue line for the Cyclones. With 2 other Cyclones d-men out of the line up due to injury, Mac stepped it up and led the blue liners by example with his hard work, sheer determination and effort.

 2 Points Each: Bobby y Cook, Ryan Horvat, Pat Bell, Tyler Evoy, David Dalby and Tanner Simpson – All of these young men had a solid game, contributing to the Cyclones offence but also contributing with good defence, good PK work and excellent overall game efforts by doing little things like winning face offs, winning loose puck battles, clearing the zone etc.

 1 Point Each: The rest of the Cyclones game roster earns a single point for their overall game efforts and for stepping up their level of play at the various stages of the game when it appeared that Guelph might break through and snag the victory. There were a few hiccups along the way to the victory but is felt that the effort was there and that the Cyclones remained stubborn and continued to play hard until the final outcome was decided. Good Job Men!!!

 Game #2 will be played Saturday night at the Sleeman Centre starting at 7:30 p.m.

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness continues to reign supreme as an extended Cyclonic Storm warning remains in effect for all of Perth County and now for all of Wellington County!!!!!

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Bleed Red, White, and Black-Cycs Take Series

Phenomenal: Adjective – So surprising or extraordinary as to arrest the attention; astounding.

Add:  Game #6 of this 2011 Quarter Final Play Off Series. 

After Game #7Add: Winning Three Straight and capturing the Quarter Finals on the road at Allman Arena before 1,470 revved up and emotionally charged up spectators.

 To quote a rockin’ George Thorogood song….â€Â�You should have heard just what I seenâ€Â�

 On Monday, March 14^th Game #7 of this blockbuster epic playoff battle between the Cyclones and the Cullitons played out its final scenes on Morenz Drive, just down river of the celebrated Shakespearean Festival Theatre. This masterpiece was chocked full of high drama as the protagonists and antagonists of both squads played their parts to the fullest extent on the William Allman Arena ice surface. After six hard fought, intense and sometimes bitterly contested games in this series, both teams showed that they had lots of gusto and flair left for the Quarter Finals Series finale.

 To start the game both teams pushed each other to and fro as they looked to get the 1^st goal and to get an early leg up on their opposition. Except for Game #3 of this series, the team that scored 1^st, won the game, and the outcome of this game held true to that statistic. Grand Valley native Pat Bell got the Cyclones churning at 11:46 of the 1^st period with an unassisted goal, after opposition goaltender Evan Groenestege unsuccessfully attempted a poke check in the hash mark area of the zone. The big forward managed to capture the puck and keep himself untangled from the sprawling goaltender, before he swept the disk into the yawning cage. The Cyclones missed two fantastic chances to up their lead as a back hand shot by Captain Bobby Cook had beaten the goaltender but wrang off the cross bar; and another shot by Brandon Passley had the goaltender leaning the other way but clanked off the post and out to safety. Sensing a turn of fortunes, the opposition returned fire with some persistent attacks on the Cyclones zone. In response, Blyth native Anthony Peters repelled all shooters; that is until an opposition power play goal by Mc Crank knotted the match at the 18:02 mark. The host team held a 16 to 14 shots on goal edge after 20 minutes and were buoyed by the equalizer as they headed into their dressing room.

 56 seconds into the second period, the host team were assessed a roughing penalty and if not for the razor sharp reflexes of Anthony Peters, the host team could very well have bagged a deflating short - handed goal. Instead, the Cyclones regained control and resumed their power play as Luke Turcotte fed Brett Catto with a lead pass through the neutral zone. The Kincardine native gathered the pass, gained speed through the neutral zone, crossed the blue line on the right wing side and in a silky - smooth motion, he used the defender as a partial screen before unleashing a swift, hard and low wrist shot to the far side.

S-W-E-E-T. For the rest of the period, both teams continued to battle to and fro as each team attacked and counter attacked. The Cyclones held a 14 – 13 shots on goal advantage in the second period and after 40 minutes the visiting squad was clinging closely to a precarious but albeit important one goal lead.

 The stage was set for the third period and what a thriller it was. The home side came out in full force as they relentlessly attacked the Cyclones net from all sides. Anthony Peters stood firm and clad in his blue pads, trapper and blocker; he defended the blue paint like a fortress. Undaunted the home side continued to press forwards and very nearly tied the game before the Cyclones Tyler Evoy scored his biggest goal of the season (so far) at 7:06. Starting the play with a splendid fore-check in the right wing corner of the offensive zone, Evoy forced the opposing defender to turn the puck over to Captain Bobby Cook at the right wing blue line. The Captain then fed the puck forward to Tyler who quickly squared up to the net and snapped a shot that deflected off the defender’s stick and into the top corner. Oh Baby!!!! Desperate for a response the home side continued to pour it on with a relentless attack but Anthony Peters and his Red, White and Black mates (and one goal post) continued to repel the invaders at each and every turn. A fevered and pitched battle raged inside the Cyclones zone as time was slowly and painfully eroding and running short for the home side. With the goal tender pulled out in favor of an extra attacker, Ryan Horvat was able to grab a loose puck on his side of centre ice and snap it home for a 4-1 lead at 19:02. Boo – yah!!!! Demoralized and completely shattered in utter disbelief, the home side vented their frustrations out on the Cyclones with consecutive penalties, before Lambeth native Jeff Bauer sealed the glorious Cyclones 3 game comeback with a power play goal at 19:51: as he snapped a high shot over the glove of Evan Groenestege.

 At the final buzzer the Cyclones poured off the bench to mob winning goaltender Anthony Peters before turning to centre ice and lining up to shake hands with the Cullitons who once again proved to be a fierce and powerful playoff adversary. For the Cullitons it was a case of déjà vu all over again as the Cyclones eliminated them in the opening playoff round for the 2^nd time in the last 3 seasons. Then, as a salute to the Cyclones faithful who cheered their team on to victory from sections “Lâ€Â� & “Mâ€Â�, the team gathered at centre ice and raised their sticks in salute. Bless You Boys for a terrific and unrelenting effort.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 5 Points - Anthony Peters: Number 33 turned aside all but one of 47 opposition shots and silenced both the Cullitons and the raucous Allman Arena crowd with yet another fantastic performance in the blue paint for the Cyclones. A winning effort starts outwards from your own net and the Blyth native showed his playoff mettle by leading his team and doing his job in fine style. Well Done Anthony.

 4 Points - Brett Catto: Number 17 saved some of his best for the last by notching his first goal; for what proved to be the eventual game and series winner. The Kincardine native was constantly in the opposition crosshairs, but you cannot keep a talented player down forever over the course of a seven game series. Regardless of whether you love him or not, when the game is on the line, Brett delivers the goods.

 3 Points - Tyler Evoy: Number 11 also brought some of his best when his team needed it most in the final two games of the series. The Sault Ste. Marie native had another strong playoff game at both ends of the ice and he gave the Cyclones a much needed insurance goal early in the third period. In so doing, Tyler gave the Cyclones a much needed leg up and a massive boost of energy and morale to the Cyclones bench. Splendid work Tyler.

 2 Points - The rest of the Cyclones game roster put forth another gutsy, stellar, splendid and unselfish effort. The Red, White and Black were full value for the win as all 20 players did their part, doing enough of what was needed to win this game and to win this series. Regardless of what the Cullitons put before them and regardless of the difficulties that they faced, the Cyclones continued to compete, continued to work hard and most importantly, they continued to believe in themselves and their team mates. Bravo Men!

 1 Point - The Cyclones coaching staff led by Dave “Birthday Boyâ€Â� Williams and his trusted assistants Jeff Bloemberg, Matt Desmeules and Steve Leith receive some duly deserved recognition and congratulations for a job well done; not only for their work in this series but for their tireless work all season long in getting this team in shape and prepared for the 2011 playoffs. Excellent work men!!!

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness continues to reign supreme as an extended Cyclonic Storm warning remains in effect for all of Perth County!!!!!

 Next Stop…Guelph. Oh How Sweet It Is!!!

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Cyclones Win 6-5 OT Thriller To Tie Series

Phenomenal: Adjective – So surprising or extraordinary as to arrest the attention; astounding.

Now, we can add to this definition - Game #6 of this 2011 Quarter Final Play Off Series. 

 On Sunday, March 13^th Game #6 of this blockbuster epic playoff battle between the Cyclones and the Cullitons was orchestrated upon Memorial arena ice. All game long both teams pushed back and forth like two heavyweight gladiators, as neither team was willing to concede anything to their opponent. After 67 minutes and one second of play, a thundering and cannonading shot from Caleb Cameron sent the home crowd into a phrenetic frenzy and it sent the Cyclone bench into a state of utter euphoria as the Red, White & Black poured onto the ice to celebrate their 3^rd win of the series. It was a stunning and sensational conclusion to the hardest fought game of the series thus far. What these two teams will be able to do for an encore in Game #7 is beyond anybody’s wildest imagination right now because as of this moment this series is officially off the charts and through the roof as far as dramatics and excitement goes.

 The wild and crazy ride started with two very quick goals on what seemed to be the first two shots on net by the Cyclones. Brett Catto and Ryan Horvat set up Captain Bobby Cook for his 7^th power play goal of the series at 1:37. Then at 2:38, Mac Nichol’s right point shot drifted through a crowd and into the net – assists were drawn by Tyler Evoy and Bobby Cook. Then it was the opposition’s turn to push back, and push back they did with 2 even strength goals in the span of 2 minutes and 21 seconds - Reynolds from Dol and Barton at 10:02 followed by Dol from Reynolds and Currie at 12:23. The Cyclones Tyler Evoy replied with the go ahead goal at 14:13 after some industrious work by Tanner Simpson and Sam Paterson after the Cyclones won the face off deep inside the Cullitons zone. The Cullitons pushed back again at 16:34 when McClure gathered a right wing corner pass from Huether and blazed a wrist shot from atop the hash marks. The 6 goals scored on 29 shots in the opening 20 minutes of this game were in stark contrast to the 3 goals scored in all of the 60 minutes played in Game #5. The opposition outshot the home side by a 17 to 12 margin in the opening 20  minutes.

 In the second period the Cyclones came out flying to start with two more goals in a span of just under 2 minutes. First, Mac Nichol and Blake Thompson sprung Caleb Cameron loose on the left wing as the Sundridge native roared down the wing, cut hard and fast to the net, gathering speed as he swooped on the goal and roofed a perfect shot over the right shoulder of Groenestege at 2:19. Then, Blake Thompson and Brett Catto teamed up to get the puck inside the zone and towards the net where Bobby Cook knocked the point shot down out of mid air, gained control and then let fly with a wicked wrist shot over the blocker. The Cyclones tried to protect their 2 goal lead but with 23 seconds left, the opposition’s Ryan set up Dol for a PP marker to cut the lead to one after 40 minutes. Once again, the opposition outshot the home team by a 20 to 15 margin in the second period.

 In the 3^rd period, the opposition fore check produced the tying goal at 3:58 when Barton and Dol worked the puck to Reynolds. For the balance of the period both teams thrust and parried with different chances but could not produce any further scoring. As the clock ticked down the pace of play tightened as both teams were not willing to give up an odd man rush or dare to be caught out of position. Once again, the opposition held an edge in shots on goal, mounting a 13 to 9 edge. With the score knotted at 5, overtime was next.

 In the overtime, the Cyclones came out charged up and ready to go, outshooting their opponent by an 8 – 2 margin. Brandon Passley had the 1^st good chance from close range, followed by Ryan Horvat’s chances at the right wing side of the net. The opposition mounted a brief counter attack before the puck squirted loose into neutral ice. Caleb Cameron picked up the loose disk at full flight, roared across the blue line to unleash an absolute howitzer of a shot that hit the cross bar on the blocker side before dropping down onto the ice, spinning, hopping and skipping over the goal line by the narrowest of margins. Before anyone could react, the referee had signaled a goal and the place went nuts.

 Phenomenal.

 Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus, and yes, there will be a Game #7 on Monday night at 7:30 p.m. at the Allman Arena.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 4 Points - Caleb Cameron: Number 10 had 2 goals including the OT winner to earn Hero of the Night Honors. Timing is everything, be it in life or in sport, and the Sundridge native picked an appropriate time to step up his game and add some punch to the Cyclones attack.

 3 Points - Bobby Cook: Number 16 scored twice and assisted once to pace the Cyclones scoring attack. Once again the Cyclones Captain comes through in the clutch and produces a command performance to keep his team in series contention.

 2 Points - Anthony Peters: Number 33 turned aside 47 of 52 shots and withstood the withering fire launched by the opposition, including another smart pad save off of another Mc Crank face off shot.

The Blyth native continues to be a steadying and calming influence inside the blue paint for the Cyclones, keeping his team in the game no matter what the score is.

 1 Point - The rest of the Cyclones game roster put forth a stellar, splendid and unselfish effort. The Red, White and Black were full value for the win as all 20 players did their part and did it well. The coaching staff will be seeking all that plus a little more of the same in the Game #7finale of this epic playoff series.

 GOJHL 2011 March Playoff Madness reigns supreme. 

 The Cyclonic Storm warning remains in effect for all of Perth County!!!!!

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Cyclones Tighten Series With 3-0 Win

On Friday, March 11^th Game #5 of this epic playoff battle between the Cyclones and the Cullitons was played out upon the ice of William Allman Arena. As predicted, the Cyclonic storm of fury that was forecast by Environment Canada made land fall as the Red, White and Black emerged with a solid 3 – 0 victory.

 The Cyclones used their power play to stake an early lead at the 5:16 mark of the 1^st period, followed by 2 more power play goals in the third period at 9:44 and 19:37. Overall the Cyclones were 3 for 6 on the PP while fending off the opposition on all 6 of their PP chances.

 Captain Bobby Cook got the scoring started with a seeing –eye goal that was shot from the right side and made its way through the heavy crease traffic before finding the back of the net – assisted by Mac Nichol and Brett Catto.

 Ryan Horvat upped the lead to 2-0 with a shot from inside the hash marks after Blake Thompson and Brett Catto helped set up the scoring play just a scant 8 seconds after the penalty call was made.

 The hard working and dynamic duo of Brett McGuinness and David Dalby set up Steven Kerr for the final goal, an empty netter to seal the deal and send the series back to Listowel.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 4 Points - Anthony Peters: Number 33 was simply sensational with a spotless 33 save performance.

The Blyth native certainly did answer the bell for his team as he rose to the occasion and shone brightly to help backstop the Cyclones to victory.

 3 Points - Brett Catto: Number 17 registered 2 assists and was a persistent threat all night for the Cyclones, be it with the man advantage, shorthanded or at even strength. Brett gathers considerable extra attention from the opposition but despite this scenario, he always manages to get the job done.

 2 Points - Bobby Cook: Number 16 scored once and despite having a premature end to his night, the Cyclones Captain was the “straw that stirred the drinkâ€Â�. Bobby’s efforts helped to set the tone and the tempo for his team early on in the game, and then the Cyclones followed through by finishing off the opposition in his absence.

 1 Point - The rest of the Cyclones game roster put forth a stellar and splendid effort. The Red, White and Black were full value for the win as all 20 players did their part and did it well. The coaching staff will be seeking more of the same in Game #6.

 The outcome of this game shatters the notions that the Cyclones cannot win on the larger ice surface at Allman Arena (it is about 10 feet longer and 5 feet wider than the playing surface at the Memorial Arena).

 So with that out of the way, the Cyclones will now bear down for a Sunday night home game in Listowel as they look forward to another intense match up against their series rivals. The puck drop is at 8:30 p.m. Be prepared as this Midwest Division playoff series gets set to take another curious twist. Another Cyclonic Storm warning is in Effect!!!!!

 Before signing off, it would be remiss if a special mention was not made about the 45^th Annual Gord Hymers Novice Hockey Tournament. The tourney will be held over 2 days at Memorial Arena – on Saturday, March 12^th for the “Câ€Â� / “CCâ€Â� Division and on Sunday, March 13^th for the “Bâ€Â� / “BBâ€Â� Division. Every year Gord’s goal is to have a tournament where the kids can come to play hockey and have some fun. It is a message that sometimes can be easily lost within the trappings of a playoff series or within the grind of our day to day activities. So, we take off our hats and give a Cyclonic salute to Gord and to Listowel Minor Hockey for the ongoing support that they lend to this event. 

 Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Penalty Trouble Costly In 6-3 Loss to Cullitons

On Thursday, March 10^th Game #4 of this epic playoff battle between the Cyclones and Cullitons was hashed out on the Memorial Arena ice. The Red, White and Black battled hard and put forth a heroic effort but could not overcome the effects of some dodgy penalty calls (5 consecutive minor penalties to start the game) and 3 straight power play goals; as they fell 6 – 3 at the hands of the opposition. A brief rally in the second period saw the Red, White and Black score twice in the span of 65 seconds with goals from Mac Nichol and Pat Bell, but an even strength goal on a broken play staked the opposition to a 4-2 lead through 40 minutes of play. In the third period, there was no need for the opposition to repeat their Game #2 rough neck hijinx as they scored twice more in the final twenty minutes of play. Try as they might, the home side continued to battle and press hard for goals but Tanner Simpson was the only Cyclone that could manage to bulge the twine for the remainder of the game. The outcome of this game shatters the notions / ongoing myths about how Memorial Arena ice is too small for visiting teams (it is about 10 feet shorter and 5 feet narrower than at the Allman Arena) and that the refereeing at Memorial Arena is biased towards the home side. So with that out of the way, the Cyclones will now bear down for a Friday night game in Stratford as they look forward to another intense match up against their series rivals. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. and be prepared as Environment Canada forecasts a Cyclonic storm of fury in the Stratford area within the next 24 hours.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Mac Nichol: Number 8 once again logged a ton of ice time on the Cyclones blue line and played with the heart of a lion. The Listowel native led by example with 1G and 2A and will be counted on heavily to repeat this Herculean effort in Game #5.

 2 Points - Tyler Evoy: Number 11 assisted on each of the first two Cyclones goals to help spark a second period comeback. Look for more of the same effort in Game #5 from the big Sault Ste. Marie forward.

 1Point- Anthony Peters: Number 33 made 35 saves on 40 shots including some highlight reel stops from point blank range in the second period. The Blyth native will be called upon to answer the bell in Game # 5 and there is no doubt that he will be ready to respond to the challenge.

 Next Stop - Game #5 at William Allman Arena where a Cyclonic Storm warning is in Effect!!!!!

 Bleed Red, White & Black!

 Go Cycs’ Go!!!!!

Cullitons Win 5-4 in OT

On Monday, March 7^th Game #3 of this epic playoff battle between the Cyclones and Cullitons was played out on the William Allman Arena ice. The Red, White and Black battled hard and put forth a heroic effort for 66 minutes and 15 seconds but fell short in a 5-4 overtime cliff hanger. The intensity of this series builds with every passing minute of every game played and this game did not disappoint in the drama department. Both teams battled back and forth all night for every square inch of ice and neither team was in any sort of mood to give in to the other side. After a very hard fought and chippy Game #2 held the day before, both teams found plenty of spark left in them for another heavy duty head to head tilt.

 The Cyclones staked themselves out to a 2-0 first period lead on the strength of a power play goal and an unassisted marker. Hard working stay at home defenceman Sam Paterson drew a hooking penalty which set the stage for a Cyclones man advantage. Captain Bobby Cook scored his 4^th of the series when he unleashed a left point shot that blazed through a maze of bodies and angled in off the far post. Brett Catto and Brandon Passley assisted with the set up on that play. Then at 17:01 Ryan Horvat snapped home a sharp angled shot through an unsuspecting Evan Groenestege, after gathering in a glaring give away at the right wing side of Cullitons net. Shortly after that things turned ugly again as Cullitons defenceman Liam Maaskant leveled Brett Catto with a ferocious high stick to the head and upper body area. The blow landed the Kincardine native onto the ice and it sent the offending player to the showers early as he drew a 5 minute major penalty and a game misconduct. On the ensuing power play, the Cyclones started towards a 3 goal lead but were cut short by a cross checking call at 19:05. In the first period the Cyclones held a15 to 9 shots on goal advantage.

 The second period of play started with 1:06 of 4 on 4 play and in that time the dynamic forward duo of David Dalby and Brett Mc Guinness teamed up for a 2 on 1 dash, with Dalby’s back hand deke stopped by the pads of Groenestege. The Cyclones resumed with the remainder of the power play created by the cross checking major penalty but could not generate anything further with the man advantage. The Cyclones continued to apply pressure and crash the net but the home side refused to yield the next goal. At 5:33 the home side got themselves into the game with their 1^st goal, after a turnover at the Stratford line was scooped up by Huether and a cross ice was made in the neutral zone onto the waiting stick of Brad Mc Clure. The fleet footed forward blew past everyone, burst into the zone along the right wing side and shoveled the puck high over Anthony Peters. The goal electrified the building but with 13:52 left most of the lights to the ice surface went dark About 20 minutes later the lights were restored and the game resumed. Not long after the unscheduled break, the Cullitons drew even with another even strength goal. Mc Clure repeated his previous move, but this time he kept the puck, circled behind the net, emerged from the left wing side, and snapped a pass to a wide open Ray Huether who quickly unloaded the tying goal at 7:27. Undaunted, The Cyclones continued to push and continued to work hard creating scoring plays. Pat Bell had a glimpse of an opportunity to sweep the puck into an open net but before he could touch the puck, he was cross checked to the ice. This was the 1^st of 4 consecutive penalties taken by the home team for the balance of the second period and the Cyclones would come close but they would not succeed in scoring to regain the momentum of the game. Anthony Peters did what he could to keep his Cyclones ‘mates in the game with a sharp right pad save off a Mc Crank shot. The Cyclones held a 19 – 8 shots on goal advantage but the score was tied a t 2 after 2 periods of play.

 The Cyclones started the 3^rd period with 91 seconds of power play time left but could not convert; and Anthony Peters was in the spotlight again making a big save on a shorthanded break, with Mac Nichol bearing down in hot pursuit. Shortly after that, on the next sequence of plays, Peters made another big toe save with the right leg after a sniper was left unmarked inside the hash marks. Tempers flared up again when Stratford’s John Doyle took it upon himself to try and take a run at Anthony Peters, while the Cyclones ‘tender left his crease to play the puck. The Cyclones Blake Thompson took exception to this unruly act, proceeded to grab hold of the aforementioned Doyle and tuned him in with some Cyclonic enlightenment. The Cullitons went away laughing 11 seconds later as they scored on the power play that resulted from the scrum. The Cyclones Pat Bell coolly responded by tying the match at 3’s with his first of the series at 8:47. Captain Bobby Cook and Tyler Evoy started the play by working the puck through the neutral zone and up to the Stratford line on the right wing side. Pat Bell showed the Cullitons d-man an outside and then inside move before snapping a bullet that handcuffed Groenestege over the glove on the short side. This goal got the Cyclones bench pumped up in a big time way but that excitement was short lived when 2 more successive Cyclones penalties put them behind after the home side scored their 2^nd PP goal of the game with a 5 on 3 man advantage at 11:31.As the period wore on the home side tried unsuccessfully to keep a lid on the Cyclones, who eventually opened up the play in a concerted effort to tie the game. Both teams traded chances including a shot by Brandon Passley that rattled off the post during a 3 on 2 attack with about 4 ½ minutes left to play. The Cyclones continued to battle and continued to apply pressure and at 16:53 the home side was called with a holding the stick penalty, much to the chagrin of the home crowd. In a pitched battle both teams fought for control of the puck but with 1:25 left to play the Cyclones tied the game at 4’s. On what looked like a seemingly broken sequence, Ryan Horvat grabbed the loose puck and steered it to the right point, where Captain Bobby Cook momentarily lost and then regained the control of the puck. The Captain then unloaded a bullet drive which found its way past everyone in front and then glanced off the near post before hitting the mesh.

 In overtime, the Cyclones avoided danger by successfully killing a penalty before attacking the net with 2 fantastic chances by Brett McGuinness on 2 separate plays at the edge of the blue paint. Shortly after the latter chance, the puck went the other way and on the ensuing rush, Mc Clure clinched the game winner for the home side at 6:15.

 The series now shifts back to Listowel for Game #4 on Thursday night at 7:30 p.m. After 3 intense and hard fought games, the series is just getting started, and the Cyclones are far from finished. Expect another Cyclonic effort on home ice from the Red, White and Black.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Captain Bobby Cook: Number 16 scored twice, assisted once and played with supreme heart, courage all game long. The Cyclones Captain is getting the job done in this series for his team and he will be ready to go again in Game #4.

 2 Points - Mac Nichol: Number 8 logged a ton of ice time on the Cyclones blue line and played with the heart of a lion. The Listowel native led by example and will be counted on heavily to repeat this Herculean effort in Game #4.

 1 Point - Ryan Horvat: Number 14 scored once and assisted once while logging a massive amount of ice time for the Cyclones in key situations throughout the game. The Simcoe native is making his mark as he provides an invaluable contribution to the Cyclones playoff performance in 2011.

 Next Stop - Game #4 at Memorial Arena in Listowel as the epic story between these two storied junior hockey team rivals will launch itself into another chapter.

 The Cyclones continue their quest to Unleash The Storm! Are You Ready?

 Bleed Red, White & Black!

 Go Cycs’ Go!!

Cyclones Respond with Decisive 6-1 Victory

Sunday, March 6^th the Cyclones and the Cullitons squared off in Game #2 of their 2011 Quarter Final Playoff Series. After a 5-2 Friday night defeat in Stratford, the Cyclones delivered a sound 6 – 1 thrashing of the Cullitons at Memorial Arena. The Cyclones used their power play forces to hit the mesh 4 times on Stratford goaltender Evan Groenestege while using their PK units to shut out the Cullitons on all 7 of their power play chances. Captain Bobby Cook led all scorers with 2 goals while Anthony Peters was solid in the blue paint for the Cyclones as he turned aside 35 of 36 shots. The Cyclones opened up a 4-0 lead early in the 3^rd period and with the game out of reach the Cullitons resorted to some dubious and unsportsmanlike behavior. The Cullitons may have been trying to send a message for Monday night’s Game #3 back in Stratford but the Cyclones were not intimidated. In fact, the Red, White and Black were more than happy to respond to the uncharacteristic and undisciplined play of their opponent by pumping 2 more goals behind Groenestege before the game was over.

 The first period was fast paced, hard grinding and chippy, with a total of 9 minor penalties handed out during the first 20 minutes of play. Captain Bobby Cook scored the first goal of the game at 11:29, with a tic-tac-toe power play passing effort that was set up by Joel Bowman and Tyler Evoy. The Cyclones continued to press with strong fore-checking pressure. After forcing a face off inside the Cullitons zone, David Dalby won the draw, pulling the puck back to the right point. From there Joel Bowman swooped deep into the zone along the right wing boards, cut to the net from behind the goal line and shot the puck at the right wing post. The puck lay there just long enough for the Atwood native to make a 2^nd effort to lunge forward and jam the puck between the left skate of Evan Groenestege and the post with just enough momentum to cross the goal line.

 The pace of the second period continued much the same as the opening 20 minutes. The Cyclones capitalized with their 2^nd power play goal of the game at 2:31. Brett Catto started the play with a powerful left wing rush to gain the zone. With the Cullitons “dâ€Â� on the back pedal, Number 17 burst around the corner with speed, and launched a shot on goal, Brandon Passley jammed at the rebound and from the right wing side Ryan Horvat snapped home the loose puck. The Cyclones took 3 penalties in a row during the middle portion of the period but both Anthony Peters and the Cyclones PK withstood the test and resisted all Cullitons scoring chances. Notable back checking plays by Joel Bowman, Caleb Cameron and Steven Kerr demonstrated the drive and the determination that was exhibited by the Cyclones in their quest to win the game and tie this series.

 Early in the third period, the Cyclones upped their lead at 5:56 with an even strength goal. The hard working trio of Jeff Bauer, Caleb Cameron and Tanner Simpson hit the score sheet when they worked the fore check to create a turn over. Caleb and Tanner worked the puck to Jeff in the hash marks, and the Lambeth native unleashed a hard, low wrist shot through a screen of players. From this point on the game took on a nasty face, as several Cullitons players were sent to the penalty box and some were sent to the dressing room, for a multitude of infractions, including two checking to the head penalties. Unfazed by this rabid turn of events, the Cyclones continued to play their game. Despite a Cullitons goal at 16:17, the home side scored 2 more power play goals. Captain Bobby Cook scored his 2^nd of the game at 18:03, assisted by Blake Thompson and Tyler Evoy, on another tic-tac-toe passing play. Blake Thompson scored the coup de grace goal at 19:20 with a nice wrist shot into the top corner. Jeff Bauer and Brandon Passley assisted on the play.

 The final shots on goal totals favored the Cyclones by a 41 to 36 margin.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 4 Points - Anthony Peters: Number 33 played a solid game inside the blue paint for the Cyclones, turning aside 35 of 36 shots and making several timely saves at important junctures throughout points of the hockey game.

 3 Points - Joel Bowman: Number 6 scored 1G and 1A and played with superior effort and intensity at both ends of the ice during the entire match. This fact was not lost on the opposition as Joel attracted some desperate and undisciplined attention from the opposition in the final minutes. This underscores how much the opposition wants to desperately neutralize Joel’s contributions to the Cyclones game.

2 Points - Tanner Simpson: Number 22 had 1 A in this game and brought his Grade 1 Super Sized Coarse Sand Paper. The big forward from Lucknow battled hard in the corners, along the boards and in front of the net all game long; unselfishly doing the little things necessary to help the Cyclones win the game.

 1 Point - The rest of the entire Cyclones game roster gave it their all as they collectively raised their overall energy and effort to do the little things needed to win the game and tie this series at one game apiece. Excellent Team Work Men!!!

 Next Stop- Game #3 at William Allman Memorial Arena on Monday, March 7^th at 7:30 p.m. Within 24 hours of staging a grueling Game #2 battle, which team will have enough moxy and stamina left to win game #3? The Epic story between these two storied junior hockey team rivals continues.

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

Cullitons Take Game 1 By 5-2 Score

Friday, March 4^th the Cyclones and Cullitons squared off in Game #1 of their 2011 Quarter Final Playoff Series. The home side Cullitons scored first and then spotted the Cyclones a 2-1 lead in the first period before scoring 4 unanswered goals for a 5 – 2 win at the William Allman Memorial Arena. Special teams play and a better overall execution of the game plan by the Cullitons were the keys to their Game #1. The Cullitons were able to take advantage of 2 first period power play goals and a shorthanded marker late in the 3^rd period to provide a comfortable margin of victory.

 The start of the game was not a good one for the Red, White and Black as they lost Brett Catto 16 seconds from the opening faceoff due to a checking from behind penalty call. The Kincardine native went into the right wing corner with too much gusto and made a mistake with his check on the Cullitons defender. The loss of the shifty and talented playmaking forward was a grim foreshadowing of things to come on the night for the visitors. On the ensuing power play, after making a right point shot on the net, the Cullitons converted a rebound off the right pad of Anthony Peters at 1:28. After killing off another penalty, the Cyclones were able to settle down and get into a groove. At the 10:00 minute mark David Dalby scored to draw the Cyclones even at 1’s. Tanner Simpson started the play with a simple dump and chase. The big winger retrieved the loose puck at the end boards, made the short pass to Brett McGuinness in the right wing corner, and  fed a perfect tape – to – tape to the streaking Dalby who had charged to the front of the net untouched to direct the puck into the roof of the net before Evan Groenestege could react.

 The Cyclones took the initiative with a power play goal at 14:06 to create a 2-1 lead for themselves. Mac Nichol and Joel Bowman relayed the puck over to the left wing half boards, where Captain Bobby Cook gathered the relay, turned and wired a laser beam shot through traffic and a frozen Evan Groenestege…a beauty goal and a big lift to the visiting side. With the Cyclones buzzing and pressing to build a 2 goal lead, Groenestege reversed some of that momentum when he reached across his crease to snare a Pat Bell backhand that was destined for the far side of the net. Wow…a high light save indeed. Late in the period the Cyclones misplayed the puck deep in the Stratford zone, leading to a Cullitons rush and a Cyclones double minor penalty. On the first penalty, the Cullitons led a 3 on 2 rush and with traffic in front the right wing shot was redirected for the tying goal.

 In the second period the Cyclones were out shot by a 21 -11 margin and had 4 minor penalties to contend with (including one 5 on 3 PK situation), thus preventing them from mounting a consistent and sustained scoring attack. The Cyclones came close to scoring when a shoot in took a weird bounce off of the half boards and almost crossed into the net after Groenestege had vacated his crease to play the puck. Groenestege partially recovered himself as the puck missed the near post and slid harmlessly towards the boards behind the Stratford net. Late in the second period, 2 Cullitons goals scored 52 seconds apart creating a huge lead for the home side heading into the third period – the first on a left wing rush, and the second on a right wing odd man rush that started after a neutral zone turnover.

 A Cyclones power play opportunity early in the third period gave the visitors a chance to get back into the game, but a high light reel shorthanded goal by the Cullitons salted away the victory for the home side. From that point on the Cullitons played a simple game of shut down defence and did not give the Cyclones much in the way of any further scoring chances.

 The final shots on goal totals favored the Cullitons by a 36 to 29 margin.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Captain Bobby Cook: Number 16 had 1G and played well in all situations in an effort to help the Cyclones compete and battle throughout the night. His continued efforts in this regard will be crucial to the team’s playoff success.

 2 Points Each - Brett McGuinness and David Dalby: Number 12 and Number 9 both had another solid outing and despite a late first period misplay, the duo played extremely well in their 1^st Junior B playoff match. David had 1G and Brett had 1A as they combined their efforts with line mate Tanner Simpson to score the first Cyclones goal of the game and the series.

 1 Point - Tanner Simpson: Number 22 had 1 A in this game and  when he is matched up with Dalby & Mc Guinness, he can provides the sandpaper and muscle that helps make this trio an effective line combination for the Red, White and Black.

 Next Stop…Game #2 at Memorial Arena on Sunday, March 6^th at 1:30 p.m.

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

Dean's March Madness Review

Cyclones fans…..It is Time!!!! The 2011Playoffs (aka March Madness) has arrived!!!!

 It is time to throw out the worn and beaten up clichés, throw out the regular season standings and toss out the regular season scores and stats. Regular season winning streaks and losing streaks are all but a distant memory. Who played terrible in October and who played like wild fire in November are no longer relevant. All that really matters, is what will happen between now and when the Sutherland Cup is hoisted by the 2011 Champions.

 In the Midwest Division of the GOJHL, all of the 8 teams that have qualified for the playoff tournament will start with a fresh stats sheet and a fresh sheet of ice. It is time to play the game for keeps!!!

 Cyclones fans, it is time to fill the stands, get loud and rock the house with “GO CYCS GO!!!â€Â�

 After hovering around the .500 level for the first half of the season the Listowel Cyclones mounted a strong finish to their 2010 – 2011 GOJHL regular season campaign posting a final record of 31 wins 16 losses and 4 overtime losses. Starting this season with only 4 returning players from last year – defenceman Joel Bowman, and forwards Pat Bell, Tanner Simpson and Bobby Cook – the Cyclones hockey management team faced a daunting task to rebuild and retool the Cyclones line up into a contender for this season. The early season improvement and growth of the new roster players was aided by the early October return of Brett Catto, Mac Nichol and Ryan Horvat. By late fall; the Cyclones slowly started to take shape and forge their own identity before Christmas. The addition of Gatlin Burt followed by the addition of Luke Turcotte, Anthony Peters and Brandon Passley at the trade deadline further bolstered the depth and skill level of the Cyclones. The Cyclones hockey brain trust, led by Mike Brooks and Wayne Long has done a fantastic job at rebuilding this team. The coaching staff has done an equally fantastic job at managing the growth and molding the shape of this team over the course of the season. 

 Head Coach Dave Williams along with assistants Matt Desmeules, Jeff Bloemberg and Steve Leith have the Red, White & Black ready to compete hard and ready to battle all challengers to the last man. It may be an exaggeration to say that anyone on the roster will skate through a wall if told to do so, but it is not a stretch to say that the Cyclones are prepared to work hard and are ready to compete and do what it takes to win. During playoffs, everything is magnified – every shot, every save, every hit, every shot block and most certainly every goal – all of it is put under the microscopic eye. Now that March Madness has arrived, the margin for success will become even more razor thin as the stakes are raised with every passing minute of play.

 12 wins are needed to hoist the Cherry Cup and at least 6 if not 7 more are needed before the Sutherland Cup can be hoisted in a celebration of victory. Each win will be tougher to achieve than the last and the Cyclones are looking forward to their chance at winning the Ontario Championship.

 GOALTENDERS

Gatlin Burt – The Owen Sound native joined the team in a November trade with the Kincardine Bulldogs. Gatlin’s acrobatic ability coupled with quick reflexes makes him part of the dynamic goaltending duo inside the blue paint for the Cyclones.

 Anthony Peters – The Blyth native joined the team at the January trade deadline and has been a stalwart in goal since his arrival to the Cyclones. Anthony brings stability, maturity and confidence to the Cyclones defensive zone coverage.

 BLUELINERS

 Joel Bowman and Mac Nichol anchor the Cyclones defensive corps. Both the Atwood native and the Listowel native provide an effective 1-2 punch on the back end and have been both tireless and fearless warriors all season. Listowel natives Blake Thompson and Steve Kerr have both grown into their spots admirably during their first full season with the Cyclones and they are versatile 2 way defenders.  Sam Paterson is from London and along with Stratford native Jordan Leyser they are the consummate stay at home defenceman types, the unsung heroes who battle in the corners and in front of the net, taking a hit and dishing them out in return. They are always ready to bounce around the opposing forwards but they can also contribute to the Cyclones offence scheme when called upon. Rounding out the Cyclones blue line corps in a big way is Luke Turcotte. The burly Mississauga native has size, speed and skills to keep the opposition forwards under control and to also feed into the Cyclones offensive attack when called upon.

 FORWARDS

Led by Captain Bobby Cook the team’s forwards comprise of 4 lines of Cyclonic competitive fury, intensity and hard work. Joining Bobby are the veterans: Brett Catto, Ryan Horvat, Pat Bell, Tanner Simpson, Tyler Evoy and Brandon Passley. Newcomers on the forward lines are Caleb Cameron, David Dalby, Brett McGuinness, Jeff Bauer, Ty Bilcke and Spencer Turcotte.

  All of the forwards bring their own brand of offensive dash and crash along with hockey smarts, hustle and defensive grit. As a whole this forward group can put forth an ultimate mix of speed, finesse, power, and sheer determination. Regardless of size, age and time on the ice, each of the forwards adds something special and significant to the Cyclones winning formula. Every one of them has the ability to make a big play in a clutch situation.

 Next Stop………………………………………..March Madness. All Aboard !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

Cyclones Finish Regular Season With 9-2 Win

Sunday, February 27^th the Cyclones wrapped up the 2010 – 2011 Regular Season on the road with a 9 – 2 thumping of the Waterloo Siskins. The win was the 31^st of the season for the team and it sets a new Cyclones franchise record. The Cyclones dominated play out shooting their hosts by a 42 to 28 count, going 1 for 2 on the PP and 6 for 8 on the PK and scoring once shorthanded. With playoffs starting in less than one week’s time of this game, Waterloo seemed none too interested in resisting the Cyclones offensive attack; thus allowing the Red, White & Black time and space to pick apart the Waterloo defence.

 Some beauty goals were scored by Passley (2), Cameron (1), McGuinness (1), Cook (2), Catto (1) and Bell (1). The most impressive goal was from David Dalby’s right wing rush that started from the face off circle inside the Cyclones zone and ended when Number 9 simply tore through the Waterloo zone and snapped a backhander  top shelf. Wow!!!!!

 Multiple assists were earned by Jordan Leyser (3), Mac Nichol (2), Caleb Cameron (2), Tanner Simpson (2) and single assists were earned by Tyler Evoy, Brett McGuinness, Ryan Horvat, Bobby Cook, Brett Catto, and Steve Kerr.

 Oh, yeah, and the Cyclones goalie was pretty good too – Anthony Peters stopped 26 of 28 shots. ;) Every team needs a top notch ’tender and the Blyth native certainly fits that requirement to a “Tâ€Â�.

 The Red, White and Black served notice that they are more than ready and willing to get down to business and get things started in the 2011 March Madness Playoff Derby.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Jordan Leyser: Number 5 had 3A and played well in his own zone throughout the match. The Stratford native plays a steady game and is the consummate team player, doing what his coaches ask of him game in and game out all season long.

 2 Points Each - Brett McGuinness and David Dalby: Number 12 and Number 9 both had another solid outing and helped decide the outcome of this match early on. David’s goal was a work of art and Brett scored 1G and 1A using some good hustle and energy in the offensive zone. Both forwards, along with Tanner Simpson provide the Cyclones with an effective 3^rd line forward trio.

 1 Point – Tanner Simpson: Number 22 had 2 assists in this game when matched up with Dalby & Mc Guinness, he can provide some sandpaper and muscle that helps make this trio an effective line combination for the Red, White and Black.

 Next Stop………………………………………..March Madness !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

Cyclones Win 6-5 OT Thriller Over Dutchmen

Friday, February 25^th the Cyclones endured the ravages of a roughneck gong show and prevailed with a 6 – 5 OT win over the Kitchener Dutchmen. Despite being outshot by a 45 – 35 margin the Cyclones used 3 PP goals and 1 SHG to defeat a rowdy Dutchmen team that seemed more interested in fighting than in winning the hockey game. The win was the Cyclones 30^th of the season and it completed a 6 for 6 sweep of the Dutchmen this season.

 Kitchener opened the scoring with what was a good shorthanded goal at 4:21 of the 1^st period but the Cyclones reeled off 4 straight in the 1^st period. Ryan Horvat tied it at 5:49 with a sharp angled shot after the puck rattled off the end boards from a heavy shot by Mac Nichol - Brandon Passley also assisted. The Listowel PP struck again at 8:06 when Tyler Evoy rapped in a weak side rebound after Brett Catto and Bobby Cook set up the original shot on goal. The Cyclones increased their lead with an even strength goal at 13:14 when Ryan Horvat gathered in a cross ice feed from Brett Catto and slammed it home – Caleb Cameron also assisted. The Cyclones Brett McGuinness struck during the PK when he scored an unassisted goal from the right side of the net.

 Kitchener scored at 5:42 of the second period from the face off circle to the right of the Cyclones goal but that was offset by another Cyclones PP goal at 9:58. The rebound from Mac Nichol’s high and rising shot was swatted in by Brett Catto to restore the Cyclones 3 goal lead. In the 2^nd period intermission, Bill Thompson held the hot hand and the sharp eye, scoring a goal scorer’s goal in the Listowel Car City Shootout. Good Job Bill!!!

 The 3^rd period featured 3 goals by Kitchener and two scraps – one involving Brandon Passley and the other involving Ryan Horvat. Both Cyclones accounted for themselves very well in the bouts. With 56 seconds left in the 3^rd period the Dutchmen thought they had scored the game winner on the power play but upon further review, the goal was not counted (kicked in with a Kitchener skate).

 Off to overtime we went and it was the Cyclones Captain Bobby Cook who artfully buried a cross ice pass from masterfully Cyclonic playmaker Brett Catto to end the game at the 2:43 mark of the extra frame.

 This game clearly demonstrated that the Cyclones cannot be intimidated by whatever tomfoolery the other team chooses to throw at them; and that they can also play the finesse game to win.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Brett Catto: Number 17 had 1G and 3A in the game, a repeat performance from his game #49 effort in Owen Sound that took place 2 nights previous to this game. Brett is keen for the playoffs to start and come next week he will be ready to go.

 2 Points - Ryan Horvat: Number 14 had 2 goals in the game – another repeat performance from his effort in Owen Sound. Ryan is another player who takes his game seriously and that will be just the tonic that the Cyclones will need for the first round of the March Madness playoff derby.

 2 Points - Bobby Cook: Number 16 had the game winning goal and 1 assist. The Cyclones captain has been a power performer all year and this game was no exception.

 1 Point – Brett McGuinness: Number 12 had another solid effort and delivered a much needed shorthanded goal. Though he may be small in stature, Brett’s effort and energy are what makes him a large part of the Cyclones in every game that he plays for the Red White & Black.

 1 Point – David Dalby: Number 9 also had a solid effort for the Cyclones by doing the little things necessary to compete hard and to help his team to victory. A continued effort such as this will be essential to the Cyclones playoff ambitions.

 The final weekend of the regular season winds up when the troops travel to Waterloo for their final regular season game - a 1:30 p.m. match against the Siskins. Stay tuned to this location for the playoff match ups and the game times. March Madness is almost upon us.

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

 

Cyclones Win 5-3 in Owen Sound

Wednesday, February 23^rd the Cyclones trekked northwards along Highway #6 to Owen Sound to take on a keen and energetic Greys squad. After peppering the Greys nets with 42 shots after 40 minutes of play the Cyclones found themselves on the short end of a 3-2 score. Even more perplexing was the fact that the Greys had managed to obtain their lead on only 16 shots on goal after two periods. In the third period the Cyclones bore down on their opposition and scored 3 times on 14 shots while repelling all 10 shots directed at their net. The Cyclones finished the game with 56 shots on goal, 26 shots against, 2 for 4 on the power play and 3 for 4 on the penalty kill and had allowed one shorthanded goal. The win is the 29^th of the season for the Cyclones who stand in 5^th place with 66 points in the GOJHL Midwest Division.

 The Greys started the scoring with a power play goal at 8:21. Gowland & de Jary worked the puck low behind the net and centered it to Ackerland who floated a knuckling shot over Gatlin Burt. The Cyclones quickly evened the score at 8:58 when Caleb Cameron jammed in an unassisted goal after a giveaway in the slot area. The Greys special teams were at it again when they scored shorthanded at the 15:25 mark. Shifty Greys forward Ackerland eluded a hip check at the Cyclones blueline; turning a 2 on 2 rush into a 2 on 1 rush. Ackerland continued to drive the net, attracted a crowd and then dished the puck off to MacDermid for the redirect into the open side.

 At 6:33 of the second period, the Cyclones power play clicked into gear when Ryan Horvat fed a pass from the left corner to the side of the net where Brett Catto had time to dangle and get the goaltender to shift over before sliding the puck in short side. Brandon Passley earns an unofficial assist by winning the face of to the right of the Owen Sound net to get the play started inside the zone. At 10:22 of the second period the fireworks went off when Gatlin Burt and Jake McLay erupted into fisticuffs well after the puck had cleared the Listowel zone. Anthony Peters was then summoned to tend goal for the Cyclones. Just over 2 minutes later at 12:26 the Greys struck again with their 3^rd goal off of a rebound that was scooped in from at the side of the net (Kitching from Dobinson and Pope). Prior to the goal, the Cyclones were pressing deep inside the Owen Sound zone when the loose puck was quickly sent the other way on a 3 on 2 rush.

 In the third period the Cyclones regrouped and led a refreshed attack on the Owen Sound net. Try as they might the Red, White & Black could not pull even until they scored their 2^nd PP goal of the game at the 13:43 mark. Blake Thompson’s shot from the right wing point went off of an Owen Sound stick and into the net – Joel Bowman and Brett Catto assisted on the scoring play. Both teams continued to battle fiercely and at 17:39 the Cyclones caught a break when they were able to defend an Owen Sound scoring attack and then engineer a 2 on 1 counter attack of their own. Brett Catto grabbed a loose puck inside his own zone and fed a quick outlet to Brandon Passley. Number 7 burned down the right wing and then sent a beauty cross ice pass to a streaking Ryan Horvat, where Number 14 redirected the puck into an open cage. Owen Sound pressed hard for the tying goal and had their goaltender pulled in favour of a 6^th skater with under 60 seconds to play. Ryan Horvat sealed the win when he took a pass from Brett Catto and gained the center ice red line before firing the puck the rest of the way for the EN goal.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points - Brett Catto: Number 17 had 1G and 3A in the game and he helped to make the difference on the score sheet for his team. Brett is keen for the playoffs to start and come next week he will be ready to go.

 2 Points - Ryan Horvat: Number 14 had 2 goals in the game including the game winner. Ryan is another player who takes his game seriously and that will be just the tonic that the Cyclones will need for the first round of the March Madness playoff derby.

 1 Point - Brandon Passley: Number 7 assisted on the game winning goal and was involved on the Cyclones 2^nd goal of the game. Brandon gives a solid on ice effort and this game was no exception.

 Honorable mention goes to the forward trio of Tanner Simpson, David Dalby & Brett Mc Guinness who played a gritty and inspired game. A continued effort such as this will be essential to the Cyclones playoff ambitions.

 The final weekend of the regular season will be a busy one for the Cyclones.  On Friday the 25^th the Cyclones host Kitchener’s for a 7:30 p.m. rematch game against the scrappy Dutchmen, and then on Sunday the troops travel to Waterloo for their final regular season game - a 1:30 p.m. match against the Siskins.

 Stay tuned to this location for the playoff match ups and the game times. March Madness is almost upon us.

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

Cyclones Shutout Dutchmen 2-0

That was quite a game in Kitchener last night. It featured some decent hockey, quite a few scraps, a lot of verbal banter, and in the end, a Cyclone victory. Anthony Peters, although only facing 17 shots, had to be sharp to earn this 2-0 shutout. We saw Brandon Passley ejected early in the game for a questionable boarding call and that seemed to set the tone for the game.

Ryan Horvat scored his 2nd short handed goal in 2 games as he scored the winning goal on a breakaway in the 2nd period. He was fed a perfect pass by Brett Catto and out-muscled a determined defender for the goal. Although the Cyclones generated several quality scoring chances, they would not score again until 18:41 of the 3rd period. Although this reporter was downstairs signing for pizza, it was rumoured to be another amazing Brett Catto goal. It was assisted by Patrick Bell.

In the scrapping side of things, the Cyclone combatants did very well as they took 3 of 4 decisions. All unanimous in the voting. Sam Patterson and Ty Bilcke both performed admirably but it was a surprising bout that featured the always hard  working, Brett McGuinness, that proved to be the fight of the night. Although known for his never ending determination as he battles for the puck, Brett showed the same effort as he threw haymaker after haymaker. Well done Brett.  Jeff Bauer, although receiving an "A" for effort, found himself in a mismatch of a bout. Another hard worker, Jeff won't let that get him down as he will be back on the ice tonight with the rest of his Cyclone mates.

Tonight they travel to Owen Sound to take on the Grey's.

You don't want to miss Friday nights game as Kitchener comes back to Listowel for what should be a dandy.

Go Cyclones Go!

SugarKings Edge Cyclones 3-2 in OT

Sunday, February 20^th, the Cyclones clashed in Elmira against the Sugar Kings at Dan Snyder arena.  After 60 plus minutes and over 100 shots on goal later, Elmira scratched out a 3-2 OT win. The game was a snapshot of what both teams have done to each other all season. Both teams were engaged in hand - to- hand combat all night long as they took turns attacking and counter attacking. Stellar goaltending and some sparkling offensive moves were also featured in the game. This game was relatively clean in so far as penalties were concerned as both teams were on a mission to compete for the 2 points that were up for grabs. The usual chopping, bone jarring hitting and after the whistle scrums and verbal sparring were all included in the package but at least for this game, this was overshadowed by both team’s desire for the win. Heading into the game, Elmira still had a legitimate shot at a 1^st place regular season finish while the Cyclones were still clinging to a chance for a 4^th place finish and home ice advantage in round 1 of the play offs.

 The Cyclones scored 1^st in the game with a shorthanded marker at 3:37. Sam Paterson caught the Sugar Kings PP unit flat footed when he sprung Ryan Horvat loose with a perfect tape-to-tape pass in the neutral zone. Number 14 roared down the remaining length of the ice, and with a burst of speed roofed a shot over the blocker of Matt Smith. Both teams traded chances but there would be no more scoring until the first portion of the second period. At 6:51 of the 2^nd period, Captain Bobby Cook redirected a blue line shot from Sam Paterson that went through the legs of Matt Smith. Pat Bell drew an assist on the play. The score stayed that way until the 16:23 mark of the second period. After some sustained fore checking pressure by Elmira, an odd man situation down low created a wide open net and the lead was cut down to 2-1. At 5:02 of the third period, a neutral zone turnover led to a 2 on 2 rush and the tying goal. Both teams battled back & forth but could not find the finishing touch around the net to settle this thing in regular time. With 1:29 remaining and a shoot out on the horizon, Elmira won the game on a deflected shot from the blueline.

 With the win Elmira moves into 3^rd place, tied with Stratford with 68 points and Listowel clinched 5^th place. The final week of the season has arrived and with only a handful of games left, the top 4 finishes are still unknown. It will be a crazy week and it will be a fitting start to the 2011 March Madness playoff derby.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points - Anthony Peters: Number 33 had over 50 saves in the game and held his team in contention all the way. The rest of the league is quick to chirp but Anthony prefers to do his talking on the ice.

 2 Points - Sam Paterson: Number 25 had 2 assists and strong game inside his own zone. Sam plays the typical stay at home defensive style and is not afraid to mix it up with anybody in this league.

 1 Point Each - The forward trio of Tanner Simpson, David Dalby & Brett Mc Guinness played a gritty game on the PK and at even strength. A continued effort such as this will be essential to the Cyclones playoff ambitions.

 The final week of the regular season will be a busy one for the Cyclones.  On Tuesday the 22nd, they visit Kitchener’s Kinsmen arena for a 7:00 p.m. game against the scrappy Dutchmen, then on Wednesday they travel north to Owen Sound for a 7:30 p.m. match, followed by their last home game on Friday against Kitchener, and then a 1:30 p.m. game in Waterloo on Sunday to finish the regular season.

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

Cyclones Win 5-3 Over WinterHawks

Friday, February 18^th, the Cyclones hosted the Cambridge Winterhawks at Memorial Arena. Despite surrendering 2 shorthanded goals in the 1^st period; the home side prevailed in a 5 to 3 victory. The win was the 27^th of the season for the Red, White and Black who pounded 55 shots at the Cambridge net, scoring 3 power play goals on 10 chances; while allowing Cambridge 30 shots on goal and 1 power play goal against on 6 chances.

 The Cyclones dominated the play in the opening 20 minutes, outshooting Cambridge by a 19 – 8 margin, but were tied 2-2 at the end of the period. Josh Timpano struck first for Cambridge at 4:57 with a high rising shot down the right wing, but Joel Bowman replied with an unassisted master piece at 7:31. David Dalby hustled to keep the puck in at the left wing blueline, where Cambridge turned it over to Number 6, who grabbed the puck, headed for open ice and drifted a laser shot short side to tie the game at 1’s. Cambridge took the momentum back 8 seconds later at 7:43 when captain Ryan Clarke broke in alone off the face off and snapped the puck off the bar and in for a 2-1 lead. Cambridge continued to take dumb penalties and the Cyclones gladly accepted the chance for their 1^st of 3 PP goals of the game. Joel Bowman made a cross ice feed to Mac Nichol and from the right wing side, Number 8 placed a hard low shot that was redirected in front by Pat Bell at 17:38.

 During the 1^st intermission, the fans were treated by some furious and stylish end to end exhibition play by the Wallace Tim Bits All Stars. Good work kids.

 In the second period the Winterhawks grabbed a 3-2 lead at 5:24 when they scored their only PP goal of the game with a 5 on 3 man advantage – Joe Hockert from Chris Chapman and Josh Timpano. From this point in the game Cambridge lost their momentum with a parade to the penalty box and 2 Cyclones power play goals in less than 5 minutes. Ryan Horvat scored his 1^st goal of the game at 10:23 after redirecting a Joel Bowman shot from inside the blue line. Brett Catto also earned an assist on the play. At 14:07 the Cyclones struck again when another Cambridge penalty resulted in Horvat’s 2^nd goal of the game from the right wing side with assists from Blake Thompson and Brett Catto. The Cyclones outshot Cambridge 24 – 11 in the second period and held a slim 4-3 after 40 minutes.

 In the 3^rd period Cambridge was denied any chance for a comeback by a stingy Cyclones defence and by some strong goaltending from Anthony Peters. Cambridge’s Scott Mitchell thought he would be clever and goad Sam Paterson into a fight at the 6:56 mark. Before the scrap was over, Sammy tagged the Winterhawk with some good swats to the chops. The history of this scrap started in the second period, when Paterson was crunched into the boards head first by Fedak which resulted in a boarding call and then the Cyclones power play goal at 14:07. At 14:38, Paterson & Mitchell were each sent off for 10 minute misconducts, and while in the box both players had a great deal to say to each other across the glass. So, with all that in mind, it was a matter of time before the two players would tangle again and continue their “deep and philosophical hockey discussionsâ€Â�.

 Back to hockey and any notions that Cambridge had of gathering momentum from Mitchell’s behavior went down the drain at 9:50. Some persistent fore checking by Brandon Passley caused a Cambridge turnover just outside the Cambridge blue line. Brett Catto grabbed the loose puck, waited for Passley to get himself on side and then proceeded to score the highlight reel goal of the night. Number 17 put on a clinic as he weaved his way through the defenders and then made Colin Furlong look downright foolish with a ‘sickâ€Â� move before swooping past the sprawling net minder and sliding the puck into the yawning cage. That dazzling display took the collective air right out of the Cambridge bench and permanently deflated the Winterhawks for the final 10 minutes of the game. The Cyclones “Dâ€Â� and Anthony Peters shut them down the rest of the way.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points – Ryan Horvat: Number 14 had 2G and was a Cyclonic force all night long. The Simcoe native has 15G and 43 points in 35 games and is starting to find his stride and intensity before the playoffs begin.

 2 Points – Brett Catto: Number 17 had the “Highlight of The Night Goalâ€Â� & he added 2 assists for a 3 point night. The Kincardine native is the “straw that stirs the drinkâ€Â� from one game to the next for the Cyclones.

 1 Point – Joel Bowman: Number 6 had 1 G and 2 A in the game. The Atwood native has had a fine season on the Cyclones blue line, playing very well in all situations, and makes a strong case for d-man of the year in the Midwest Conference.

 On Sunday, February 20^th the Cyclones travel down Highway #86 to Elmira for a 7:00 p.m. contest with the Sugar Kings. The battle of Highway #86 continues as both teams have been fought hard and have been at each other’s throats all season. Both teams like to mix it up against each other, so expect another crazy affair at the Dan Snyder Arena.

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

Cyclones Travel to Lambton Shores and Win 9-1

Tuesday, February 15^th, the Cyclones travelled south and west to square off against the Lambton Shores Predators at the Recreation Centre in Forest. The Predators are last in the Western Conference of the GOJHL and were no match for a Cyclones line up that was depleted due to injuries and suspensions.

 The Red, White and Black pummeled the opposition nets with 59 shots while allowing only 25 to be directed at Gatlin Burt. Neither team was successful on the power play as the Cyclones were 0 for 4 and the Predators were 0 for 5.

 Ryan Horvat got the scoring parade started at 2:36 of the 1^st period (assisted by Jeff Bauer & Brandon Passley) and then Bobby Cook made it 2-0 at the 6:49 mark (assisted by the brothers Turcotte – Luke & Spencer). In the second period Cook struck again at 1:35 (from Caleb Cameron & Patrick Bell), followed by Spencer Turcotte at 2:25 (Ty Bilcke & Bobby Cook). Matt Rupert replied for the home squad at 4:05 (from Arsenault & Downie) but 2 more by the Cyclones before the end of the second period put the game out of reach. Spencer Turcotte scored his 2^nd of the game at 6:29 (Cook & Bilcke) and hard working Brandon Passley scored at 17:53 (Horvat & Bauer). The second period also involved a scrap between James Bruin and Ty Bilcke after there was some on ice disagreement on whether it was better to save for an RRSP or to contribute to a TFSA. Either way, both players received fighting majors and game misconducts, giving them an early shower and some extra time to do some research and file their reports.

 In the third period,  the Cyclones blew the doors off the match with 3 more goals, Bobby Cook’s hat trick goal at 5:15 (unassisted), followed by young guns David Dalby (from Brett Mc Guinness) at 11:18 and Jeff Bauer at 17:42 (Ryan Horvat and Brandon Passley with the assists).

 The win gives the Cyclones 26 for the year and the Red, White & Black continue to hold down 5^th place in the 9 team Midwestern Conference of the GOJHL.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points – Bobby Cook: Number 16 had 5 point night with 3 G and 2 A and along with his team mates; the Captain was too much for the opposition to handle in this game.

 2 Points – Gatlin Burt: Number 1 stopped 24 of 25 shots, beaten only by Lambton’s top shooter. Gatlin continues to give a steady effort and offers a quality start when called upon by the Cyclones coaching staff.

 1 Point – Spencer Turcotte: Number 27 had 2 G and 1 A in the game and is taking advantage of his size and ability in the offensive zone to create some Cyclonic scoring plays in the 2^nd half of the regular season.

 The Cyclones return home on Friday the 18^th to square off against the Cambridge Winterhawks. Sunday, February 20^th the Cyclones travel down Highway #86 to Elmira for a 7:00 p.m. battle with the Sugar Kings. Both Cambridge & Elmira enjoy chatting it up and playing a dubious roughneck style of hockey so expect no love and lots of fireworks next weekend.

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

Cyclones Lose 3-2 To Visiting Hurricanes

Friday, February 11th, the Cyclones returned home to take on the Guelph Hurricanes in game #44 of their regular season schedule. The Red, White & Black scored first and scored last but in between it was the Hurricanes who scored a trio of goals to emerge with the 3-2 regulation time win. Momentum swings back and forth all night took the flow out of the Cyclones game, and although the home side had some good chances to score at various points of the match, they could not find the touch needed around the net to bury their chances. Gatlin Burt stopped 32 of 35 shots in the Cyclones net, while his mates directed 32 shots at the Guelph nets. The Cyclones PP was 2 for 5 on the night and the PK department was 5 for 7. Special teams and penalties were front and centre for both clubs this evening.

 In the opening 20 minutes the Cyclones outshot Guelph by a 12 – 6 margin but both clubs were tied after 20 minutes. The Cyclones got things started at 4:04 with a power play goal from Ryan Horvat, his 12^th of the campaign, with assists to Brandon Passley and Blake Thompson. At 6:55 Guelph responded with the only even strength goal that either team could manage all game long.

 In the second period untimely penalties cost the Cyclones as Guelph capitalized twice on the PP, first at 49 seconds on a rebound conversion and later on at 15:21when a centering pass deflected off of a defending stick and the puck hit the twine. Both teams recorded 12 shots on goal in the middle stanza of play.

 The same story held true for the Cyclones in the third period. Down by a 3-1 margin to start the period, the Cyclones found their way into the penalty box more often than they found their way to the opposing team’s net, registering 1 goal on 6 shots. Guelph kept the Cyclones off stride with 17 shots on net, as they had several solid scoring chances from close range. With time running out and 6 attackers on the ice, Captain Bobby Cook deflected a left wing point shot from Pat Bell, but with only 5.1 seconds left the Cyclones had no more miracles left to force the game into an OT session.

 The Cyclones remain in 5^th place with 53 points and now trail 4^th place Elmira by 5 points. The Cyclones remain 5 points clear of 6^th place Kitchener with 1 game in hand on the Dutchmen.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points – Brandon Passley: Number 7 had 1A and he gave a full effort from start to finish at both ends of the ice, leading the team by example with his drive and determination.

 2 Points – Gatlin Burt: Number 1 played well and kept his team in the match until the very end, making some sparkling saves in the 3^rd period to keep it close until the final buzzer. The colorful Owen Sound native has a natural ability to draw attention inside the blue paint.

 1 Point – Bobby Cook: Number 16 scored 1G and was another Cyclone player who led by example throughout the game showing why he was selected the team captain for this season.

 On Tuesday, February 15^th the Cyclones travel south to Forest to take on the Lambton Shores Predators before returning home on Friday the 18^th to square off against the Cambridge Winterhawks. Sunday, February 20^th the Cyclones travel down Highway #86 to Elmira for a 7:00 p.m. battle with the Sugar Kings. Both Cambridge & Elmira enjoy chatting it up and playing a dubious roughneck style of hockey so expect no love and lots of fireworks next weekend.

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

Special guests of the Cyclones this evening were the young Listowel Tim Bits Tykes who took a bite out of the ice during the first intermission. Good Job Kids.

 It is the last call for your chance to buy tickets in the annual CYCLONES BIG DRAW. Draw day is Feb. 18^th during the Cambridge game, so you have less than a week to get your tickets for a chance at some awesome prizes.

 A shout out to the Wingham Ironmen of the Western Junior C League and the Monkton Wildcats of the W.O.A.A Senior League as both teams continue to do battle in their playoff seasons.

 

Brantford Scores 5 in 3rd Period for 7-4 Win

This game went back and forth a few times but it was Brantford that finished off strong to earn this 7-4 win. With our roving reporter suffering from the flu, we will be lacking his usual in depth analysis of the game. Judging by the number of penalties, this was  not a friendly match.

This was a big win for Brantford as it keeps them in the hunt for 1st. With the loss, it keeps the Cyclones in 5th. With the season winding down quickly, there are still a lot of possible outcomes.

For the Cyclones, they must put this loss out of their heads and get ready for another tough game tomorrow night against the visiting Guelph Hurricanes. You will not want to miss this 7:30 start in Listowel.

If you don't have your tickets yet for the Cylones "Big Ticket" Draw, they are only 3 for $20. The draw is only 1 week away on Friday Feb. 28th. With a $3000 Travel voucher for the 1st prize, you may want to buy a full book for only $70. Tickets available from all executive members as well as most players. Don't miss the chance to win and support the Cyclones.

See you at the rink.

Go Cyclones Go.

Cullitons Finish Strong With 5-4 OT Win

Sunday, February 6th, the Cyclones resumed action with Game #42 of their regular season schedule. The Red, White & Black locked horns with the 1^st place Stratford Cullitons in another epic on ice battle between these two intense Perth County rivals. After 60 plus minutes the Cullitons won a 5-4 overtime thriller. For 20 plus minutes the Cyclones showed why they had been on a 9 game winning streak and for 40 plus minutes the Cullitons countered by demonstrating how they are the 1^st place team in the Midwest Division of the GOJHL. When these 2 teams lace up their skates and take to the ice anything can happen, and this game was no exception.

 In the opening 20 minutes the Cyclones came out flying and had built up a 3-0 lead in less than 12 minutes from the opening face - off. Both teams played a fast skating and hard hitting 1^st period, trading end to end scoring chances. The Cyclones gained the upper hand early with a tremendous fore check and blazing speed inside the Cullitons defensive zone, forcing the Cullitons into errors and turnovers. This, coupled with a sub - par performance by starting Evan Groenestege (12 saves on 15 shots) put the Cullitons into a deep hole to start the game. Ty Bilcke got the scoring parade started at 8:19 when he broke in all alone to undress Groenestege with a back hand shot. Blake Thompson got the play started at the Cyclones end when he broke up a Cullitons attack and then made the swift transition pass to big Number 28. The Cyclones struck again at 9:01when Brett Catto passed the puck up to newly acquired forward Brandon Passley, who then roared down the right wing and snapped a shot from a sharp angle that dribbled through Groenestege. The goal came just scant moments after Cyclones goaltender Anthony Peters foiled a good scoring chance at the other end of the ice. The Cyclones continued to pour it on and struck for goal #3 at 11:13. The play started off when the Cyclones hammered the puck deep into the Cullitons zone, Big Number 28 Ty Bilcke roared in on the fore check and forced the Cullitons to move the puck quickly around the boards. The resulting turn over landed onto the stick of Luke Turcotte, who trapped the disc inside the right point and unleashed a high and rising howitzer shot. Groenestege blocked the high shot but he failed to grab it in his mitt before it dropped to the ice at his feet. Luke’s younger (but almost as large) brother, Spencer Turcotte, was in front of the net to pounce on the loose puck and jam it through the crease and across the goal line.

At this point Derek Mitchell was summoned to tend the Stratford net and the situation stabilized itself as both teams got into penalties for the remainder of the period, killing the end to end play that had dominated the opening half of the period.

 The Cyclones started the second period with 1:09 of PP time but could not cash in. The Cullitons battled hard and got onto the board with a goal similar to the Cyclones 2^nd goal of the game. A shot on net and uncontrolled rebounds set the stage for the goal by McCrank at 2:58 (assists by Dol & Ryan). Both teams continued to trade chances at even strength and on the power play before the Cullitons Brad McClure scored a 4 on 4 goal at 12:16; off of the face- off with an innocent shot from outside the face - off circle. The Cyclones replied at 14:16 after a sharp eyed Joel Bowman made a tape t tape pass to a fleet footed Pat Bell. Number 20 took the puck in full stride, left the defenders in his vapor trail and bulged the twine. The goal restored the momentum in the Cyclones favour for the remainder of the period as both teams battled along the boards and in the neutral zone for puck possession.

 The third period was the tipping point of the game as the Cullitons and Cyclones continued to battle but the Cyclones could not maintain their fore check pressure or keep the Cullitons hemmed up inside their own zone. The most bizarre sequence of the game transpired when the Cullitons had thought they had scored their 3^rd goal but the referee’s whistle had sounded before the puck crossed the line. At 12:36 the Cullitons trio of Mc Crank, Dol and Ryan made no mistake as they scored at 12:36 to draw within 1. With less than 1 minute left and the Cullitons goaltender pulled, and a Cyclone player in the penalty box, the Cullitons tied the game with 26 seconds left. Pleon passed the puck to Mc Clure and the sniper’s shot from outside the perimeter found its way into the twine. 

 In overtime both teams traded chances until the Cullitons broke in on a 3 on 1 when Dol took a pass from Barton and buried the biscuit at 3:07. Moments earlier, the Cyclones had a 2 on 1 rush of their own but that chance fizzled out when the net was knocked off the pegs after a collision of bodies.

 The Cyclones tallied 44 shots on goal while allowing 41 shots against; they were a dismal 0 for 10 on the power play and 5 for 6 on the penalty kill. The Cyclones remain in 5^th place with 53 points and now trail 4^th place Elmira by 3 points, but have 1 game in hand on the Sugar Kings. The OT point moves the Cyclones 5 points clear of the 6^th place Kitchener with 3 games in hand on the Dutchmen.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points – Pat Bell: Number 20 recorded 1G for a total of 24 on the season and was a constant scoring threat during the game.

 2 Points – Brandon Passley: Number 7 recorded 1G for a total of 15 on the season and was another Cyclonic force of speed and grit on the Cyclones forward lines.

 1 Point – Ty Bilcke: Number 28 scored 1G and used his size, speed and skills to create mayhem inside the Cullitons zone. The 16 year old from Exeter has been forced to sit out recently due to an upper body injury and he made the most of his first game in 2011. Keep up the hard work Ty.

 On Thursday, February 10^th the Cyclones travel south to Brantford to take on the veteran Eagles squad at the Civic Centre before retuning home on Friday night to square off against the high flying Guelph Hurricanes. Both games will be a stern pre-playoff test for the Cyclones.

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

Special guests of the Cyclones were the youngsters from Elma-Logan Minor Hockey who put forth an entertaining display of hockey during the 1^st intermission - future Cyclones and Wildcats in action.

 This game against the Cullitons was the 6^th and final regular season match up. Both teams won 3 games apiece, one on each other’s ice and two games were decided by one goal.

 If these teams were to meet again this season, it would be in the playoffs and it would most likely be a 2^nd round clash of epic proportions. In that case, then this reporter predicts that 7 arenas would be needed, because the fans would tear down the building to the foundations after each game.

Go Cyclones Go!!!

Cyclones Skate to Lopsided Victory Over Grey's

Friday, February 4th, the Cyclones resumed action after not having played since posting an impressive 3-0 home ice win against Stratford on January 23^rd. The Red, White and Black showed no signs of rust or indifference towards their opponent as they lit up the Owen Sound Greys by an overwhelming 18 – 2 score.

 The Cyclones tallied 53 shots on goal while allowing 26 shots against; they were 2 for 4 on the power play and had a perfect 6 for 6 night on the penalty kill.

 18 of the 20 Cyclones on the game roster registered at least one point on the score sheet including an assist drawn by winning goaltender, Anthony Peters. The Cyclones have registered their 25^th win of the season after 41 regular season games played. The win moves the Cyclones to within 2 points of 4^th place Elmira with one game in hand on the Sugar Kings. The win also moves the Cyclones 4 points clear of 6^th place Kitchener with 3 games in hand on the Dutchmen.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points – Tanner Simpson: Number 22 recorded 3G & 3A but more importantly started the game by skating hard, working hard in the corners, and attacking the net with gusto. “Simper� will be counted on to continue with this same kind of effort deep into the playoffs.

 2 Points – Brandon Passley: Number 7 recorded 3G & 1A and he was another driving force for the Cyclones in the early stages of the game. In his final Junior year, Brandon is also being depended on to give the Cyclones added depth and energy at the forward position; and to provide leadership through hard work. 

1 Point – Brett Catto: Number 17 scored 3G & 1A and his collective array of experience, skill and savvy was just too much for the young Owen Sound team to handle. Brett’s hockey smarts and skills will be a most valuable asset to the Cyclones over the remainder of their regular season schedule of games, and into the post season.

 On Sunday, February 6^th the Cullitons return for another 1:30 p.m. matinee game at Memorial Arena. This match will mark the final regular season contest between the two Perth County rivals. This reporter anticipates that this game will be another epic battle.

The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

Cyclones Executive Bob Boertien has the last word and he leaves us with the following thoughts:

 

On a somber note, a great past executive member, continuous supporter, and friend to many of us, Lorne Vollmer,

passed away this week. I can remember as a young executive member, Lorne would always be there to lend a hand,

and have a chuckle with, no matter what was going on. If you look across the ice from the announcers booth, you will see

the Cyclone room, some of his handiwork. (something that we will always relate to Lorne) Another memory I have of

Lorne is how he would always ask me, "Have we picked up any defensemen yet? You always need good Dmen."

My guess is he must have been happy with this year's team.

God Bless and RIP Lorne.                                                      Booker

Go Cyclones Go!!!

Cyclones Win 3rd Game of Weekend:3-0 Over Stratford

Sunday, January 23^rd, the Cyclones played their third game in 3 days and their 2^nd in less than 24 hours. On the Day of the Teddy Bear Toss for the North Perth Hospice the Cyclones pawed their way to a 3-0 victory over the Stratford Cullitons. Fresh off an emotionally charged 2-1 shoot out victory from the night before in Cambridge, the Cyclones team played another full out 60 minutes of fast paced smash mouth hockey; so much so that the opposing Cullitons could bear-ly stand it ;). The defensive effort of the Cyclones was overwhelming as Anthony Peters repelled 34 shots and his teammates offered more than ample defensive support inside the Cyclones zone. The Cyclones pumped 34 shots at the Cullitons goal and the Red, White and Black and controlled the ebb and flow of the game as they won battles for loose pucks, dug hard in the corners and battled constantly in the neutral zone for control of the puck.

The first period of play saw both teams come out flying with fast end to end action. The Cyclones dominated control of the play in the period with a 14-5 shots on goal differential but the always dangerous Cullitons showed flashes of offensive life throughout the period. The Cyclones Pat Bell had 2 good chances to score – one on a nice 2 on 1 set up down low with Captain Bobby Cook; and the other when Ryan Horvat made a nice pass at centre ice to set Pat up for a swift rush down the right side. Caleb Cameron missed with a high rising shot as he streaked down the left wing side with skates a flash.

 The Cyclones got their scoring started in the second period at the 4:01 mark when Tyler Evoy and Brett Catto worked the puck towards the Stratford zone. After crossing the blueline, Catto made a crisp cross ice pass to Caleb Cameron who then redirected the puck from the edge of the crease past the Stratford goaltender for his 16^th of the season. The red light flashed and the bears were launched into the air and on the ice. Milverton Minor Hockey players were on hand to assist with retrieving the bears and bundling them up for the North Perth Hospice. At 5:56 the Cyclones struck again. Brandon Passley was quick to grab a loose puck inside his own zone and spring Tanner Simpson loose on a counter attack play down the left wing boards. Big #22 used his size and Cyclonic speed and skill to first protect the puck and then to send a tape - to - tape pass across ice to a speeding Jeff Bauer. Number 15 spent little time with the puck on his stick as he swiftly redirected the puck over the goal line for the 2-0 lead. For the remainder of the second period, the Cullitons pushed back hard but the Cyclones continued to successfully resist any pressure that the visitors could muster towards the Cyclones net. For their part the Cyclones continued to apply pressure for a 3^rd goal and continued to battle for loose pucks and frustrate the Cullitons with an effective fore checking effort. The 2^nd period shots on goal favored the Cyclones by a slim 12-11 edge.

 The Cyclones started the 3^rd period with a 5 on 3 man advantage but could not convert anything on this or any other power play for the afternoon. Shortly after both sides were evened up, the Cyclones Caleb Cameron & the Cullitons Brad Mc Clure had an intense discussion concerning the probable winners of today’s NFL Conference playoffs. This discussion had started deep in the Stratford zone and progressed to the other end of the rink where it finally came to blows at the side of the Cyclones net. No word on who picked whom for the Super Bowl. Exactly 6 minutes later Spencer Turcotte of the Red, White & Black took on Liam Maaskant deep inside the Cullitons zone after a face off. In both scraps, all combatants were each assessed a fighting major penalty and a game misconduct. Boys will be boys. The Cullitons continued to surge as the Cyclones foot speed seemed to waiver ever so slightly in the midpoint and latter stages of the third period. Cyclones goaltender Anthony Peters and his teammates answered the Cullitons challenge with an air tight defensive effort. 5 seconds after the Cyclones successfully killed off a minor penalty, they cemented the win with their 3^rd goal of the game. After jumping free from the penalty box, Luke Turcotte took control of the puck and sent Brett Catto loose up the middle of the ice. Number 17 drew a crowd as he sped into the zone before slipping the pass over to the right wing, where Ryan Horvat took the pass and directed a shot that lofted over the goaltender and into the yawning cage at 14:26. The Cullitons continued to press for a goal but the Cyclones were effective in shutting down any further scoring threats. The Cullitons held an 18 – 10 shots on goal advantage in the 3^rd period and after 60 minutes both teams each registered 34 shots on goal.

 The win is the eighth in a row and the 24th of the season for the Cyclones and after 40 regular season games played it helps them keep pace with the upper top 4 teams in the GOJHL Midwestern Conference and it helps them stay clear of 6^th place Kitchener Dutchmen.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points - Brett Catto: Number 17 from Kincardine had 2A to stretch his totals to 25A and 37 points in 31 games. Brett was a constant and Cyclonic force throughout the game.

 2 Points - Anthony Peters: Number 33 from Blyth was stellar yet again in the blue paint for the Cyclones as he turned aside all 34 shots that he faced in this game. In three games played thus far for the Red, White & Black, Anthony has allowed 4 goals on 125 shots.

 1 Point - Blake Thompson: In the absence of veteran blue liners Mac Nichol & Joel Bowman, Number 4 played a lot of minutes during a game against a very tough opponent. Blake led the defense by example with his hard work and attention to detail.

 1 Point – The Rest of Game Roster: For as much as there are individual contributions that must be recognized, this was also a superb team effort by the ENTIRE Cyclones team. It would have been easy to make excuses had they lost today, but the young men wearing the Red, White & Black played with pride and played with heart. They battled for 60 minutes, they did the little things and they made the sacrifices needed to help their team win. In recognition of that effort, they are all awarded a point.

 GREAT WORK GUYS!!!

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

 On behalf of the North Perth Hospice, the Cyclones say “Thank Youâ€Â� to all of the fans who tossed a teddy bear and contributed to this most worthy and most valuable community cause.

 Due to what may be a funky glitch in the GOJHL Scheduling, the Cyclones do not see any game action until February 2^nd when they trek north on Highway #6 to Owen Sound. Will the Greys see their shadow or instead will it be the shadow of the Cyclonic machine that will be bearing down upon them?

 On Friday, February 4^th, the Greys are at Memorial Arena for a 7:30 p.m. tilt; then on Sunday, February 6^th the Cullitons return for another 1:30 p.m. matinee game at Memorial Arena. Both of these home games mark the final regular season contests against the Greys and the Cullitons.

 The Cyclones continue their quest for success! Are You Ready? Bleed Red, White & Black! Go Cycs’ Go!!

Cyclones Edge WinterHawks 2-1 In Shootout

In Game #39 on Saturday, January 22^nd the Cyclones marched into the Galt Arena on Shade Street in Cambridge. After 2 ½ hours of fierce and heated competition, the Cyclones emerged victorious with a thrilling 2 -1 shoot out win. Blyth’s Anthony Peters stood tall as he backstopped the win with 48 saves on 49 shots plus three more saves in the shoot out round for good measure. Ryan Horvat and Bobby Cook set up “Red Hot� Pat Bell for the opening goal of the game and in the shoot out it was Captain Bobby Cook who dangled and buried the winning shot.

  The win is the 23^rd of the season for the Cyclones and it is their 7^th in a row.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 4 Points - Anthony Peters: Number 33 from Blyth shone brilliantly with a 51 save performance and gains top honors for refusing to be rattled with the traffic in front of his crease, for skating by his bench late in the 3^rd period to offer some words of veteran encouragement to his teammates, and for keeping his composure after getting run into behind his net late in the 3^rd period by Scott Mitchell.

 3 Points – are awarded to the entire Cyclones game roster for their heroic team effort in this game. Cambridge did everything they could to intimidate the Red, White & Black but individually and as a team, the Cyclones refused to be pushed around. Period.

 Samples of Cyclonic heroism include the following:

 Mac Nichol took one for the team when he duked it up with Scott Mitchell after he ran Anthony Peters. For his efforts Mac will have to sit out the Stratford game but standing up for his goaltender was the only honorable thing to do while wearing a Cyclones uniform. Luke Turcotte gave no quarter to Jake Dotchin after Dotchin roared across the ice after the whistle to start a fight with the massive Cyclones blueliner. Joel Bowman took a head shot behind the play and after the whistle. Brett Catto took a stick in the face while on the bench. Steve Kerr made a huge defensive play to break up a Cambridge rush late in the OT before heading off the ice and crumpling on the bench in sheer exhaustion. Steve and fellow d-men Blake Thompson and Sam Patterson shone as they picked up the slack on the blue line as their line mates departed and the game wore on. Ryan Horvat was at his abrasive and feisty best, as his efforts charged up the rest of his teammates.

  The Cyclones were given a huge challenge and as a team they met the challenge.

 Cyclones Rule!!! Bleed Red, White & Black!!!

Big Crowd on Hand To See Cyclones Beat Waterloo 4-3

Friday, January 21^st, the Cyclones and Siskins tangled in GOJHL action and once again the Cyclones emerged on the winning side by a 4-3 margin after 60 minutes of play in front of over 600 fans at Memorial Arena.

 The Cyclones welcomed Luke Turcotte to the team and look forward to having him help patrol the blueline and bounce around opposing forwards inside the defensive zone. Also, this game marked the annual Food Drive sponsored by Oak Tree Financial. The Cyclones thank Oak Tree Financial for their continued support as a long time corporate sponsor of the team; and the Cyclones are proud to assist Oak Tree Financial with this very worthy community project. Both the Cyclones and Oak Tree Financial extend a special “Thank Youâ€Â� to the fans that brought their food donations this evening in support of the local food bank.

 The game was very similar to last Friday’s 4-3 Cyclones OT win. Both teams played an exciting, fast paced, end to end game that saw lead changes, few penalties and lots of shots. The Cyclones launched 39 shots at Marc Williams and went 0 for 3 on the PP and 4 for 4 on the PK. Gatlin Burt turned away 20 of 23 Siskins shots on goal and had help from his teammates as the Cyclones offensive effort kept Waterloo busy in their own end during the 1^st period. Clinging to a 1 goal lead with 20 minutes to go the Cyclones played a smothering team defence in the 3^rd period to keep the shots on goal against to a minimum.

 Captain Bobby Cook got the Cyclones churning on the scoreboard with his 24^th of the season at 12:56 of the 1^st period. Steven Kerr and Ryan Horvat drew assists when Ryan’s attempt to redirect Steve’s left point shot hit Ryan and landed loose in front of the net. Booby swooped in to retrieve the loose puck away from the gathering of skates in front of the net and quickly slid it past a partially screened goaltender. Waterloo responded quickly at 14:49 when Auger forced a turnover inside the Cyclones blueline, grabbed the puck and fed Gibson for the quick release. Despite the Cyclones having a 14 to 5 shots on goal advantage over the Siskins both teams were tied at 1’s after 20 minutes of play.

 Early in the second period Waterloo quickly manufactured for a 2-1 lead for themselves at 2:39. This time a turnover at the Waterloo line created a 2 on 2 rush the other way, but the added hustle of a Waterloo player turned that into a 3 on 2 rush which resulted in the time and space needed to create the go ahead goal by Facey, with assists drawn by Fennell and Campagnolo. The Cyclones fortunes seemed to take another turn for the worse with a penalty call against them at 3:01 but avoided danger thanks to a huge save off the left pad of Gatlin Burt during a 3 on 1 power play rush; followed by a HUGE shorthanded goal by Brett Catto at 3:48. Using his Cyclonic hockey smarts and savvy, Brett forced a turnover inside the Waterloo blueline, grabbed the loose puck, evaded the checks of two Waterloo defenders, shot once and then quickly grabbed his own rebound and then beat the goal tender to score his 12^th of the season. SWEET!!!! Later in the same PK Catto set up Tyler Evoy on a 2 on 1 break but Tyler could not bat down the saucer pass and redirect it into the net. The Cyclones were obviously gaining some momentum as they finished the PK and then set about the task of taking the lead. The Cyclones buzzed the net and came close by hitting the post, but on the Waterloo rush that immediately followed, it was the Siskins who took a 3-2 lead at 5:43. Bishop and Gibson set up Waterloo captain Scott Nagy for the go ahead goal. Undaunted the Cyclones continued to work away and simply refused to cave in. At 11:01 the game was tied again when Pat Bell swooped around from behind the net with a wrap attempt from the right wing side; after Mac Nichol and Ryan Horvat worked the puck in deep behind the Waterloo net from the left wing side. The Siskins took a minor penalty at 11:44 and seconds after that penalty had expired, the game winning goal was scored at 13:49. Captain Bobby Cook was the set up man as he wired a text book tape - to - tape pass from the right wing corner onto the stick of Pat Bell who quickly buried it from about 15 feet away from the goal line. At 14:53 the game took turn into the rough and tumble when the Cyclones Jeff Bauer and Siskins tough guy defenceman Jacob Ariss put up their dukes in obvious disagreement over the shear brilliance of the Cyclones go ahead goal. Moments before, Bauer had laid a decent hit on Ariss inside the Waterloo zone, words were exchanged and punches thrown. Both players were assessed with “5 and a gameâ€Â� and were escorted off the ice. Boys will be boys. In the game deciding second period the Cyclones had 3 goals on 15 shots while the Siskins countered with 2 goals on 11 shots.

 To start the third period, the Cyclones were down 5 men to 3 for 10 seconds and 5 on 4 for 114 seconds but managed to avoid danger. From there on the Cyclones played a suffocating team defence and managed to keep Waterloo busy enough in their own end, aiming 10 shots at Marc Williams. Gatlin Burt turned away 7 Waterloo shots and both he and his teammates repelled Waterloo’s last minute charge with the goaltender pulled and 6 skaters on the ice.

 The win is the 22^nd of the season for the Cyclones and it helps them keep pace with the upper top 4 teams in the GOJHL Midwestern Conference and it helps them keep pace with 6^th place Kitchener who also won their Friday night game in a shoot out over the 1^st place Stratford Cullitons.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Pat Bell: Number 20 from Grand Valley scored the game tying and winning goals in the second period. When asked about his efforts after the game the sophomore forward’s reply was simple “You just get the puck and shoot it.â€Â� With words of wisdom like that, nothing more needs to be said other than “Well Done Pat.â€Â�

 2 Points - Ryan Horvat: Number 14 registered 2 assists in the game and was a constant presence / disturbance against the Siskins all game long whether it was on the PK, PP or at even strength.

 1 Point Each - Brett Catto & Captain Bobby Cook: Brett had a huge shorthanded goal in the second period and was another constant & Cyclonic menace all game long against the Siskins. Playing an inspired game Number 17 was literally getting in the face of the opposition, taking the body, causing turnovers and creating scoring chances for the Cyclones.

 Captain Bobby Cook also played an inspired and energetic game, registering the opening goal of the game and setting up Pat Bell for what turned out to be the eventual game winning goal. Number 16 continues to lead by example and the rest of his teammates are following suit.

 The Cyclones will continue to count on the contributions provided from every player on the roster and there will be plenty more games and opportunity for everyone to make their mark. No games can be taken lightly at this or any other point in the season. It will be very important for the Cyclones to stay focused on their game and execute the things that they need to do to stay successful.

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

The 3 game week end continues for the Cyclones on Saturday, January 22^nd when the Cyclones make their 3^rd appearance of the season at Galt Arena Gardens for a 7:00 p.m. match. On their previous 2 trips to the “Grand Old Lady on Shade Street� the Cyclones have not fared well, so the Cyclones look to make amends for that next week. Cambridge is mired in 7^th position but they have been on fire as of late, winning 6 of 7 since the Holiday break, so this will be a stern test for the Cyclones. Make the drive and support the Red, White & Black.

 Sunday afternoon at 1:30 p.m. the Cyclones are scheduled to do battle with arch rival Stratford Cullitons. This game marks the return of the Annual Teddy Bear Toss in support of the North Perth Hospice. The Cyclones also ask that you also lend your support to this very worthy and valued local organization. Please bring your stuffed bears and make sure that they are wrapped in a plastic covering of some sort so that the furry rascals can be easily picked up off the ice and then sent on their way to their destinations. Sunday is Milverton Minor Hockey Day and the Cyclones welcome the kids and the parents to Memorial Arena as their special guests to the game.

 The Cyclones are ready to continue their quest for success!!!! Are You???? Bleed Red, White & Black!! Go Cyclones Go!!!

Cyclones Earn 11-1 Win Over Grey's

Sunday, January 16^th, the Cyclones traveled north along Highway #6 to square off against the Greys at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre on the shores of Owen Sound.

 With 19 Cyclones in the lineup set to square off against 14 Greys the odds were already against the home squad before the drop of the puck. Playing their 3^rd game in as many days with a depleted line up and playing against a rested Cyclones squad was too much for the home side to bear.

 The Cyclones pumped 49 shots on both Owen Sound net minders to produce 11 goals while surrendering 1 goal on 14 shots at Gatlin Burt. The Cyclones were 2 for 4 on the PP and 6 for 6 on the PK.

 Ryan Horvat led the way in the scoring with 6 assists, Jeff Bauer registered 2G 3A, Captain Bobby Cook 1G 3A, Brandon Passley 3G, Tyler Evoy 2G 1A, Tanner Simpson and David Dalby each with 2A, Pat Bell 1G 1A, Spencer Turcotte and Brett McGuinness each with 1G, Blake Thompson, Jordan Leyser and Caleb Cameron each registered 1A.

 The score was 2-0 after 20 minutes and 6-0 after 40 minutes. Sam Paterson duked it out with Owen Sound’s #10 (Haylow) midway through the third period after a disagreement on who might win today’s NFL playoff games.

 The win is the 21^st of the season for the Red, White and Black; and after 37 games played they remain in 5^th place, trailing 4^th place Brantford by 6 points and 3^rd place Elmira by 8 points; and lead 6^th place Kitchener by 6 points with one game in hand on the Dutchmen.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Brandon Passley: Number 7 had a stellar effort, scoring his first three goals as a Cyclone to garner the hat trick. Brandon fits in very well as the veteran centre man between rookie wingers Brett Mc Guinness and David Dalby. The trio had a very effective and productive effort in this game and they look to build on that effort with another solid set of games next weekend.

 2 Points - Ryan Horvat: Number 14 led all Cyclones in scoring with 6 assists. The Simcoe native was a predominating presence in today’s game and he will be ready next weekend to do what he can to provide the veteran leadership needed to keep the Cyclones churning.

 1 Point - Jeff Bauer: Number 15 posted 2 G and 3 A in this game. Normally a 5 point night garners top billing in the Sleeman Standings but as mentioned earlier, today’s game was an embarrassment of riches for the Cyclones. Jeff continues to improve his offensive totals and he will be counted on to contribute hard work in all facets of the game as the season progresses.

 The Cyclones will continue to count on the contributions provided from every player on the roster and there will be plenty more games and opportunity for everyone to make their mark. No games can be taken lightly at this or any other point in the season. It will be very important for the Cyclones to stay focused on their game and execute the things that they need to do to stay successful.

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

Next week features another Cyclonic whirlwind of hockey action & noteworthy community charity events:

Friday night Waterloo visits Memorial Arena for a 7:30 p.m. rematch. Cyclones Corporate sponsor Oak Tree Financial will be holding their annual food drive so please come to the game, bring your non perishable donations to support this worthy cause and be entertained by another exciting showcase of Cyclones hockey.

 Saturday night the Cyclones make their 3^rd appearance of the season at Galt Arena Gardens for a 7:00 p.m. match. On their previous 2 trips to the “Grand Old Lady on Shade Streetâ€Â� the Cyclones have not fared well, so the Cyclones look to make amends for that next week. Cambridge is mired in 7^th position but they have been on fire as of late, winning 5 in a row since the Holiday break, so this will be a stern test for the Cyclones. Make the drive and support the Red, White & Black.

 Sunday afternoon at 1:30 p.m. the Cyclones are scheduled to do battle with arch rival Stratford Cullitons. This game marks the return of the Annual Teddy Bear Toss in support of the North Perth Hospice. The Cyclones also ask that you also lend your support to this very worthy and valued local organization. Please bring your stuffed bears and make sure that they are wrapped in a plastic covering of some sort so that the furry rascals can be easily picked up and then sent on their way to their destinations. This game is also Milverton Minor Hockey day as we welcome the players, coaches, parents, and fans from Milverton. The 1st intermission will feature a hockey match featuring some of the Milverton 'stars of tomorrow'.

 The Cyclones will be ready!! Will You?? Bleed Red, White & Black!! Go Cycs Go!!!

Cyclones Win Overtime Thriller, 4-3 Over Siskins

After the buzz created at the GOJHL trade deadline, the Cyclones settled back into the business of playing & winning hockey games as they prepare themselves for what will be fiercely competitive 2011 GOJHL Midwest Conference playoff run.

 To that end, on Friday, January 14^th; the Cyclones squeezed out a narrow 4-3 overtime victory against the hardworking and hard charging Waterloo Siskins. Friday was “Optimist Nightâ€Â� and the good vibes and good karma from this hardworking and valuable local volunteer organization obviously rubbed off on the Cyclones players and their fans. At the local and the provincial level, the Optimist Clubs do a great deal to support the activities of youth and children in the community. The Cyclones are pleased to welcome the Optimists and we are pleased to help them promote their many works in the community. A Cyclonic salute to the Optimist Clubs - YIPPEEE!!!

 The win is the 20^th of the season for the Red, White and Black; and after 36 games played, they remain in 5^th place, trailing 4^th place Brantford by 6 points and 3^rd place Guelph by 7 points. As of the morning of January 15^th, both the Cyclones and Brantford have played one less game than Guelph. 6^th place Kitchener trails by 4 points but have already played 38 games thus far.

 The OT victory marked the Cyclones debut for goaltender Anthony Peters, who turned aside 36 of 39 shots and for speedy forward Brandon Passley who made a Cyclonic impact up front on the penalty kill and in the overtime period. Welcome aboard to the Cyclones family!!!

 All Cyclones goals were scored at even strength as the Cyclones could not get much going on their 3 power play opportunities. Waterloo had even less to work with as they had two power plays but they were able to manufacture one goal with less than 3 minutes to play in the 3^rd period, thus forcing the extra overtime session. Credit the discipline of the coaches and players of both teams for focusing on playing a good game of hockey, and for ignoring the tactics of stunts, shenanigans and nonsense. Credit also the game officials who quickly recognized the effort that was being made by both teams to keep it clean; which allowed the flow of the game to proceed quickly with long stretches of time between whistles and stoppages.

 In the overtime, Jeff Bauer and Blake Thompson set up the winner, as Blake used his size, speed and Cyclonic savvy to break down the right wing side, cruise around behind the net, emerge on the left wing side; and from the left wing half boards Blake fed a tape – to - tape pass to the front of the net. At the receiving end, Captain Bobby Cook cleanly redirected the pass through the legs of Waterloo goaltender Justis Husak to secure the dramatic OT win at the 2:30 mark – exactly ½ way into the overtime period.

YIPPEEEE!!!!!

 In the first period of play, both teams were held scoreless as Waterloo outshot the home side by a 14 to 8 margin. The pace of play was brisk, with long stretches of time between stoppages. Both teams were locked in a defensive mode for the opening 20 minutes, as each team tried unsuccessfully to find a weakness in the other’s defensive schemes.

 In the second period both teams traded a goal apiece as the Cyclones held a narrow 15 to 12 shots on goal advantage. Waterloo scored first at 54 seconds when they created a neutral ice turnover and executed the counter strike play to perfection. (Auger from Gibson & Nagy). At 4:52 the Cyclones responded with a nifty counterstrike play of their own. Cyclones d-man Blake Thompson grabbed a loose puck in the Cyclones zone and quickly made a cross ice pass to d-man partner Sam Patterson. In what can only be described as a highlight reel play, Sam made a sick move to shrug off and freeze the fore checking Waterloo forward; followed by a crisp tape - to - tape pass from well behind his own blue line to Pat Bell just outside the Waterloo blueline. Pat roared in alone on Husak and made an equally impressive move and shot to tie the game. SWEET!! Excellent team work men!!!

 In the third period the Cyclonic teamwork continued. At the 4:04 mark, the Cyclones grabbed their 1^st lead of the game. Pat Bell got the puck deep into the Waterloo zone where Jeff Bauer controlled it behind the net and then he made the perfect feed to Captain Bobby Cook who was cruising in through the slot. Bobby’s first shot was stopped but he quickly grabbed his own rebound and then buried it top shelf. Waterloo was quick to reply with a goal at 6:35, using 2^nd and 3^rd effort to tie the game at 2’s (Pederson from Campagnolo and Facey). The Cyclones regained the lead at 15:48 when the forward trio of Bauer, Bell and Cook struck again. Once again Bell and Bauer got the puck in deep, this time with a high and hard shot that bounced off of Husak and landed in front of him. Amidst a scrum of players in front of the net, Bobby Cook was able to get his stick on the puck and slip it along the ice through the maze of players and into the net. The Siskins battled back and tied the game exactly 2:00 minutes later with their power play goal – a redirected left wing point shot that made its way in past a screened Anthony Peters. Waterloo held a 12 – 10 shots on goal advantage in the 3^rd period and with the score tied at 3’s both teams carefully played out the remaining 2:12 left to play in the 3^rd period, protecting their chances of gaining at least one point; before trying for the other point in overtime.

 In the OT session, the Cyclones dominated play with a 4 to 1 shots on goal advantage which ultimately resulted in the aforementioned game winner.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points - Bobby Cook: Number 16 had a stellar outing with the natural hat trick to up his season goals scored total to a team leading 22 for the season. Once again the team Captain led his troops by example.

2 Points – Pat Bell: Affectionately known by his mates as “Gary�, Number 20 was a force on the forward line with 1 G and 2 A. The Grand Valley native is second in team scoring but more importantly he continues to improve his overall defensive and offensive output as his season progresses.

 1 Point – Jeff Bauer: Number 15 chipped in with 3 assists and is fifth in team scoring. The Lambeth native is also finding himself in the midst of a good groove as he is also making an improved contribution to the Cyclones overall team effort. Keep up the hard work Jeff.

 Honorable mentions go to Anthony Peters for his performance inside the blue paint for the Cyclones, and for the strong work done by Cyclones D-men Sam Patterson and Blake Thompson who made notable contributions to the win. The Cyclones will continue to count on the contributions provided from every player on the roster and there will be plenty more games and opportunity for everyone to make their mark.

 Next up is some Sunday afternoon road action at 2:30 in the Harry Lumley Bayshore Complex against a vastly improved Owen Sound Greys squad. No games can be taken lightly at this or any other point in the season. It will be very important for the Cyclones to stay focused on their game and execute the things that they need to do to stay successful.

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

Next week features another Cyclonic whirlwind of hockey action & noteworthy community charity events:

 Friday night Waterloo visits Memorial Arena for a 7:30 p.m. rematch. Cyclones Corporate sponsor Oak Tree Financial will be holding their annual food drive so please come to the game, bring your non perishable donations to support this worthy cause and be entertained by another exciting showcase of Cyclones hockey.

 Saturday night the Cyclones make their 3^rd appearance of the season at Galt Arena Gardens for a 7:00 p.m. match. The previous 2 trips to the “Grand Old Lady on Shade Streetâ€Â� have not fared well, so the Cyclones look to make amends for that next week. Make the drive and support the Red, White & Black.

 Sunday afternoon at 1:30 p.m. the Cyclones are scheduled to do battle with arch rival Stratford Cullitons. This game marks the return of the Annual Teddy Bear Toss in support of the North Perth Hospice. The Cyclones also ask that you also lend your support to this very worthy and valued local organization. Please bring your stuffed bears and make sure that they are wrapped in a plastic covering of some sort so that the furry rascals can be easily picked up and then sent on their way to their destinations. This game is also Milverton Minor Hockey day as we welcome the players, coaches, parents, and fans from Milverton. The 1st intermission will feature a hockey match featuring some of the Milverton 'stars of tomorrow'.

 The Cyclones will be ready!! Will You?? Bleed Red, White & Black!! Go Cycs Go!!!

Cyclones Acquire Peters and Passley

Mike Brooks has been a busy man over the past week or so. A tireless worker, he has been making phone calls around the clock. His hard work has paid off as he has made some big additions to the Cyclone roster.

The Cyclones are thrilled to have picked up Anthony Peters from the Mississauga St. Michael's Majors and Brandon Passley from the Kitchener Dutchmen. Peters will join Gatlin Burt to give the Cyclones one of the strongest goaltending tandems in the GOJHL.  Passley, who was captain of the Dutchmen, will provide a great deal of grit, speed, and leadership.

The sad part of the pick ups is that someone had to go. It is sad to see Will Sibley depart as he is a terrific young man and a very good goaltender. He and his family will be missed but will always be considered as part of our Cyclone family. We wish Will and his family all the best and thank them for what they did for the Cyclones.

Be sure to fill the stands on Friday night as the Waterloo Siskins come to town. It is Listowel Optomist night and children 12 and under will get in for free. See you all there.

Go Cyclones Go!!!

Cyclones Leave Stoney Creek With 2-1 Win

Happy New Year Cyclones fans – Part Two!!

 The Cyclones definitely did not appear to have suffered any ill effects from their extended Holiday layoff or from having played the night before; as they utilized another solid team effort and this time they rode a 23 save performance from goaltender Will Sibley to defeat the Stoney Creek Warriors by a 2-1 score on Saturday, January 8^th at Valley Park Arena.

 This game was a defensive battle as both teams started out with a short bench and then played a very tight checking, physical and hardnosed match. The Cyclonic keys to victory # 19 of the season were strong goaltending by Will Sibley, an almost airtight 5 for 6 PK effort, and scoring both goals on the PP (2 for 9). Overshadowing all of that was a total team effort as every Cyclones player on the game roster did their job to secure an important road win and secure another badly needed two points.

 Both teams played a choppy opening 20 minutes – registering 6 shots on goal each; and both teams took a while to get acquainted with each others’ styles. The Cyclones upped their game in the 2^nd period by taking advantage of several second period penalties by the Warriors and their coaching staff. The father and son duo of Ric Nattress and Justin Natress both had their short fuses burned up by the game officials, and the Cyclones were only more than happy to take advantage of this k-nobbed-ness from the Nattress clan. The Cyclones scored twice on 13 shots while Will Sibley and the Cyclones d-men kept the home side count to just 5. Tyler Evoy scored his 11^th goal of the year at 4:15 when he redirected a hard and low point shot from Joel Bowman. Brett Catto drew the 2^nd assist on the goal. Jeff Bauer raised the stakes at 10:18 with his 10^th of the season, scoring on the rebound after he, Pat Bell and Jackson Martin swarmed the crease at close range in search of the power play goal. Both Bell and Martin drew assists.

 In the third period the Cyclones withstood the comeback push, turning aside 12 of 13 shots from the Warriors, as the black and gold opponents battled back to close the gap by 1 with their power play goal at 7:19. Both teams continued to battle hard within close quarters but the mighty Cyclones proved to be equal to the task. The win was perfectly preserved by some big time stops from Will Sibley late in the game, including 3 in a row with less than 10 seconds to play and with the enemy’s black and gold jerseys planted at the edge of the blue paint. Wow, what a finish!!!!!!!

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points - Will Sibley: Number 33 had a stellar outing and was the definite game saver when called upon; especially so in the late stages of the match. The Caledon native has proved once more this season that “Where there is a Will, then there is a Way for the Cyclones to Win�.

 2 Points - To the entire Cyclones blueline corps who suited up for this game and laid in all on the line for the “Wâ€Â�. They were led by Joel Bowman and Mac Nichol who both logged a ton of ice time but a large amount of the credit is also due to the tenacious and determined efforts made by Steven Kerr, Jordan Leyser, Sam Patterson and Blake Thompson.

 1 Point - To the entire Cyclones forward corps who suited up for this game. They also played hard and rugged at both ends of the rink against a tough and nasty Stoney Creek squad; and they had to endure the tribulations of some very sketchy officiating. While wishing no harm come to the offended player, but having said that, it is a rarity for the player offended by a head check major, to be able to get up and skate away under his power, then take his next shift and then continue to play, and then finish the game looking for the tying goal. There must be something very special in the Hamilton water supply that gives those players that extra get up and go power? Hmmm.

 Regardless, little things left by themselves remain little. Collectively, the Cyclones combined a lot of little things to produce another important victory on the road against a stingy, tough and unyielding opponent.

 Next up is some Friday night home ice action at 7:30 against Waterloo, followed by a Sunday 2:30 p.m. road game at the Lumley Bayshore Complex against a vastly improved Owen Sound Greys squad.

 The Cyclones will be ready!! Will You?? Bleed Red, White & Black!! Go Cycs Go!!!

Cyclones Start 2011 With a Strong Effort:4-1 Win Over Kitchener

Happy New Year Cyclones fans!!

 The Cyclones did not appear to have suffered any ill effects from their extended Holiday layoff as they utilized a solid team effort and rode a 36 save performance from goaltender Gatlin Burt to defeat the Kitchener Dutchmen by a 4-1 score on Friday, January 7^th.

 The Cyclones scored early to start the game and they used all of their tools and hockey smarts to grind out a very workmanlike effort against a Kitchener team that started slowly but were hard charging as the game wore on into the latter stages of the 3^rd period. The Cyclonic keys to victory # 18 of the season were strong goaltending by Gatlin Burt, an airtight 6 for 6 PK effort, getting the 1^st goal of the game and using the power play to score and widen the gap to 3-0 early into the 2^nd period. The Cyclones were 1 for 4 on the PP and registered 40 shots on goal against Dutchmen standout goaltender Duncan Long.

 After 34 games the Cyclones have 18 wins and 38 points, putting them 4 points ahead of Kitchener and thus solidifying the Cyclones hold on 5^th place in the Midwest Conference of the GOJHL. 4th place is 9 points away but with 17 games left to play, a top four finish is not totally out of the question.

 Tanner Simpson got the scoring started at the 44 second mark of the 1^st period with an unassisted goal. A Kitchener d-man shot the puck at Number 22’s shin pads; sending the disk off a startled Simpson and then past an equally startled keeper. The Red, White and Black upped their lead to 2-0 with an even strength goal at 17:19. Some hard work and good puck movement down low was used to capitalize on some weak defensive zone coverage by the Dutchmen. Tyler Evoy and Caleb Cameron conspired to set up Brett Catto for the weak side shot into the yawning cage. Some brisk play, some heavy hitting by Joel Bowman and Tanner Simpson and a14 to 6 shots on goal advantage by the Cyclones in the opening 20 minutes gave the home side the edge that they needed to set up the final 40 minutes of play.

  The Cyclones scored twice more in the second period on 14 shots, while Gatlin Burt continued to shine in the blue paint for the Cyclones, stopping all 13 shots that he faced in the middle 20 minute frame. Pat Bell scored his 17^th of the season on the power play after taking in Joel Bowman’s set up from the blue line; making the score 3-0 at 4:40. The Cyclones took a commanding 4-0 lead at 15:52 when Jeff Bauer hustled and won a loose puck battle behind the net before centering a pass into the hash marks for Spencer Turcotte. Big Number 27 rifled a shot and made no mistake as he ripped it over the trapper’s mitt of Duncan Long and into the mesh. On the defensive side of the ledger, Gatlin Burt was solid, the Cyclones defencemen were solid and the forwards were consistently covering the trailing forwards as they entered the zone but were denied the 2^nd and 3^rd scoring chances that they were looking for. The shots on goal were almost identical - 14 for Listowel and 13 for Kitchener.

 In the third period the Dutchmen really turned on the pressure and used three Cyclones minor penalties as a rallying point to gain the upper hand but all PP attempts were denied by the Cyclones. Only once could the Dutchmen penetrate the Cyclones armour – at 13:05 with an even strength goal that resulted from crashing the net with everything that moved. Kitchener blitzed the Cyclones with 18 shots while the Cyclones replied with 12 of their own; including 3 shots by David Dalby on a short-handed breakaway and 3 incredible saves by Duncan Long. Wow.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Gatlin Burt: Number 1 had another sterling game in the blue paint for the Cyclones, stopping 36 of 37 shots and keeping the momentum in the Cyclones favour all night long.

 2 Points - Joel Bowman: Number 6 registered 1A on the 3^rd goal and battled hard offensively as well as defensively. The Atwood native continues his fine season with more solid and dependable play on the Cyclones blueline.

 1 Point - Pat Bell: Number 20 answered the call with a power play goal and some steady two way play. The Grand Valley native is second on the team in the goals scored department with 17. The Cyclones and their fans look forward to more of the same effort from the big winger as the season wears on.

OHA-GOJHL Top Prospects Game- Jan 17th-Go To Events

Canada Vs. Russia

On Monday, January 3^rd, a squad of GOJHL Midwest Conference All Stars played an exhibition game against a squad of Russian Juniors at the Allman Arena in Stratford. Dubbed the “Russian Red Stars� the opposing force was large, they were fast and they had a nasty streak; featuring a roster wherein the vast majority were 19 years of age or older. The Midwest All Stars brought their own elements of size, speed, hustle and grit but could not match the power of an older and more experienced Russian squad. Final Score: Russia 11 – Good Guys 3. Credit the Midwest team for their courage, determination and their pride as they played hard and played extremely well against a powerful opposition.

 The Cyclones were capably and proudly represented by Captain Bobby Cook, Joel Bowman, Brett Catto and Mac Nichol. Bobby Cook was selected as Player of the Game for the GOJHL squad and played like a demon all game long, using his Cyclonic skills to the maximum at both ends of the rink. Bobby earned an assist on the rush that led to the 2^nd GOJHL goal.

 Not to be out done, Brett Catto had a terrific game and also earned an assist on the 2nd GOJHL goal. Brett took the pass from Bobby, broke into the zone on a 2on 1 rush, made a nifty/sick behind the back drop pass to Cambridge’s Brendan Muise, who sent the puck shelf – blocker side. YIPPEEEE!!!!!

 Defencemen Joel Bowman and Mac Nichol played in tandem like a pair of giants and both had a super strong game on the blueline. Mac used his OHL experience to the fullest as he battled hard against any player wearing an opposing jersey. Joel sent the Russians and the crowd into a spin with his tough nosed defence and his cannon styled slap shots. On one particular play Joel energized his team and the crowd by making a swift rush through the neutral zone, then a breathtaking zig zag through the Russian ‘dâ€Â� while crossing the blueline. One guy to beat but the red hot Russian goalie snared a crisp wrist shot that was destined for the top shelf. It was one of 44 saves made on 47 shots to secure Player of the Game honors for the Russian side.

 Notable GOJHL All Star performances were made by Erik Belanger of the Guelph Hurricanes (1G and lots of feisty play), Brantford’s Sam “Smash mouthâ€Â� Milligan (1A) for playing his usual style of bone crunching defence; and the Stratford Cullitons’ Steve Dol (1G) for duking it out with an offending Russian who mercilessly decked Joel Bowman from behind, sending Joel heavily into the boards – all with less than 6 minutes to play in the game.

 The game had shades of 1972, the 1987 Canada Cup Series and the Winter Olympics all jammed into 60 minutes of hockey.

 Congratulations to our Canadian young men who represented the GOJHL and to our Cyclones – Bobby, Joel, Brett and Mac, for their tremendous effort in this game.

 Cyclones Beat First Place Cullitons 4-1

On Sunday Dec 19^th, Captain Bobby Cook and his mates scrooged the Cullitons as they defeated their Perth County rivals by a 4 -1 score. Number 16 figured in the scoring of all of the Cyclones goals and the entire Cyclones line up was able to rebound with a strong effort after a tough outing against Elmira two days previous. All aspects of the Cyclones game were working in good order – the power play chipped in with 2 goals, the penalty killing was a solid 8 for 8, another strong goaltending effort was put forward by veteran Will Sibley and the team utilized an aggressive checking style in all 3 zones.

 The Cyclones scored the all important first goal of the game at the 11:56 mark of the first period with an unassisted marker from Bobby Cook. Inside the Stratford zone, the Captain won the faceoff at the right wing circle, then grabbed control of the loose puck and used his forward momentum to propel himself and the puck towards the net. The shot deflected high off the goal stick of Evan Groenestege and the puck had enough energy left to cartwheel in the air and fall into the cage. The Cyclones did a solid job of controlling the play by getting pucks deep into the Stratford zone, buzzing around the Cullitons net and by using some good puck movement to set up some good shots. Led by the efforts of Tanner Simpson & Ty Bilcke, the Red, White & Black also used the body check to their advantage as they tagged the Cullitons with some good hits in order to keep them off balance. The Cyclones outshot their guests 15 to 7 in the opening 20 minutes.

 In the second 20 minute set the Cyclones continued to take the initiative and dominated with their aggressive play through the neutral zone. As a result the Cullitons got into penalty trouble early and the Cyclones cashed in at 5:32 with a power play goal from Brett Catto. Joel Bowman worked the breakout pass to Bobby Cook, who then used his speed to shift through open ice, and then his skill to dangle his way into the zone before he unloaded a hard, low shot. Brett was stationed at the left wing side and had time and space to slip the rebound into the open side of the net for a 2-0 lead. Midway through the second period, the momentum of the game shifted to the Cullitons, as the Cyclones found themselves in penalty trouble for the rest of the period. The Cyclones managed to kill off all of their penalties, including some masterful 5 on 3 PK work; but the resulting puck control and pressure eventually led the Cullitons only goal of the game – an even strength marker at 17:26 (Jared Culliton from Chet Binning and Mitch McIntosh). Stratford held the upper hand with shots on goal in the period by a margin of 14 to 10.

 In the third period the Cyclones were able to put the game out of reach and secure the home ice win with two more goals. Joel Bowman worked the puck up the right wing boards to Bobby Cook and from the Cullitons side of centre ice; Bobby directed the puck deep into the right wing corner.  It was a harmless looking “dump-inâ€Â� play but the Cullitons defence was slow to react and it allowed Jeff Bauer to poke the slip in untouched and poke the puck past everyone including the goaltender at 4:07. The Cyclones clinched the victory with their 2^nd power play goal at the 11:04 mark. The goal featured more strong puck movement and positioning by the Cyclones power play. From the right point Joel Bowman worked the puck down low to Tyler Evoy, who then made a smart and crisp pass to the far side, where Bobby Cook took the pass cleanly and then quickly swept it over the goal line. The Cullitons tried to battle back but were turned away by a feisty and stingy defensive effort by the Cyclones. Steven Kerr and Mitch McIntosh checked out of the game early at the 4:46 mark, when they dropped gloves at the side of the Cyclones net to personally exchange tidings of Good Cheer. Later on in the period, Mac Nichol and Ray Huether bumped and jostled as they exchanged Holiday Greetings along the end boards, and with less than 5 minutes to go, Sam Paterson and Steve Dol locked horns, comparing Christmas lists and such. Both teams exchanged 7 shots on goal in the final 20 minutes of play.

 The win was the 17^th of the season for the Cyclones and after 33 games played so far, the Red, White and Black find themselves in 5^th place with 36 points in the Midwest Conference of the GOJHL Midwest Division. With 18 games left in the schedule, the Cyclones trail 4^th place 7 points, so there is still time left to move up in the standings before the playoff fever of March Madness sets in.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Bobby Cook: Number 16 had another productive game, scoring 2G and adding 2A. The Cyclones Captain currently leads the team in scoring with 19G and 23A.

 2 Points - Jeff Bauer: Number 15 scored his 9^th goal of the year at a crucial time in the game. Jeff’s goal helped his team to retake the initiative and to restore the Cyclones 2 goal lead early in the 3^rd period. Jeff also played well defensively and he contributed with some physical play as well, demonstrating a complete game effort.

 1 Point - Tyler Evoy: Number 11 had 1A in this game and played well at both ends of the ice, making some good plays on offence and doing his job to hustle back to mark his checks and control loose pucks in the defensive zone. More of the same style of play will be needed from the veteran Sault Ste. Marie forward as the season progresses.

 After the game, the players, coaches, parents, executive and volunteers enjoyed a Cyclonic meal and enjoyed sipping on some Holiday cheer graciously served up by General Neabel and his brigade of festive beverage troopers.

 The next league game will be at home on Friday, January 7^th against the 6^th place Kitchener Dutchmen. This will be an intense “4 pointâ€Â� game as the scrappy Dutchmen are in 6^th place and are not far behind in the standings. On Saturday, January 8^th, the Cyclones will travel to Stoney Creek to take on the Warriors. Coached by former NHL blueliner Ric Natress, the Warriors have a good team and they are capable of playing it tough as well as playing with some finesse. Either way, Coach Natress demands that his Warriors team play hard; so in turn Coach Williams will be looking to have his Cyclones fired up and ready to play hard for a full 60 minutes.

 MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!

 BLEED RED, WHITE & BLACK - GO CYCLONES GO!!!

SugarKings Take Home Well Deserved 8-4 Win

From The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the Living English Language:

Flat, adjective: without interest; dull; lifeless, having no shine or gloss, deflated,

 The Cyclones first 20 minutes of this game can officially be added to the encyclopedic dictionary definition.

 After 20 minutes 4 goals were surrendered on 11 Elmira shots. Early in the 1^st period of this game Gatlin Burt made a glittering glove save on a right wing breakaway but shortly after that the whole show went sideways in a hurry. Undisciplined might best describe the remainder of this contest. There were glimmers of hope for the Cyclones to climb back into contention, but those glimmers faded when untimely penalties littered the pathway towards completing a comeback attempt.

 Having watched the Cyclones play so well in their three previous games this one was definite difficult to digest. The Cyclone lost a splendid chance to move within 4 points of 4^th place and now remain in 5^th place, a full 8 points out of the next spot in the Midwest Division.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Steven Kerr: Number 23 laid out a solid hit at center ice in the 1^st period and in the 3^rd period he roofed a sick wrist shot, high glove for his 1^st Junior B goal. This was as pretty as a 1^st goal should be and more. He took an unselfish pass from Jeff Bauer inside the blue line, cruised along the right wing and from about the face off dot he let it fly and buried the biscuit on a text book scoring play. Good work Steve.

 2 Points - Will Sibley: Number 1 appeared in relief of Gatlin Burt after Elmira made it 3-0 at the 13:21 mark of the 1^st period. If not for a very gutsy relief effort, making multiple saves at multiple times during the game, the goals against would have easily spiraled into a double digit disaster for the Cyclones.

 Next up – a 1:30 Sunday matinee at Memorial Arena against the 1^st place Cullitons (another war on ice); followed by the Cyclones annual Christmas Potluck meal (an assault on the buffet table). Cyclones fans are invited to join in and enjoy the fun.

 BLEED RED, WHITE & BLACK - GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Cyclones Solid In 5-3 Win In Elmira

Less than 24 hours after storming into Brantford on Saturday, December 11^th and emerging with a 4 -2 win, the Cyclones tore into Elmira on Sunday afternoon. The Cyclones spun away with another hard fought road win: a 5 -3 triumph at the expense of the 4^th place Sugar Kings. The team did themselves and their uniform proud as this game was another total team effort by the Red, White and Black. It displayed the ability of the Cyclones to use all of their bench strength in order to shut down and outsmart the scrappy and rowdy Elmira line up. The home side tried to use their usual tactics of intimidation and verbal jabbering but the Cyclones would not be intimidated and in response they dished out some physical punishment and verbal barbs of their own.

 The Cyclones secured their 16^th win of the season using a mix of strong goaltending, good team defensive play and timely power play goals. In the blue paint the Cyclones Gatlin Burt earned his second win in as many starts, turning away 38 of 41 shots. The Cyclones defensive corps and forward lines disrupted and limited Elmira’s ability to move freely from offence to defence. The Cyclones offence unloaded 36 shots at Matt Smith and the Elmira goal. The Cyclones PP was clicking again - this time at a 3 for 7 pace; and the Cyclones PK was a perfect 4 for 4. Cyclones penalty killers Brett Catto and Ryan Horvat were at it again causing havoc, disruption and chaos, distracting Elmira to the point of frustration.

 The Cyclones took the initiative by scoring the first goal of the game on the power play at 7:01 of the 1^st period. Caleb Cameron rapped in a rebound after Bobby Cook and Pat Bell were swarming the crease with shots. The Cyclones started strong and clung to their lead throughout the rest of the period as Elmira found their skating legs and started pushing back with chances of their own. Elmira had 13 shots on goal vs. 10 from Listowel.

 In the second period the Sugar Kings tied the game with an even strength goal at 55 seconds. A 2 on 1 chance developed from a neutral zone turn over. Gatlin Burt made the first two saves but could not stop the 3^rd shot. The goal sent bears into the air for the annual Sugar Kings teddy bear toss. The home fans had more to cheer about at 4:11 when a screen shot from the left point hit the twine for a 2-1 Elmira lead. Elmira was pushing hard and the Cyclones seemed to be flat after being outshot 8-1 after 5 minutes of play. The Cyclones came alive with a good shift by David Dalby, Ty Bilcke and Spencer Turcotte; who used good defensive work to produce good offensive chances. On a separate play, a lead pass to Brett Catto resulted in a dash to the net and drew a slashing penalty. On the ensuing face off, Captain Bobby Cook won the draw, directing the puck back to the point where Mac Nichol unloaded a shot and Caleb Cameron snapped in the loose puck. The Cyclones continued to concentrate on shutting down the Elmira attack and their patience and persistence paid off at 10:33. Jeff Bauer and Brett Mc Guinness teamed up to force a turn over inside the Elmira zone, and fed the puck to a wide open Tyler Evoy. Number 11 sped in switching from forehand to back hand before smoothly sliding the puck past a sprawling Matt Smith in the Elmira crease. S-W-E-E-T!! Late in the second period the Cyclones upped their lead to a 4-2 margin with their 3^rd power play goal of the game. After Brett Catto came within inches of having his shot dribble in, Mac Nichol and Joel Bowman regained control of the puck before Captain Bobby Cook’s short side shot deflected off the goal stick of Matt Smith and in.

  In the third period the Cyclones fastened their seatbelts for another intense period of hockey. Elmira scored early at 1:57 and looked ready to complete the comeback. The Cyclones would have nothing to do with that as they put on a clinic on protecting the lead and neutralizing the opposition attack. The PK units continued to offer stiff resistance and cause havoc with Elmira’s power play. The forward lines continued to work hard on the fore check and make some sneaky dashes to the Elmira net. The defensive corps of Joel Bowman, Mac Nichol, Steven Kerr, Blake Thompson, Jordan Leyser and Brett Brophy continued to bounce the Elmira forwards around along the boards and in the crease area. Gatlin Burt continued to challenge the shooters and repelled all shots directed his way. At 18:44 Captain Bobby Cook sealed the win with an unassisted empty net goal. YIPPEEEE !!!!!!!!!!

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 4 Points - Gatlin Burt: Number 1 was instrumental once again in the win turning aside 38 of 41 shots and once again he kept things on an even keel in the blue paint. Timely saves kept momentum within the Cyclones grasp throughout the game.

 4 Points - Captain Bobby Cook: Number 16 led all Cyclones scorers with 2 G & 2A and did another good job in the faceoff circle for the Cyclones.

 3 Points - Caleb Cameron: Number 10 got the Cyclones into the game early, scoring 2 G on the PP and supplemented that by adding some hustle and energy with blocked shots and hard work on the fore check.

 2 Points – Awarded to the rest of the Cyclones game roster for bringing every ounce of energy, skill and spirit that they had to the rink; bleeding Red, White & Black all over the ice, battling hard in their 3^rd game in less than 72 hours and their 4^th game in 5 days. Excellent work Men!!!!!!

 Next up – a Friday night home ice rematch against Elmira (this will be nothing short of a war on ice). Then a 1:30 Sunday matinee at Memorial Arena against the 1^st place Cullitons (another war on ice); followed by the Cyclones annual Christmas Potluck meal (an assault on the buffet table). Cyclones fans are invited to join in and enjoy the fun.

 BLEED RED, WHITE & BLACK - GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Cyclones 4-2 Over Brantford

The Cyclones stormed into Brantford on Saturday, December 11^th to tangle with the 2^nd place Golden Eagles and after all was said and done it was the Red, White & Black who emerged from the Civic Centre with a hard fought and well earned 4 – 2 victory. The win is the 15^th of the season for the Cyclones and it was a total team effort as all hands were on deck from the opening face - off to the final buzzer. This game marked the first regular season start for goaltender Gatlin Burt who was superb in turning away 35 of 37 enemy shots. The Cyclones offence hammered 37 shots on goal at Stephen Heming and enjoyed a success rate of 2 for 5 on the power play. Defensively the PK unit was a stellar 9 for 10. The game also marked the return of Blair Goss to the Cyclones line - up, who was called in from the Wingham Ironmen to help bolster the line up for this game.

 The Golden Eagles jumped to an early 2-0 lead with an even strength goal at 1:47 by a fleet footed Mike Ryan, followed by a power play goal at 10:09 from a screened shot slapped in by Dylan Walker. The Cyclones responded quickly at 11:29 when Spencer Turcotte and David Dalby worked the puck deep into the zone. Tyler Evoy made the first shot and then slapped in his own rebound from a sharp angle at the left wing side of the net. The Cyclones continued their counter attack hitting most everything in a black and gold trimmed uniform. Much to the chagrin of the Brantford coaching staff a Golden Eagles power play was foiled by the clever and energetic work of the Cyclones. This frustration was raised to a boil when the Golden Eagles took two consecutive penalties late in the period. The Cyclones capitalized with a 5 on 3 power play goal that trickled over the goal line just a split second before the first period buzzer sounded. The Brantford coach flipped out and was ejected by the game officials as the Cyclones celebrated Mac Nichol’s goal, which was assisted by Captain Bobby Cook and Brett Catto.

 In the second period both teams continued a scoreless see- saw battle. This time it was the Cyclones turn to digest some rather sketchy calls made by the officials. Nonetheless, the Cyclones persevered and survived unscathed.

 The decisive blows were registered in the third period of the game. Gatlin Burt and the Cyclones defensive corps continued to shut out the Golden Eagles. Meanwhile, on offence the Cyclones continued to use their speed, hustle and energy to engineer more good scoring chances.  Midway through the final period, a lazy hooking penalty in the offensive zone by the Golden Eagles set the scene for the Cyclones to take the lead. On the ensuing power play, Mac Nichol set up Brett Catto for a powerful blast from the left wing half boards, and the puck found its way through traffic and into the twine behind a helpless Brantford goaltender. From that point forward, the Cyclones suffocated the Golden Eagles attack and with 13 seconds left Brett Catto set up Ryan Horvat for the empty net goal that sealed the win. YIPPEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points – Gatlin Burt: Number 1 was instrumental in the win turning aside 35 of 37 shots and kept things on an even keel in the blue paint. The formula for a winning strategy in hockey includes good goaltending. Gatlin earned full credit for answering the challenge and making his contribution to the win.

 2 Points – Brett Catto: Number 17 had 1G and 2A in the game and was effective in creating several other good scoring chances. In addition, Brett was very good on the PK by disrupting the opposition’s ability to get their power play set up; and in so doing, helping to create some short - handed scoring chances for the Cyclones.

 1 Points Each– Mac Nichol & Ryan Horvat:  Number 8 had 1G and 1A and number 14 had 1G in the game. Mac continued to help carry the load at both ends of the ice while Ryan worked tirelessly on the PK, the PP and at even strength. Both players did their part to make a decisive contribution to the victory.

 Credit the entire Cyclones line up and coaching staff for a job well done in coming from behind on the road to take this game. Not even the wilting ice of the Brantford Civic Centre could deny the Cyclones of the victory on this evening.

 BLEED RED, WHITE & BLACK - GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Rockets Edge Cyclones 6-4

After a mid week win in Owen Sound, the Cyclones had to step back into reality against a talent laden Strathroy Rockets squad from the Western Conference of the GOJHL. The Cyclones put forth a good battle but could not match the scoring of the Rockets, falling short by a 6 – 4 margin.

 The Cyclones pumped 43 shots on former Guelph Hurricanes goalie Chris Mc Dougall meanwhile the Rockets blasted off 46 shots at Will Sibley. All goals were scored at even strength as neither team’s special teams were able to produce any points – Cyclones were 0 for 7 on the PP and the Rockets were 0 for 3. Credit both teams for playing a close and aggressive checking style while a man down. Strathroy’s overall team speed gave them the edge in this game as they had the ability to apply a quick counter attack after sustained pressure by the Cyclones offence.

 The Rockets launched the scoring with an even strength goal at 1:16 produced by a left wing rush – Nap from Easter and Sherry. The Cyclones responded with a 4 on 4 goal from Joel Bowman at 14:07. Ryan Horvat and Brett Catto worked the puck deep behind the net before passing out front where number 6 could tee it up and crank a shot through traffic and into the twine. 1-1. The Rockets quickly regained the lead at 16:16 when an attempted pass from behind the Cyclones net was cut off at the blue line by Duarte and fired back at the Cyclones goal through a partial screen.

 The Rockets upped their lead to 3-1 at the 49 second mark of the second period when the visitors used their speed to create 2 on 1 break through the neutral zone and make a play that could not be defended. (Bryden from Milner). The Cyclones regrouped and drew within 1 at 3:39. Caleb Cameron and Pat Bell worked the puck in deep behind the goal line before Mac Nichol found his way to the front of the net, took a short pass and roofed a 10 foot shot before the puck could settle on the tape of his stick. The Cyclones continued to attack for the tying goal and for the most part were able to choke off the quick outlet pass that Strathroy was trying to make through the neutral zone in order to generate an odd man rush the other way. Both teams traded scoring chances as the period wore on and Strathroy continued to apply some good fore checking pressure but the Cyclones were able to counter with some good puck movement of their own to break that pressure. The Cyclones tied the game at 16:17 using a play identical to the previous scoring play. This time Ryan Horvat and Brett Catto got the puck deep behind the goal line and worked it lose to Mac Nichol who roofed another shot high to the glove side on Mc Dougall.

 Both teams continued to trade chances in the third period until Strathroy emerged with a goal at 8:42 Milner from Bryden and Craig put the Rockets back into the lead, as they worked a 3 man rush to perfection, forcing the Cyclones to backpedal hard back after the puck was turned over at the Strathroy zone. The Cyclones continued to apply pressure in the offensive zone but once again Strathroy was able to gain control of the puck and send it the other way. The Rockets worked the puck deep into the zone, eluding various Cyclones checks along the way, before knocking in a back hand shot at the edge of the blue paint at 11:29 – Field from Monague and Duarte. With 6:01 left there was a flurry of extra activity in the right wing corner of the Rockets zone. Jeff “Bad Guyâ€Â� Bauer finished his check but did so too aggressively as he crunched his man from behind along the boards and was assessed a 2 minute check from behind penalty. Number 28 Giiweedin Kakegabon took a run at Bauer from behind, dropped his mitts and went ballistic. The end result was a Cyclones 2 minute power play in which the home squad buzzed the net and with Will Sibley out of the net part way through, the 6 on 4 attacks came devilishly close to scoring but an open shot from the weak side was fanned on and harmlessly dribbled wide. After the power play the Cyclones tried again with an empty net but the Rockets scored at 17:30 – Lahsbrook from Campbell and Lightfoot.

Caleb Cameron scored for the Cyclones at 18:55 (assisted by David Dalby) but it was too late for the home side to salvage anything further beyond that point.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points – Will Sibley: Number 33 gave his team a chance to win stopping 40 of 45 shots. With the Cyclones down 3 -1, Will held firm until the Cyclones could tie the score in the 2^nd period before the issue was eventually decided in the 3^rd period.

 2 Points – Mac Nichol: Number 8 and home town hero turned his game up a couple notches by scoring twice and sparking a comeback rally for his team. The team will continue to look for more spirited efforts from Mac as the December rush of games is played out.

 1 Point Each – Brett Catto & Ryan Horvat: Both Number 17 and Number 10 had 2 assists each and did a lot of work down low, in the corners and in front of the net to create scoring chances. Added to this was another steady effort by both forwards on the penalty killing unit. Both forwards are working well together as of late so Cyclones fans should keep an eye on them to see what they will do next.

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:
- Tonight the Cyclones had the pleasure of welcoming the Listowel Tykes who put on yet another dazzling display of entertaining end to end action. Look for some exciting Cyclones prospects to emerge from this group of keen youngsters.

 - A reminder that the “Cyclones Big Ticketâ€Â� draw is underway for another year. 7 Cyclonic prizes can be won and at $10.00 a ticket or 3 for $20.00 this makes for a nifty Christmas stocking stuffer.

 - Next Up: Saturday night in Brantford – puck drops at 7:30 p.m. at the Civic Centre. Let’s hope the ice does not melt before the game is over.

 BLEED RED, WHITE & BLACK - GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Bauer Scores 3 In 8-1 Win Over Owen Sound

On Wednesday, December 8^th / 2010 the Cyclones put on their snow tires and headed north on Highway 6 to the shores of Georgian Bay for a match against the Owen Sound Greys. The Cyclones made the trip to the Harry Lumley Bayshore Centre pay with an 8 – 1 pounding of the Greys.

 Will Sibley earned the win in goal stopping 28 of 29 shots, the PP was 2 for 8 and the PK was 8 for 9. The Cyclones offence unloaded a total of 39 shots on two Owen Sound goaltenders and was led in scoring by Jeff Bauer with 3G ( 1 shorthanded and 2 PP). Ryan Horvat had a shorthanded goal, and on even strength goals were registered by Caleb Cameron, Spencer Turcotte, Tanner Simpson and Ty Bilcke. The assists were spread out to Pat Bell and Joel Bowman with 2 each, and single helpers to Brett McGuinness, Blake Thompson, Ty Bilcke, Tyler Evoy, Mac Nichol, Steven Kerr and Jordan Leyser.

 The win is the 14^th of the season for the Cyclones as they remain locked in 5^th place in the 9 team Midwest Conference of the GOJHL. The Cyclones have 30 points from 14 Wins, 12 Losses and 2 Shoot Out Losses.

 The Cyclones look ahead to a 3 game week end, starting Friday night at home against a powerful Strathroy Rockets squad before taking to the road again for games in Brantford and Elmira on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon respectively.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points – Jeff Bauer: Number 15 led the Red, White & Black with 3 G upping his season total to 8 to go along with 12 helpers in 28 games this season. Jeff will be relied upon for timely goals and added depth as the season wears on.

 2 Points – Pat Bell: Number 20 had 2 assists for the Cyclones and was a force on the PK squad in this game. The Grand Valley native has become a play maker of late, balancing his 16 goals with 13 assists for 29 points in 28 games. Cyclones fans look for more of the same effort from the big forward this weekend.

 1 Point – Jackson Martin: Number 7 answered the call – up for the Cyclones with another steady and determined effort on the forward lines. Jackson has good size and speed and he applies himself well with lots of energy and hustle on every shift.

 Next Up – Friday at home against the Strathroy Rockets; the puck drops at 7:30 p.m. – so be there or be square.

 BLEED RED, WHITE & BLACK - GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Cyclones Play Well But Lose 3-2 to Brantford

The Cyclones put forth a valiant and disciplined effort on Dec 03^rd against the Brantford Golden Eagles but fell short of victory by a narrow 3-2 margin at Memorial Arena. In the aftermath of Game #27 of the regular season schedule, it brings about another glass half full / glass half empty analogy for the home town Red, White & Black.

 One positive was that the Cyclones kept the goals against down to 3 (the team’s Goals Against Average heading into this game was 3.57). The shots against were high at 44 but Will Sibley was strong in net turning away several tricky and dangerous shots from the Brantford snipers. The Cyclones were not shy about shooting the puck themselves, pelting former Welland Junior Canadians goaltender Kari Rikkoken in the Brantford net with 50 shots. Full marks are given to the Cyclones for the offensive efforts that were made but the obvious downside is that the Cyclones could not bury their chances. The Cyclones special teams were 2 for 2 on the PK but a 0 for 4 showing on the power play also played a factor in the outcome of this game. If not for slow starts to both the first and second periods, the Cyclones would have stood a better chance for the win and a better end result for their evening’s work.

 In the first 10 minutes of the 1^st period the Cyclones appeared slow footed and on their heels, relative to the hard charging and non- stop attack of the Eagles. At the 7:10 mark of the first period the Eagles had a quick 2-0 lead and it looked like they were putting themselves in a position to make this a blow out. To their credit the Cyclones stormed back in the second half of the 1^st period to tie the game up at 2 goals each. Ty Bilcke and Jeff Bauer were credited with assists on Blake Thompson’s goal at 15:22. The puck was rattled out from behind the net and along the right wing boards to the blue line. With Bilcke creating traffic in front of the net, Number 4 gathered the puck in, teed up the shot and hammered a dropping blast that fooled Rikkoken. 2 minutes and 7 seconds later, Brett Catto tied the game. After driving hard into the zone along the left wing side, Number 17 quickly made a nice and hard cut to the inside and snapped a hard, low shot, using the backpedalling defender as a partial screen. Ryan Horvat assisted on the play and Number 14 is given full credit for keeping the puck inside the offensive zone after having made an unforced error that turned the puck over to Brantford. Ryan kept hustling hard and corrected his mistake by forcing the Brantford defender to turn the puck back over to him, and then Ryan made the clean pass to Catto who was crossing into the zone with a burst of speed.

 The eventual game winning goal was scored at 1:22 of the second period when an unattended Brantford forward was stationed at the far post and had all the time and space he needed to tap in a one foot rebound off of Will Sibley. Once again, it took the Cyclones until the second half of the second period to really get going and mount a consistent offensive attack inside the Brantford end. Some mental mistakes with icing and offside squashed a pair of good scoring plays in the second period. When the Cyclones did get into offensive gear and when they were actually buzzing the Brantford net they could not find the finishing touches needed to tie the score. A nice lead pass split the Brantford “Dâ€Â� and set up  Brett Catto with a breakaway from the Brantford blue line, but Number 17 was stopped by the pad of Rikkoken as Catto could not lift the puck over it during this scoring attempt. Various other shots and scrambles around the net created loose puck situations but the Cyclones’ sticks could not always connect. When they did connect, the shots whistled wide, or they were stopped, blocked or deflected out of harm’s way.

 The Cyclones had a strong third period from start to finish and came agonizingly close to a tying marker but could not get it done. Brantford had 35 shots on goal after 40 minutes but obviously shifted into defensive mode, registering only 9 shots on goal in the 3^rd period. The Cyclones adjusted quickly to Brantford’s change to defensive tactics, registering 17 shots on goal of their own. Inside the final minute, with Will Sibley on the bench in favor of an extra attacker, the Cyclones had scored but the joy was short lived when the officials ruled that a high stick was used to knock the puck in. Such was the fate of the Cyclones for Game #27 of the regular season.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points – Will Sibley: Number 33 gave his team a chance to win stopping 41 of 44 shots. Will continues to regain his form and in this game he gave his team another steady effort in the blue paint. Will is counted upon to deliver a consistent and competitive effort game in and game out for the remainder of the season.

 2 Points – Brett Catto: Number 17 registered 1G, had some good scoring chances, created an equal number of good scoring chances using his hockey smarts and drew penalties with his hustle. Similar to Will Sibley, but in the offensive zone, Brett will be counted on to do more of what he does best during the 2^nd half of the regular season.

 1 Point – Caleb Cameron: Number 10 was a consistent contributor for the Cyclones by putting forth a determined effort in all 3 periods of play. Caleb had an energetic effort, using his speed and skills and some bump and grind play to help get himself into the open and to help make plays for his team mates. More of this same effort in future games will elevate the Cyclones compete level and it will give the other teams something more to worry about in the Cyclones attack.   

The next game action for the Cyclones will be Wednesday, December 8^th when they take a trip to the North Pole, er, ummm, Owen Sound for a 7:30p.m. start against the Greys. Owen Sound won their last game against Kitchener, so the Cyclones will need to come out flying with a good start against a feisty and fired up Owen Sound squad.

 This game kicks off an intense schedule of 7 games in 12 days for the Cyclones before the GOJHL goes on hiatus for the Holidays.

 On the 10^th the Cyclones are at home to take on the talented and deadly Strathroy Rockets, then on the 11^th they travel to Brantford for 7:30 p.m., on the 12^th they are in Elmira for 2:00 p.m., on the 14^th they travel to Forest for 8:00 p.m. to take on the scrappy and improving Lambton Shores Predators, Elmira returns to Listowel on the 17^th at 7:30 p.m. and to cap it off the Cullitons visit Memorial Arena at 1:30 p.m. on the 19^th.

 The next couple of weeks will be another stern test for the Cyclones but the coaching staff and the players of the big Red, White & Black machine will be ready.

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:
- Tonight the Cyclones had the pleasure of welcoming students, staff and parents from Elma Public School as their special guests .The Listowel Cyclones thank the students, staff and parents for their part in another successful home game. The Cyclones look forward to seeing you again very soon.

 - During the first period intermission of tonight’s game the Listowel Tykes put on a dazzling display of entertaining end to end action. Look for some exciting Cyclones prospects to emerge from this group of keen youngsters.

 - The December 10^th home game will also feature another wave of Listowel Tykes hockey during the first period intermission, so if you missed this week, you have 1 more chance coming up.

 - A reminder that the “Cyclones Big Ticketâ€Â� draw is underway for another year. 7 Cyclonic prizes can be won and at $10.00 a ticket or 3 for $20.00 this makes for a nifty Christmas stocking stuffer.

 BLEED RED, WHITE & BLACK - GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Go Cyclones Go!!!

 

Cyclones Win 7-4 Thriller In Battle Of Hwy 86

The Cyclones & Elmira Sugar Kings tangled for the 3^rd time this season on November 26^th and it was the Cyclones who emerged victorious with a feisty and emotionally charged 7 – 4 home ice decision. Both teams were playing some “in your face, smash mouth hockey� as they engaged each other in a pitched physical battle for a full 60 minutes. To the casual observer, this game may have seemed rowdy, off the wall and more than a little nuts. In reality it was another “normally intense� encounter between two very spirited Highway 86 rivals. The Cyclones won this game by “getting themselves dirty� with some good hard physical play in the corners and in front of the nets; and coupled that with some strong goal tending, some dogged defensive hustle and some timely offensive thrusts. Elmira took the flow out of their own game with numerous chippy and cheap shot penalties. The Cyclones were more than happy to take advantage of the gifts given to them and gladly beat Elmira at their own game. The Cyclones outshot Elmira by a 40 – 32 margin, went 2 for 11 on the PP and were 4 for 6 on the PK.

 The first period was relatively quiet with less focus on hitting and more focus on skating, play making  and fore checking. The Cyclones outshot their foes by a 12-8 margin but neither team registered a goal in the opening 20 minutes. Will Sibley made a nice gloved stab on a hard rising shot that was labeled for the top corner. Both teams were assessed 3 minor penalties each in what was a warm up for the 2^nd period theatrics that would take place.

 The Cyclones scored 34 ticks into the second period when good work by the forward line of Caleb Cameron, Bobby Cook and Pat Bell produced tangible results for the Red, White & Black. Caleb forced an Elmira turnover, moved the puck to Captain Bobby Cook who then threaded the needle with a nice cross ice pass to the tape of Pat Bell. Big Number 20 smoothly converted the pass, depositing the puck 5 – hole on Matt Smith. 10 seconds later, the Cyclones were penalized for kneeing but escaped the power play unscathed. Then it was Elmira’s turn to make a steady trip to the penalty box, featuring a 4 minute stretch of 5 on 3but the Cyclones could not cash in. Will Sibley was sharp with the glove hand when a dangerous short - handed shot was aimed at the Cyclones net. Predictably, the Sugar Kings were elated and upped the ante with more rough stuff, drawing a Cyclones slashing penalty, followed by a duel of dukes between the Cyclones Jordan Leyser and Elmira’s Cass Frey. Leyser gave Frey all that he could handle and more – filling in with several shots. Both players tumbled to the ice in a heap were eventually separated and escorted off the ice, no worse for wear. Boys will be Boys. Having drawn the initial penalty, Elmira went to work on the PP and cashed in at 10:39. Elmira resumed their chippy play recording 3 stick fouls (2 cross checks & 1 high stick) and a hooking call all in a span of 2 minutes and 14 seconds. This time the Cyclones answered the bell and scored 2 power play goals in a span of 48 seconds. At 13:49 Joel Bowman was set up by Mac Nichol and Pat Bell, unleashed a top cheese rocket with traffic in front of Matt Smith. At 14:38 some good puck movement by Pat Bell and Brett Catto resulted in a loose puck scramble at the edge of the blue paint, where Captain Bobby Cook rapped in the loose disk. And the crowd went wild!!!!. Undaunted the Sugar Kings battled back and closed the gap to 3-2 with a goal at 19:14 of the 2^nd period. Feeling pretty good about themselves the Sugar Kings attacked the Cyclones zone for more but were denied by Will Sibley and the Cyclones defense. The low point of the game came after the 2^nd period buzzer when Elmira’s #24 Andrew Smith creamed Pat Bell below the neck with a dangerous and malicious check from behind along the boards. It was a most cowardly, inexcusable, and unmanly act - showing a total disregard for safety, respect or sportsmanship. Shameful barely comes close to describe such a dirty deed.

 The Cyclones could not convert on the 2 minute power play gift that they had to start the 3^rd period, and once again Elmira used that momentum to score twice and take a 4-3 lead at the 5:37 mark of the final period of play. In response the Cyclones stiffened their defensive stance and did not let Elmira intimidate them with their chippy play or yappy behavior. In card #2 of the evening, Ty Bilcke and Cory Genovese squared off with another delivery of dukes at the 5:52 mark. Bilcke stood his ground and kept his opponent at bay with some well placed knocks. Shortly after that scrap, at 7:54 the Cyclones tied the game by taking advantage of some sloppy Elmira defensive zone coverage. Jeff Bauer work the puck in deep on a harmless looking shoot in around the right wing wall. Brett Catto won the race to the puck and centered a pass into the left wing circle for Brett Mc Guinness. Number 12 wasted no time in unloading a shot that squirted through Matt Smith and into the cage to knot the game at 4 each. Another pitched battle between both squads ensued. Will Sibley made a circus save at his end while Joel Bowman just failed to finish a brilliant attack on the Elmira net. The nut cracker was delivered by the Cyclones at 15:35, when Elmira turned the puck over at the Listowel blue line, where Captain Bobby Cook took control of the puck and led a 3 on 1 charge in the other direction. The Captain gained the zone and hammered a hard shot at the net. The heavy shot produced a big rebound off the pads of Matt Smith and onto the stick of Caleb Cameron, who made no mistake in cashing in the rebound. A Cyclones cross check penalty at the 16:00 minute mark was effectively killed off by the Cyclones, with the forward tandems of Dalby / Mc Guinness and Cook / Catto both rising to the occasion. Then with the Elmira goal tender out in favor of an extra attacker, Captain Bobby Cook sealed the outcome with not one but 2 empty net goals. The first at 18:39 was assisted by Brett Catto and the second at 19:17 was assisted by Pat Bell.

YIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE !!!

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Bobby Cook: Number 16 led all Cyclones with 3G and 2A and a transport truck load of heart. Once again it proves that dynamite comes in small packages, and the Cyclones Captain has it in spades.

 2 Points - Patrick Bell: Number 20 registered 1G and 3A, bringing his “Aâ€Â� game to the table tonight. The Grand Valley native wasn’t intimidated by opposition thuggery & quietly went about helping his team win.

 1 Point - Brett Mc Guinness: Number 12 registered the tying goal, won some key defensive zone face offs and worked hard on the PK, including a crucial kill late in the 3^rd period. What more needs to be said?

 Credit the entire Cyclones team and coaching staff for a terrific and spirited effort. YIPPEEEEEEEE!!!

 The next game action for the Cyclones will be Friday, December 3^rd for a 7:30p.m. home ice start against the 3^rd place Brantford Golden Eagles. It is another stern test for the Cyclones but the coaching staff and the players of the big Red, White & Black machine will be ready.

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:
- Prior to the start of tonight’s game, the choir from Listowel Central Public School was on hand to sing our national anthem. The Listowel Cyclones thank the students, staff and parents for their part in another successful home game. The Cyclones look forward to seeing you again very soon.

 - Cyclones Hockey is about more than just games on the ice and it is about more than just winning. Cyclones Hockey is also about sportsmanship and pride - pride for the jersey, the team and the community of Listowel and North Perth. To finish out this report, it is appropriate to commend and thank the Cyclones players who have participated in, and supported recent community events; such as the Eastdale Public School spaghetti fundraiser, a visit to Listowel Central Public School and a meet and greet with the public at the Listowel TD Canada Trust branch on Main Street. The kids and the adults (some of whom may tend to behave like kids from time to time) appreciate and acknowledge your efforts and good will off of the ice just as much your efforts and sportsmanship on the ice. Well done Cyclones!!!

 BLEED RED, WHITE & BLACK - GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Cyclones Back In the Win Column With 3-2 Win Over Dutchmen

After a falling one goal short to Guelph in their previous game, the Cyclones regrouped with a stellar effort to defeat Kitchener by a 3-2 margin at Kinsmen Arena on Nov 21st.

Special teams were a key factor for the mighty Red, White and Black as they captured their 12th win of the season. In so doing the Cyclones maintained their 5th place standing with 26 points in the 9 team Midwestern Conference of the GOJHL. The power play was 2 for 6 and the penalty killing was a spotless 8 for 8.

The Dutchmen opened the scoring at 2:49 of the 1st period but the Cyclones roared back with 2 quick goals within 15 seconds. Brett Catto & Pat Bell set up a Mac Nichol power play strike at 14:33, and then Bobby Cook and Pat Bell set up Caleb Cameron’s even strength goal at 14:48. Less than a minute later, the host team tied the game up with an even strength marker at 15:41.

The game winning goal was scored on the power play at 8:54 of the 2nd period. Brett Catto and Tanner Simpson assisted while Ryan Horvat did the honors.

From that point onwards, Will Sibley and his teammates combined for a Cyclonic array of defensive coverage; successfully repelling all further Dutchmen scoring attempts - including a 6 on 4 charge over the final 32 seconds of the 3rd period. For added flavor to the match, Ty Bilcke and Caleb Apperson locked horns in a spirited duel of the dukes in the latter stages of the 2nd period. Boys will be boys.

The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points - Will Sibley: A good game starts from the net out and Number 33 was on his game, turning aside 25 of 27 Kitchener shots on goal. After an extended layoff due to injury, Will has quickly regained his groove.

2 Points - Brett Catto: Number 17 registered 2 power play assists to help give his team the winning edge. Cyclones snipers can rest assured that if they head to the net with their stick on the ice, Brett will hit them square on the tape with a good, crisp pass.

1 Point Each - Patrick Bell: Number 20 also registered 2 power play assists in the winning effort. The Grand Valley native is a “Steady Eddie� of late putting forth the type of effort and numbers that the Cyclones were anticipating since acquiring him from the Hanover Barons in November 2009.

Next weekend the Cyclones tangle with arch rivals Elmira, Friday night, 7:30 p.m. at Memorial Arena. This one should be another all knock down and drag ‘em out affair; as both teams have a decided dislike towards each other.

AFTER THE STORM NOTES: - Prior to the start of the Elmira game, a choir from Listowel Central Public School will sing our national anthem. Yet another good reason to get to the rink early and stake out your favorite spot to watch the action unfold. The students from Listowel Central will be the Cyclones special guests for the evening. Welcome All!!!

- The Cyclones “Big Ticket Draw� has returned for another season. There are a total of 7 Cool & Cyclonic prizes to be won. Tickets can be purchased at any home game and are available at the front table, from the team executive, team volunteers, parents & players. The draw is popular every season so do not miss this one!!!!

GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Great Effort, Awesome Game,Tough 7-6 Loss

The Cyclones endured another wicke-d twist of fate losing 7-6 to the league leading Guelph Hurricanes at memorial Arena. The Cyclones matched Guelph stride for stride in this end to end contest but could not get enough of an upper hand to beat them outright on the scoreboard. The Cyclones pelted Guelph net minder Taylor O’ Keefe with 42 shots on goal, while the Hurricanes countered by blitzing Will Sibley in the Cyclones net with 41 shots of their own. The Cyclones special teams had a tough night – going 0 for 8 on the power play, 5 for 7 on the penalty kill and Guelph added more salt to the wound with a short - handed goal as well. Credit the Cyclones for another near heroic effort as they came ever so close to toppling the GOJHL Midwest Conference leaders. The Cyclones welcomed Will Sibley back into the starting roster after a near 3 week layoff due to a lower body injury.

 After 10 minutes of back and forth action the baker’s dozen scoring parade began at 10:15 of the first period. A shot by Erik Belanger was headed wide of the net until it rattled off of a Cyclones stick blade and fluttered into the far top corner. The goal was a foreshadowing of the crazy night that lay ahead for both squads. Undaunted by this, the Cyclones marched down the ice and tied the game 41 seconds later at 10:56. Tanner Simpson and Brett Catto roared own the ice and set Ryan Horvat up on the left wing side, where number 14 unloaded a hard low shot off the goalie pads, scooped up his own rebound and fired again – this time the twine. At 12:03, the Cyclones went ahead when Brett McGuinness and Tyler Evoy did some hard work behind the Guelph net to send a centering pass into the slot area. Blue liner Blake Thompson jumped in from the right side and slapped the puck from the top of the right face - off circle, unleashing a hard and low drive that bulged twine. The Cyclones continued to press but Guelph continued to counter attack, grabbing a turn over outside of the Cyclones blue line. With too many white shirts headed up ice at the same time, Guelph was able to create an odd man situation in front of Will Sibley for the easy conversion by Zach Dion at 15:24. The Cyclones held a 16 – 7 shots advantage after the opening 20 minutes.

In the middle 20 minutes both teams registered 15 shots on goal and both teams registered 3 goals. Guelph struck at 1:56 with a short - handed goal by Mark Bell. After the power play ended, the Cyclones Patrick Bell responded with an even strength goal at 2:56. Hard work deep inside the Guelph end by Jeff Bauer and Brett Catto provided the set up for Bell, who put on a show of strength and skill with some strong footwork and stick handling with in front of the net before snapping the puck O’Keefe. At 4:33 offence was created by defence when Joel Bowman intercepted and quickly passed it up ice to Captain Bobby Cook. Number 16 then passed over to Brett Catto for a 2 on 1 counter attack. Catto moved in, froze the defenders and then unleashed some picture perfect top shelf cheese to give the home side a 4-3 lead. Then it was Guelph’s turn to score a pair in quick succession. Alex Cremasco scored at 11:12 on the 3^rd or 4^th shot of a scramble in front of the Cyclones goal crease. The first of Guelph’s 2 power play goals was scored at Cam Jude at 13:39 to give Guelph a 5-4 lead. To their credit the Cyclones continued to battle and after a furry in the Guelph zone the game was tied at 5’s at 15:32. Brett Catto and Ty Bilcke forced a turnover inside the hash marks and fed a pass to the open side where an unmarked Caleb Cameron made no mistake and buried the puck into the yawning cage.

 In the final 20 minutes another 30 shots were generated by both teams – 19 by Guelph and 11 by the Cyclones. The Cyclones got an early goal from Patrick Bell at 2:35 after Spencer Turcotte and Captain Bobby Cook worked the puck in deep behind the Guelph net, with Cook feeding a pass towards the top of the goal crease where Bell had gained position for a shot from the edge of the blue paint. Once again the lead was short lived as Guelph continued to drive hard to the Cyclones net. Zach Dion scored his second of the game, jumping in from the blue line to knock in a loose rebound. Both teams continued to battle hard into the waning minutes of the 2rd period; the game breaker was a Guelph power play goal from Brandon Stewart with 4:48 remaining. Already short a man, a Cyclones defender was without his stick, unable to help clear the loose puck, creating a 5 on 3 situation. The Cyclones continued to battle, used an extra attacker in the final minute and continued firing shots until the final buzzer, but another goal was not meant to be on this night.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points – Brett Catto: Number 17 led all Cyclones scorers in the game with 1G and 2A, totaling 20 points in 17 games so far this season. The Kincardine native is a player that other teams learn to quickly to dislike, and on the flip side we are more than pleased to have him on our side and wearing the Red, White & Black.

 2 Points – Ryan Horvat: Number 14 registered 1G and 1A in the game and added some grit and tenacity up front. More of the same style of effort will be needed on Sunday in Kitchener against a scrappy and talented Dutchmen squad. In previous games, Ryan has played well on the big ice at Kinsmen Arena, so do not be surprised if #14 goes on a bit of a rip and tear once more.

 1 Point Each - Captain Bobby Cook & Patrick Bell: Number 16 assisted twice & Number 20 scored twice. Bobby leads the team in scoring with 27 in 24 games and Pat leads the team in goals with 15 in 24 games. Continued production and leadership from both men will be a key to future Cyclonic on ice success.

 The next game action for the Cyclones will be a rare Sunday 3:30 p.m. start in Kitchener at the Kinsmen Arena against the Dutchmen.

 Next weekend the Cyclones tangle with arch rivals Elmira, Friday night, 7:30 p.m. at Memorial Arena. This one should be another all knock down and drag ‘em out affair; as both teams have a decided dislike towards each other. .

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:
- Prior to the start of the Elmira game, a choir from Listowel Central Public School will sing our national anthem. Yet another good reason to get to the rink early and stake out your favorite spot to watch the action unfold. The students from Listowel Central will be the Cyclones special guests for the evening. Welcome All!!!

 - The Cyclones “Big Ticket Drawâ€Â� has returned for another season. There are a total of 7 Cool & Cyclonic prizes to be won. Tickets can be purchased at any home game and are available at the front table, from the team executive, team volunteers, parents & players. The draw is popular every season so do not miss this one!!!!

 GO CYCLONES GO!!!

2nd Straight Shootout-3-2 Loss to Cullitons

In their 3^rd match at Stratford’s William Allman Memorial Arena, the Cyclones battled valiantly and tirelessly against the Cullitons but fell just short in a 3-2 shoot out loss. For the second time in as many games the Cyclones played a full 65 minutes plus before a winner could be decided. Full credit is given to the Cyclones for coming from behind twice to tie the game and force overtime. The Red, White and Black earn full marks for finding ways to break through against the a relentless Cullitons neutral zone trap, resisting the pressure of intense cycling, grinding and mucking in the corners and for finding a way to solve a stifling defensive curtain.

 The Cyclones managed 46 shots on Stratford goaltender Derek Mitchell, were 1 for 5 on the power play and were 2 for 2 on the penalty kill. Brian Hainsworth was busy in the Cyclones net stopping 48 of 50 opposition shots, including many shots from close range and in heavy traffic. A shoot out loss is always a tough way to lose a game, but nevertheless, it was a very hard earned and well deserved point for a young Cyclones team which was pitted against a more experienced opponent in one of the toughest GOJHL buildings to play in.

 The home side scored first at 3:10 of the first period after the Cyclones had finished killing off their first penalty of the game, but they could not clear the zone to relieve the pressure.  The Cyclones would tie the game early into the second period at the 1:41 mark when good defence resulted in a good transition to offence. The Cyclones intercepted the Cullitons attack deep in their zone, and worked the puck up quickly to Captain Bobby Cook. Number 16 worked his way up the right wing side and dangled the puck just long enough to allow Patrick Bell enough time to streak down the centre of the ice with his skates aflash. A perfect tape to tape pass was gathered in by Bell, and in one smooth and fluid motion the big winger slipped the puck into the twine. Lovely!!!

 The home side regained their 1 goal advantage at 16:41 of the second period as both teams continued to battle each other in close quarters; with neither team willing to give an inch of ice to the other. Every play was closely contested as the margin for victory grew increasingly narrower as the game progressed. Like boxers Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, it was a battle of heavy weights into the late rounds of a title match. The Cullitons continued to attack only to be turned back by the Cyclones who would then mount a counter attack of their own. Unfazed by the Cullitons attack, the Cyclones continued to buzz and prowl around the Stratford net. Their patience, persistence and hard work paid off eventually. An open pass through neutral ice developed into a foot race for the loose puck. The Cyclones Jeff Bauer won that foot race and broke hard for the net but before the Lambeth native could make a play on the net he was tripped up. 6 seconds later on the ensuing power play, Tanner Simpson won a key face off inside the zone and the loose puck was scooped up by Mac Nichol. The puck was then moved over to Joel Bowman who had time and space to make his move and snap a blistering wrist shot , top cheese over the mitt of the goal tender. YIPPEEEEE!!!

 The stage was set for an exciting 5 minutes of 4 on 4 overtime hockey as the Cyclones rallied with 6 shots on goal versus 4 shots from the home team. In the shoot out that followed, the home side tallied twice while the Cyclones could only find the net once in the form of a howitzer shot from Captain Bobby Cook. It was a good battle for the Cyclones and although the game was a shoot out loss, Cyclonic heart and Cyclonic pride was at its best - front and centre.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Joel Bowman: Number 6 logged a ton of ice, took a skate in the stomach behind the play while he was down on the ice; and he scored a huge goal on the power play. The Atwood native leads all blue liners on his team with 18 points thus far in the season.

 2 Points - Captain Bobby Cook: Number 16 assisted on the 1^st Cyclones goal and scored in the shoot out. Once again he led his squad by example by paying the price on offence as well as on the defensive side of the ledger.

 1 Point - Awarded to the rest of the Cyclones game roster for their effort in this match. Noteworthy are the 48 save performance by Brian Hainsworth, Pat Bell’s team leading 13^th goal, Brett Catto’s energy and his knack for winding up the other team, and the grit and gusto put forth by Tanner Simpson, Ryan Horvat, Brett Mc Guinness and the rest of the squad. Keep working at it men, your continued hard work will pay off.  

 The next game action for the Cyclones will be Friday, November 19^th at Memorial Arena against Guelph and then a rare Sunday 3:30 p.m. start in Kitchener at the Kinsmen Arena against the Dutchmen. The midway point of the season approaches and the action gets more intense. Get your tickets ready, find your favorite seat early and prepare yourselves to enjoy “The Coolest Game in Townâ€Â� as the Cyclones unleash the storm on their opponents. Sock it to them Cyclones!!!

 GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Cyclones Lose 6-5 in Shootout

The Cyclones encountered the Waterloo Siskins for the 3^rd time this season, but for the 1^st time on Listowel home ice and for the 1^st time it went to a shoot out. The Red, White and Black deserved a better fate in this game as they had all of the right ingredients in play for a win but fell short of two points in what was a very hard fought and entertaining game. The Cyclones managed 42 shots on Waterloo goal tender Marc Williams were 1 for 8 on the power play and were 6 for 8 on the penalty kill. Brian Hainsworth was busy in the Cyclones nets, stopping 31 of 36 shots, including some very nifty saves at close range.

 So far the teams have split the previous 2 meetings – Waterloo taking the 1^st match by a 4-2 score and the Cyclones by a 3-2 count in the 2^nd match. Heading into this game the Siskins were coming off of a big Sunday afternoon overtime win against Owen Sound; meanwhile the Cyclones were looking to rebound after a 5-2 Saturday night loss in Guelph.

 In the first period, there were 23 shots on goal, 4 of them finding the back of the net. Both teams set the tone of the match early, setting a high tempo with hard skating, close checking and by hitting everything that moved. Waterloo hit the scoreboard first with a PPG at 3:06. Chapman won the face off and Auger snapped in the puck in one clean motion. The Cyclones replied with two quick strikes from Captain Bobby Cook. The first goal was scored at 5:14 and resulted after some good work along the wall, as the puck squirted free to Joel Bowman at the right point, who ripped a shot that was deflected in front. The second goal arrived at 7:32and resulted from a slick combination of Cyclonic Speed and Science. Spencer Turcotte started the play in his own end with a nice outlet pass to Patrick Bell, who then blazed his way down the left side deep into Waterloo zone before snapping a tape to tape pass to Cook, who wired a shot from inside the hash marks. Excellent team work men!!! On the power play late in the period Caleb Cameron’s weak side shot hit the iron and another Cyclones would have been huge at that point; as Waterloo marched into the Cyclones end and tied the game with 33 seconds left in the period. Steve Kerr made a good play to break up the initial rush but Justin Auger regained the puck and set up Mitch Facey who walked in 1 on 1 and managed to squirt the puck through Brian Hainsworth.

 In the second period, there were 30 shots on goal and four more found the back of the net. The Cyclones built up a 4 – 2 lead and gained the momentum in the first half of the middle frame, but Waterloo continued to battle and had the game tied after 40 minutes. Good defence resulted in good offence for the Cyclones 3^rd goal of the game. A Waterloo attack was stopped and the puck quickly turned up ice in the other direction. Ryan Horvat and Brett Catto stormed up the right wing side of the ice, and Tanner Simpson provided the finish with a smooth back hand. Sweet. The Cyclones upped their lead at the 3:43 mark after some good work off of the face off deep in the Waterloo zone. Brett Catto and Mac Nichol worked the puck in front to Ryan Horvat who made a smooth finish of his own. The Cyclones were poised to put a lock on the game but Waterloo appeared to get a boost from a scrap between Kevin Billings and the Cyclones Jeff Bauer. Going into this game Billings had amassed 3 points and 64 minutes in penalties meanwhile Bauer had closer to Lady Bing like numbers with 14 points and 22 minutes in penalties. After a Waterloo icing, both 1993’s were observed jawing at each other as they skated up ice to prepare for the face off in the Waterloo end. As soon as the puck was dropped the gloves were off and the dukes were up. If Billings thought he had picked a soft customer to scrap with he was wrong as Bauer tagged Billings with some solid pokes to the schnozz. Take that buddy. The Cyclones then got into a jam with two minor penalties and in turn the Siskins scored at 6:19 during a 4on 3 power play at 6:19 – Scott Nagy fed the puck to the left point where David Savery snuck a low shot in through traffic in front of the net. Waterloo tied the game at 4’s at 16:07 on a second effort after the initial shot was not handled cleanly and the rebound was jammed home from the left side of the crease. Sean Fennell got the goal after Adam Campagnolo and Troy Williams did the work to set up the play. Prior to the that series, the Cyclones were getting caught running around in their own zone and could not make the simple clearing play, which led the face off and more scrambly play in front of the Cyclones net before the goal was scored.

 In the third period, there were 20 shots on goal and two found their way across the goal line. The Cyclones took advantage of a cowardly Siskins high sticking penalty at 5:01. Patrick Bell was parked in front of the net and scooped in a Mac Nichol rebound. Steve Kerr drew the second assist, keeping the puck inside the zone and feeding across to Nichol who made the simple shot on goal from the right point. A crucial moment of the game came and went when Waterloo escaped unscathed from an extended 5on 3 penalty kill. The Siskins tied it up at 5’s at 11:11 when Justin Auger was able to break in alone after the cyclones were caught up ice with everyone pinching in deep inside the Waterloo zone. The Cyclones then found themselves in a 5 on 3 penalty kill but managed to escape and held a pair of scoring chances by Blake Thompson and Brett Catto – both of which painfully bounced off the iron and out. .

 In overtime, both teams had 2 shots apiece, but the best of the lot was a breakaway shot by the Cyclones Caleb Cameron that was stopped but the puck dribbled just wide of the post – it was so close to ending the game right there folks.

 In the shoot out, waterloo scored twice while Bobby Cook scored for the Cyclones with a howitzer shot from inside the hash marks – K-A-B-O-O-M !!!!!

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Captain Bobby Cook: Number 16 continues to lead his team, scoring 2 goals in regulation time and one in the shoot out. Bobby had his skates and hockey smarts in motion all game long, as he and the rest of his team mates gave it their all in this game.

 2 Points - Brett Catto: Number 17 set up two goals, narrowly missed a shorthanded goal late in the 3^rd period and was a handful for Waterloo all game long. Brett is at his best when he gets under the skin of the opposition and this game was certainly one of those indeed.

 1 Point - Tanner Simpson: Number 22 had one goal and offered up lots of coarse grit sandpaper, mixing it up in front of the net and in the corners. The Cyclones will be counting on more of the same against the Cullitons on Sunday.

 The next game action is Sunday at 7:30 p.m. for another intense match up at the William Allman Memorial Arena against the Stratford Cullitons. Even with goaltender Evan Groenestege out of the line up due to suspension, the Cyclones will need all hands on deck as they prepare for another epic battle against their cross county rivals.

 GO CYCLONES GO!!!

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES……..

-          Tonight’s game featured the Eastdale Public School choir as they provided a splendid rendition of our national anthem prior to the start of the game. A Cyclonic thank you for a job well done.

Cyclones Lose 5-2 In Guelph

 The Cyclones encountered a swift and speedy Guelph Hurricanes squad at the Sleeman Center on Nov 6^th.

The Red, White and Black put forth a decent opening 20 minutes and held the Hurricanes to a 1-1 draw. Some good neutral zone checking and counter attacking helped keep the Hurricanes in check. In the second period a different story unfolded as the Hurricanes found some seams and lapses in the Cyclones defensive coverage, scoring 3 times, thus providing the decisive moments for a 5 - 2 Hurricanes win. The Cyclones effort in this contest was much better than the effort that was put forth in their first visit to the Sleeman Center. Despite that improvement, some additional work will be needed to tighten things up against a sharp and finely tuned Guelph squad. The Hurricanes have a good, hard working squad and opposing teams cannot afford to make any mistakes against them.

 In the first period, the Hurricanes opened the scoring at 1:55 with a shot that caught Brian Hainsworth and the Cyclones off guard. The Cyclones tied the game at 12:40 with a nice job on the power play. Brett Catto (or was it Ryan Horvat) made a nice strong pass through the box to Jordan Turcotte, who then made a smart and crisp slap pass which was redirected by Tanner Simpson at the edges of the goal crease.

 In the second period the Hurricanes erupted with three straight goals – at the 2:02 mark on the power play, at 4:45 on even strength and at 10:20 with another even strength goal. The Cyclones replied with their second power play goal of the game at 17:18. Captain Bobby Cook converted a series of passes made by Joel Bowman and Jordan Turcotte to draw the Cyclones within 2.

 In the third period the Cyclones battled in an effort to tie the game, creating some decent scoring chances but either they could not capitalize or they were shut down by a superior defensive effort by the Hurricanes. An empty net goal by the home side at 19:14 sealed the Cyclones fate.

 The Cyclones managed 32 shots on Guelph goal tender Jeff Flagler, were 2 for 4 on the power play and were 6 for 7 on the penalty kill. Brian Hainsworth was busy in the Cyclones nets, stopping 33 of 37 shots, including some very nifty saves at close range.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Brian Hainsworth: Big Number 1 was the Cyclones steadiest game performer stopping 33 of 37 shots that were directed at him by a very dynamic and energetic Guelph offence. The Kitchener native continued to battle regardless of the score and gave his team a chance to regroup and make a try for a come from behind win. 

2 Points - Captain Bobby Cook: Number 16 scored his second goal in as many games and led his team by example. Bobby currently leads the team in scoring with 22 points in 21 games.

 1 Point - Jordan Turcotte: Number 24 registered 2 assists in the game and is currently sixth in team scoring with 15 points in 20 games.

 The next game action is a Friday 7:30 p.m. match against Waterloo and then on Sunday the Cyclones whirl their way into Stratford for 7:30 battle against the Cullitons. The Cyclones will need all hands on deck as they  progress into the season.  GO CYCLONES GO!!!

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES……..

-          For Friday night’s home game against the Waterloo Siskins, the Listowel Cyclones Junior Hockey Club welcomes Eastdale Public School as their special guests. The Eastdale Choir will sing the national anthem prior to the start of the game.

 -          On Wednesday, November 10^th at Diana Sweets Restaurant, Eastdale Public School will be holding a spaghetti dinner fund raiser. The Listowel Cyclones will be helping to support this worthwhile cause. Cyclones players will trade in their hockey gear for serving trays as they hustle meal orders from kitchen to table. Please support this community event and come see how some of your favorite Cyclones can stick handle their way through the heavy traffic in the kitchen.

 Cyclones Win 6-2 Over Grey's

The Cyclones capitalized on some early 1^st period miscues by the Owen Sound Greys en route to a 6 - 2 Friday night win at Memorial Arena. The Red, White and Black controlled play for the majority of the game as they hammered the Owen Sound goaltending tandem with 55 shots; while only allowing 26 opposition shots at Brian Hainsworth. The Cyclones special teams also had a decent outing by registering a 2 for 9 success rate with the man advantage, a 7 for 8 penalty kill effort and a splendid looking short - handed goal. The victory improves the Cyclones record to 11wins and 9 losses and keeps them in 5^th place of the Midwest Conference of the GOJHL. Credit the Greys with a gutsy and determined effort from start to finish.

 The Cyclones got on the board quickly netting their first goal at 1:22 of the opening period. The goal resulted when the Cyclones went on the counter attack after an Owen Sound rush was broken up in the Cyclones zone. Spencer Turcotte and Patrick Bell worked the puck up to Captain Booby Cook on the right wing, where he skated the puck deep into the zone before unloading a wrist shot. At 2:15, the Cyclones upped their lead to 2 - 0 when Blake Thompson led the rush deep into Owen Sound end, circled behind the net and centered the puck out to the blue line. Jordan Turcotte received the pass and unleashed a shot through traffic and into the twine. Matt Drake helped Owen Sound get onto the score sheet with an unassisted effort at 9:57; after winning a puck battle behind the Cyclones net and shooting from the left side of the goal crease. The Cyclones continued to fore check and apply pressure in the offensive zone as both Ryan Horvat and Tanner Simpson came close to scoring goals off the fore check. The Cyclones registered their first power play goal of the game at 15:20. Joel Bowman unloaded a sharp angled shot after Bobby Cook and Jordan Turcotte had their chances stopped. The Cyclones struck again at 16:12. Tyler Evoy got the puck deep into the Owen Sound zone along the right wing boards. Brett Mc Guinness and David Dalby worked the give and go to perfection as Brett emerged from the half boards, made a nice move into the hash marks, and quickly released a slow shot. Owen Sound responded with their own fore check work, making some nice moves down low but the point blank shot was snared by mitt of Brian Hainsworth. A late Cyclones penalty in the first period turned out to be advantageous as the dynamic duo of Dalby and McGuinness combined for a short - handed goal at 19:50. The puck was intercepted high in the Cyclones zone by David Dalby, who roared down the right wing, waiting for his line mate to catch up, before making the perfect pass to McGuinness who quickly buried the pass into the twine. This is Cyclonic team work at its best.

 After a busy 6 goal first period both teams traded one goal each in the second period and traded dukes as well. Joel Bowman registered his second goal of the game and the Cyclones second power play goal of the game at 5:49 with a shot through traffic from inside the blue line. The key to the goal was a face off win by Brett Catto, followed by some good passing and puck control to help cue up the shot. Brett Catto and Jordan Turcotte registered assist on the play. The Cyclones continued to dominate the Greys as the second period progressed but the Greys managed to draw closer with a power play goal at 19:48. Nick Pope scored on a play that was set up by Kris Dobinson and Keegan Ackerland. 8 seconds earlier, Brett Catto and Kevin Smith tangled in a bout of fisticuffs, as both players seemed to want to leave the game early and perhaps get a chance at buying one of the last remaining Cyclones 50/50 tickets.

 The third period was scoreless and early on it started to get a little chippy and undisciplined. A time out was called by the Cyclones and from that point on both teams readjusted their sights and focused on hockey instead of shenanigans.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Brett McGuinness: Slick & Speedy #12 had two goals late in the first period to blow the game wide open, including a nice finish to a 2 on 1 rush on the penalty kill.

 2 Points - Joel Bowman:  Number 6 was at his best as he lit up the Greys with 2 power play goals coupled with another stingy and feisty defensive effort inside his own zone.

 1 Point - Bobby Cook: The Cyclones Captain registered 1 goal and 2 assist on the night. Number 16 and was more than a handful for the Greys in this game, as he was a threat to score throughout the evening.

 1 Point - David Dalby: Number 9 registered 2 assists including the steal and the set up on the Mc Guinness short - handed goal. Both David and Brett are developing into a Cyclonic sneaky pair of PK bandits as this season progresses. Giddy Up!!!

 The next game action is Saturday night match in Guelph against the GOJHL Midwest Conference leading Hurricanes. The Cyclones will need all hands on deck as they look to go into the Sleeman Centre, do some damage and emerge with 2 points.

 GO CYCLONES GO!!!

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES……..

-          On Wednesday, November 10^th at Diana Sweets Restaurant, Eastdale Public School will be holding a spaghetti dinner fund raiser. The Listowel Cyclones will be helping to support this worthwhile cause. Cyclones players will trade in their hockey gear for serving trays as they hustle meal orders from kitchen to table. Please support this community event and come see how some of your favorite Cyclones can stick handle their way through the heavy traffic in the kitchen.

-          Steve Simpson buried the biscuit during the first intermission in the Listowel Car City Shootout. The second of three shots was right down the middle – Sweet!!!!  

 SugarKings Earn 4-2 Win Over Cycs

If hockey were a 40 minute game and if second periods were not played then the Cyclones would be declared 2-1 winners of this game. Such is not the case as the Red, White and Black had a ghoulish and frightful second period, having been outshot by the Sugar Kings by a count of 22 to 4 and having been outscored by a 3-0 margin.

 After a tough Saturday night game in Cambridge, the Cyclones did respond with a decent first period effort. The Cyclones held a clean sheet, limiting Elmira to 4 shots, took no penalties and came close to converting on 2 power play chances against the Sugar Kings. Ty Bilcke scored his first goal as a Cyclone at 8:06 after redirecting a left point shot from the edge of the blue paint. Steven Kerr and Caleb Cameron were credited with the assists on the play. Good footwork and good puck movement by Cameron helped keep the Elmira penalty killers off balance and backed up off the blue line, allowing time and space for a well placed point shot. The Cyclones narrowly missed going up by 2-0 when a wicked slap shot from the left wing side by Captain Bobby Cooked whistled wide of the far post. The physical play during the period was a foreshadowing of things to come in the next 20 minutes.

 In the second period the Sugar Kings gradually wrestled control of the game away from the Cyclones, scoring 3 times – an even strength goal at 9:47, a power play goal at 14:35, and then a back breaking shorthanded goal at 18:10.

 In the third period Elmira scored another power play goal on a nice rush and finish by Baleshta. Credit the Cyclones for sticking with it and scoring their second on the power play at 14:21 courtesy of an unassisted marker by Caleb Cameron. The Cyclones pulled their goaltender with less than 2 minutes to play but could not draw any closer on the score sheet.

 The final game stats were 43 Elmira shots, 24 Cyclones shots; the Cyclones were 1 / 5 on the power play and 3 / 5 on the penalty kill.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points - Brian Hainsworth: Number 1 stopped 39 of 43 Elmira shots and did not wither against the constant traffic in his crease.

 2 Points - Ty Bilcke: Number 28 scored his first Junior B goal and got his team started on the right skate.

 1 Point - Joel Bowman, Mac Nichol and Brett Catto: All 3 took some nasty and illegal hits but despite the chicanery of the opposition, they did not leave the game on account of it all. This trio is as tough as nails and won’t be intimidated by a challenge posed by anyone or anything.

 The next game action is Friday, 7:30 p.m. at Memorial Arena against Owen Sound, followed by a 7:30 p.m. Saturday night match in Guelph against the Conference leading Hurricanes.

 GO CYCLONES GO!!!

WinterHawks Shut Out Cyclones 5-0

The Red, White and Black did not have a stellar outing in Cambridge and were shutout by a 5-0 margin.

After squandering several 1^st period power play chances and failing to finish an assortment of other scoring drives in the opening 40 minutes, the Cyclones found themselves only down by a 1-0 margin. If not for some sharp goaltending by Will Sibley and some solid penalty killing then that margin would have been much larger during that time.

 The squad was looking to get themselves back into the game with a power play to start the third period. That chance backfired completely as the host Winterhawks team responded with a short - handed goal and then with a power play goal of their own not very long after that.

 To add insult to injury, starting goaltender Will Sibley was forced to leave the game with an injury. Having watched their goal tender lay crumpled on the ice and already down by a 3-0 score the bad news kept coming for the Cyclones. Cambridge scored an early goal on Brian Hainsworth and then another in the final minute of the period. Sandwiched in between that, a giddy member of the Winterhawks delivered a nasty head shot on Ryan Horvat. Dazed by the hit but certainly not confused, Number 14 responded by directing some chin music of his own towards the offending opponent. The offender received a 5 minute fighting major, a 5 minute major head check penalty, a game misconduct and will receive a 3 game suspension for his dirty work. For his part in the skirmish, Ryan received a considerable head ache, a slashing penalty, a 5 minute fighting major, a game misconduct and a 1 game suspension for having fought in the last 10 minutes of the 3^rd period.

 The final stats for the game were 36 shots on goal for Cambridge, 30 shots on goal for Listowel; and the Cyclones were 0-7 on the man advantage and 6-7 on the PK. Credit the Winterhawks for finding a way to win after overcoming a slow start in order to break a 6 game losing streak.

 For the Cyclones it was a lost chance to build on the success of the previous 3 games and perhaps move them selves up into a better position within the Midwest Conference standings. In order to do that in future games, the team will have to figure out how to put forth a consistent effort from one night to the next; and how to battle through the adversities that they will come up against inside each of those games. Persistence, patience and hard work will be necessary ingredients for the Cyclones as October gives way to November.

 The next game of the weekend sees the Cyclones spin into Elmira for a tough Sunday night contest with the Sugar Kings. Game time is 7:00 p.m. See you there.

 GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Cyclones Win 4-1 Over Dutchmen

The action against the Kitchener Dutchmen was fast, fierce and hard hitting but the results were Cyclonic.

The Cyclones had their work cut out for them against a scrappy Kitchener squad but the Red, White and Black emerged victorious with a hard fought 4 – 1 victory, their 10^th in 17 games. The key to the victory was another total team effort and the success of the special teams – 2 power play goals, one short handed marker and a spotless 9 for 9 in the penalty killing department. Will Sibley was the guardian of the twine tent for the home town Cyclones and repelled 28 of 29 opposition shots while his opposition counterpart Duncan Long kicked out 24 of 28 Listowel shots.

 The first period involved no scoring and the action was fast paced and closely contested at both ends of the ice. Both teams went 0 for 3 on the power play – the best Cyclones chances were by Mac Nichol and Blake Thompson. Nichol’s shot from the top of the hash marks went wide of the far post on one power play. On another Blake Thompson’s shot from about the same area grazed the outside of the far post.

  4 of the game’s 5 goals were scored in the second period and the bulk of the game’s penalties were also assessed in the middle 20 minute set. The misfortune of the first Cyclones penalty of the period was quickly erased with the Cyclones first goal of the game. Captain Bobby Cook grabbed the puck inside the Cyclones zone and was able to move it up ice quickly. This maneuver caught the Kitchener defenders flat footed as they turned around in full retreat in pursuit of the puck. Inside the Kitchener blue line, Cook’s angle to the net was blocked but by this time the Cyclones Mac Nichol had joined the rush, creating the scenario for text book 2 on 1 scoring play. At the last possible moment Cook snapped a right wing pass through the defender and into the middle of the ice where Nichol took the puck and in one fluid motion, Number 8 roofed a wrist shot over Long’s mitt. It was the 1^st goal of the season for the Listowel native and it gave the Cyclones the lead at the 2:30 mark. Following that play, the Cyclones went two men short for a 44 second span, managed to kill that off and just after the second penalty expired, the Dutchmen scored to tie the game up at the 5:04 mark. Ted Anstett and Brett Gibson caught the Cyclones out of position on a left wing rush to create an odd man situation down low; which in turn set up Brett Gibson for the easy close range shot from the weak side of the crease. The Cyclones quickly rebounded and restored the lead with the first of their two power play goals at 6:46. Bobby Cook set up a right wing point shot from Joel Bowman, which was redirected in front by Tyler Evoy. Number 11’s hand eye co-ordination was perfect as the puck eluded all others in front and left no chance for Duncan Long to stop it. The Cyclones second power play goal was registered at the 13:28 mark of the period during a 5 on 3 man advantage. Joel Bowman and Mac Nichol worked the puck high before sending it down low to Bobby Cook. The Captain had time and space at the left wing side of the net to fake out Duncan Long with a dizzying yet spectacular array of moves before stuffing the puck between Long’s right skate and the post. This was a highlight reel goal indeed Cyclones fans, as Number 16 pulled this one off in an area no larger than the foot print of a regulation sized telephone booth (remember those?) As mentioned earlier, there was a fair bit of scrappy play in the period as both teams took turns at applying the body; jousting with each other after the whistle, and jabbing some verbal barbs back and forth. Plenty of coarse grit sandpaper was used this period by both teams.

 Both teams continued to battle hard in the 3^rd period. Credit Kitchener as they did not quit and kept pushing hard to get back into the game; and credit the Cyclones for responding with intensity and effort needed to keep the opposition off the score sheet for the rest of the game. The Cyclones iced the match with an even strength goal at 11:05. The law firm of Turcotte, Turcotte and Bilcke started the attack inside their own zone, won the neutral ice chase for the puck and drove hard to the net. After a crash of bodies in the front of the Kitchener crease, Spencer Turcotte knocked the puck in to give the Cyclones a 3 goal lead and was assisted by partners JordanTurcotte and TyBilcke.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Bobby Cook - The team captain bled Red, White and Black all night with a splendid overall game effort at both ends of the rink and he led all players in scoring with 1 G and 2 A.

 2 Points: Mac Nichol - Number 8 had another strong game performance with 1G and 1A coupled with more steady defensive work – this time against a gritty, determined and feisty Kitchener squad.

 1 Point: Joel Bowman - Number 6 did his job with another steady and feisty effort for Cyclones. The Atwood native did his part to keep the Cyclones churning, twisting and turning with 2A on offence and some strong defensive coverage.

 On Saturday, the Cyclones will head south and east as they travel to Cambridge for a 7:00 p.m. match against the Winterhawks at Galt Arena Gardens. The weekend trifecta of competition wraps up Sunday night in Elmira against the high rolling Sugar Kings. Game time is 7:00 p.m.

 Cyclones fans this is a prime time chance to watch some hockey at its best. Get your tickets, bring your friends and make your way to the arena and cheer on the Red, White and Black. It is the Coolest Game in Town.

 GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Cyclones Defeat Siskins 3-2

In the 2^nd game of the weekend the Cyclones donned their work boots, hard hats and lunch buckets and ground their way towards a hard fought and well deserved 3-2 win in Waterloo. The Cyclones collected their 9^th win of the season using all of the key ingredients needed to win hockey games in the GOJHL. A healthy dose of speed and skill as demonstrated by hammering 41 shots on the Waterloo goal, mixed with a generous helping of stifling defense - allowing 2 goals on 26 shots, blended with some sand paper and grit in the corners, topped off with some hard hitting but disciplined play (taking only 3 minor penalties). Against a stingy and tough Waterloo team a total team effort from the Red, White and Black was put forth to secure the win.

 After the opening 20 minutes the Siskins held a 1-0 lead despite having been outshot by a 16 to 8 margin.

After a Cyclones attack was foiled deep inside the Waterloo zone, the home side’s Mike Hallford sent an outlet pass to Scott Nagy who roared down the ice and then from behind the icing line he centered the puck in front to Alex Beaulne, who snapped a shot high into the roof of the net at 10:15. The Cyclones best chance at a goal in the first period was a Mac Nichol slap pass that was redirected just wide by the stick of Pat Bell. The first period featured a free flowing pace, close checking inside the hash marks and very few stoppages in play.

 In the second period the Cyclones continued to battle for a goal and laid out the body in the process. Ty Bilcke and Sean Fennell each gave as good as they got during a clean and solid open ice collision. C-R-U-N-C-H. Not to be outdone, Caleb Cameron and Spencer Turcotte also dished out some solid hits on their White, Gold and Black clad opponents.  In the defensive end Will Sibley made a big left pad save on the doorstep of the net after Waterloo made a crisp cross crease pass during a power play. In the offensive end the Red, White and Black continued to work away but could not seem to buy a goal as they came close several times only to be stopped, shoot wide or fan on the shot. Their persistent offensive zone pressure resulted in a Waterloo penalty that set the scene for the opening Cyclones goal of the match. Mac Nichol and Brett Catto combined to set up an outlet pass to power forward Pat Bell. Ask not for whom the Bell tolled because big #20 brought himself to full speed and then at full stride he rifled a blazing wrist shot from 12 feet inside the Waterloo blue line that pinged off the near post and into the twine. Chime “1â€Â� for the Cyclones and ring up goal number 11 of the season for the Grand Valley sniper. Wow!!! The Cyclones continued to apply the initiative but came as close as a wicked backhand shot from Brett Mc Guinness that grazed the post and caromed into the corner. Once again the Cyclones held the advantage in play and shots on goal with 12 – 7 margin in the middle 20 minutes of play.

 The final 20 minutes featured the decisive plays that determined the outcome of the game. The Cyclones came close on a 4 minute power play but it was not until the man advantage had expired at 6:11 did they get the elusive go ahead goal that they were looking for. Will Sibley and Mac Nichol worked the puck up the right side to the always fleet a foot Brett Catto. Mr. Smooth streaked down the right wing, blew past the near defenceman, and made the far defencmean look silly by eluding his check and cutting hard to the net. In full flight #17 breezed around the goaltender, who was bedazzled and frozen stiff all at once by Catto’s last move around the far defenceman. With the goaltender frozen in his crease, the puck was swept into the open cage n one fluid motion…poetry on ice indeed…S-M-O-O-T-H……….. 5  minutes and 3 seconds later Waterloo’s Scott Nagy took a page out of Catto’s play book and tied the game with an unassisted  right wing power play rush and a hard cut to the net, squeezing a perfectly placed shot into the far side of the net. The stage was setting up for 5 minutes of overtime as the pace of play slowed and became more choppy as the period drew to a close; with several whistles and short bursts of play. The Cyclones continued to work hard deep in the Waterloo zone and with 58 seconds left their efforts were rewarded. Ryan Horvat, Captain Bobby Cook and Tanner Simpson cycled and jammed the puck down low in the left wing corner, around behind the net and out the other side. From the left side Tanner Simpson’s shot was stopped but the rebound bounced out and past Tanner. As tanner was shooting Ryan had drifted from the left wing side to the right wing side, and snapped the loose puck high over the glove. In the final 58 seconds Will Sibley and the Cyclones shut the door and sealed the win. Good Work Men !!!

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Brett Catto - Number 17 put in another steady game effort with 1G and 1A and now totals 15 points in 9 games since his return from the Belleville Bulls of the OHL.

2 Points: Mac Nichol – Number 8 upped his overall game effort with 2A coupled with some steady defensive work against a gritty, determined and hard working Waterloo squad.

 1 Point: The rest of the Cyclones game roster earns a point for their contributions in this game. Whether it was paying the price to make a big hit, win a d-zone faceoff, make a big save, hustle back to make a good back check, or employ some hard work along the boards or in the corners – the sum of all of these little things added up to a big win for the Cyclones.

  Next up for the Cyclones will be a trio of challenging assignments this coming weekend. First off, they face a tough, talented and tenacious Kitchener Dutchmen squad. Game time is Friday, 7:30 p.m. at Memorial Arena. Saturday night the Cyclones travel to Cambridge for a 7:00 p.m. match against the Winterhawks at Galt Arena Gardens. The weekend trifecta wraps up Sunday night in Elmira against the high rolling Sugar Kings. Game time is 7:00 p.m.

 Cyclones fans this is a golden chance to watch some hockey at its best. Get your tickets, make your way to the arena and cheer on the Red, White and Black. It is the Coolest Game in Town.

 GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Cyclones Are Cyclonic in 6-0 Win Over Brantford

After a sub-Cyclonic performance in their last game in Stratford, the Cyclones took to home ice against Brantford and rebounded with a stellar 6-0 whitewash of the Eagles. In doing so the Cyclones exacted a measure of redemption and helped themselves to solidify a temporary hold on 4^th position in the Midwest Conference of the GOJHL. Tonight’s game was a full team effort with everyone chipping in and doing their job by supplying some offence, scoring, some hitting, defence, PK, PP and tossing some roundhouse rights as the situation required. Speaking of offence, the Cyclones pounded 50 shots at Brantford netminder Stephen Heming. Meanwhile Will Sibley was unblemished in the Cyclones net, turning away all 35 Brantford shots and earning his second shutout of the season. For the Cyclones, the key to earning the “Wâ€Â� in this game was teamwork and the assertive use of speed, hustle and physical play by the entire team.  Prior to tonight’s game a Cyclones fan commented that a team’s ability to succeed can be measured by the depth and strength shown by its 3^rd and 4^th line players. Tonight’s game was proof positive of that indeed.

 There was no scoring in the opening 20 minutes but there was at least one decent scoring chance for both teams. Ryan Horvat had the best chance for the Cyclones after gathering in a weak side rebound but he could not pull the trigger fast enough on the edge of Heming’s crease. At the other end, Will Sibley snared a puck that was redirected by Dalton Riley. Shots on goal were 13 for Listowel and 10 for Brantford.

 In the second period the Cyclones pelted the Brantford net with 21 shots and hit the inside of the twine on 3 of those shots. On the play leading up to the 1^st goal, David Dalby took a shot from atop the right wing face off circle that was blocked by a Brantford player. Dalby quickly retook possession of the puck and wired another shot at the net. This time the puck found its way through traffic, and it seemed to dip in midair as it passed through the crease and past Heming. At the time the goal was credited to Brett McGuinness (puck redirected?) with assists to Dalby and Jordan Turcotte. Shortly after that goal, things started to get interesting in the Cyclones end as they were awarded 3 straight penalty calls, including a 5 on 3 PK situation of that lasted for 1 minute and 40 seconds. The Cyclones PK led by Sibley, Dalby, Mc Guinness et al  kept the Eagles at bay. At 15:06 the Eagles were found guilty of having too many men on the ice during a poorly executed line change. 52 seconds later the Cyclones made the Eagles pay for their faux pas with a power play goal from Joel Bowman. Mac Nichol worked the puck to Tyler Evoy who then made a nice feed from the left wing half boards to the blue line. From there Number 6 made a smart play by aiming a well directed and simple shot through traffic that had everyone beat. After that goal the Cyclones poured it on and continued to hunt for more, coming close several times. Their persistence was rewarded at 19:22 when Brett Mc Guinness won a faceoff at the right wing circle and Pat Bell pounced on the loose puck – rifling a shot past a startled Heming for his team leading 10^th goal of the 2010 - 2011campaign. On the ensuing face off, a disagreement about the velocity of Bell’s shot (or perhaps a debate about the Canadian debut of KFC’s new double down sandwich?) prompted the Cyclones Ty Bilcke and the Eagles Sam Milligan to toss their gloves and sticks and then put up their dukes. At center ice, the 16 year old rookie from Exeter and the veteran 20 year old from Brantford squared off, tagging tagged each other with some heavy handed swats, battling each other to a draw. Milligan made the mistake of removing his own helmet before engaging in the fisticuffs with Bilcke. For that action, Milligan was tagged with an additional penalty and a gross misconduct penalty, along with the fighting major and game misconduct.

 44 seconds into the third period, the veteran Milligan and his Eagles teammates paid for the centre ice scrap after Brett Catto scored a very “picturesqueâ€Â� power play goal. Will Sibley and Mac Nichol created the break out play as they worked the puck to the smooth skating forward from Kincardine. With the Eagles defenders backpedalling hard through neutral ice and towards their own blue line, Number 17 gave a smooth series of “dipsy - doodle - how - you - al l –doin – thereâ€Â� moves before roofing a blistering wrist shot from the hash marks. SWEET !!!! More Cyclonic team work followed after that at 9:32. This time it was Captain Bobby Cook causing havoc inside the Brantford zone. Number 16 created a turnover inside the blue line and smartly fed a pass to a wide open Brett Catto. For an encore, Number 17 undressed Heming with a deke and roofed a back handed shot on the blocker side. YIPPEEE!!!!!! Clearly demoralized, the Eagles were playing the final 10 minutes like a team defeated . The Eagles’ already unpleasant evening was made worse when they were caught breathless at the end of a very long shift inside their own zone. At the 13:00minute mark, Spencer Turcotte rounded out the scoring after he and line mates Ryan Horvat and Caleb Cameron combined to smother the Eagles with more relentless fore checking and physical play along the boards and in the corners. Good Work Men !!!

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Brett McGuinness - Number 12 put in a full game’s work with more excellent effort on the PK;  and depending on how the official score sheet looks, either 1G or 1A or 2 A. The Stratford native had a superb game at both ends of the ice for the Cyclones and his continued hard work and effort will be called upon time and again as the season progresses.

 2 Points: David Dalby - Number 9 also put forth another solid on ice showing for the Red, White and Black; keeping the opposition off balance on the PK and helping create the chances that led to the all important first goal of the hockey game.

 1 Point: Joel Bowman – Number 6 scored the 1^st of 2 Cyclones power play goals and played another steady game in the defensive zone; using his gritty and pesky style of play to keep Brantford off of the score sheet. It does not always have to be highlight reel stuff and doing the little things right will add up to getting the job done.

 1 Point: Will Sibley – Number 33 had a tidy 35 save performance to earn the shut out and as an added bonus, he collected his first point as a Cyclone, assisting on the 2^nd Cyclones power play goal. It was all in a game day’s work for the veteran net minder.

 Next up for the Cyclones will be a 7:00 p.m. Sunday night rematch against Waterloo in the Rec Complex. After letting a potential win slip out of reach in their 1^st encounter of the season against the Siskins, the Cyclones will feel that they have some unfinished business to take care of. Count on all hands in Red, White and Black being ready to play a full 60 minutes of Cyclonic hockey.

 GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Cullitons Come Out Strong & Finish Strong in 6-2 Win

After a full out team effort and victory against Elmira on Friday night, the Cyclones travelled into Stratford looking for a similar result in their Sunday night match against the Cullitons. After falling behind 2-0 in the first period, the Cyclones managed to draw level at 2-2 early in the second period. From that point onward the skates fell off of the Cyclones express as they fell behind by a 4-2 score after 40 minutes; and after 60 minutes it was a 6-2 margin of defeat. Both teams registered 36 shots on goal, the Cyclones were 1 for 6 on the power play and 3 for 3 in the penalty killing department. The Cullitons did more of everything to secure the win as the Cyclones showed flashes of success but could not put together a full 60 minute team effort.

  The Cullitons leapt out in front 30 seconds after the opening face – off, with a centering pass from behind the net into the hash marks, which was quickly buried. The hosts’ lead increased to 2-0 after a puck battle was won in the left wing corner, a left wing point shot was redirected from the edge of the blue paint at the right side of the net. 30 seconds later the Cyclones got onto the score sheet at 13:23. After some Cyclonic work in the Stratford zone by Joel Bowman and Brett Catto, Caleb Cameron swept in his own rebound, cutting the lead in half.

 In the second period the Cyclones registered the only power play goal of the game at 7:02. Brett Catto and Mac Nichol combined to work the puck over to Joel Bowman, who snapped a shot from inside the blue line that drifted past everyone and into the twine. Brett Catto narrowly missed a chance to give the Cyclones the lead with a rocket wrist shot that whistled past the near post. After that chance the Cullitons scored twice in a span of 59 seconds. The first was at the end of a long shift that left the Cyclones trapped inside their own zone. The second goal resulted after a lead pass was misplayed by the Cyclones defence and then the puck was knocked out of the air and into the net.

 In the third period the Cullitons took advantage of the Cyclones who were pinching deep in an attempt to close the 2 goal gap. A broken 2 on 1 rush was salvaged with a second effort and the 5^th goal was knocked in. The final goal of the game was scored shorthanded after a misplayed puck behind the Cyclones net.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Joel Bowman - Number 6 had the Gordie Howe Hat trick with a goal, an assist and a scrap; and by so doing he led his team by example at both ends of the rink. Joel leads all Cyclones blue liners with 3 G and 7 A in 14 games thus far in the season.

 2 Points: Brett Catto - Number 17 had 2 assists and was the Cyclones most consistent forward throughout the entire game. Brett is 6^th in team scoring with 2G and 9 A in 7 games.

 1 Point: David Dalby - used his speed, skill and hustle to lead an effective 3 for 3 penalty killing effort.  David came close to rapping in a “shortyâ€Â� on a on a pair of separate chances.

 Despite the loss there were some good things happening out on the ice for the Cyclones. The lessons learned from this game and the continued efforts of the Red, White and Black will serve them well as the season moves forward. No championships or awards are handed out in October but the reasons for making an effort to work hard in every game between now and the end of the season will become self evident once the playoffs begin in March.

 Next action for the Cyclones will be Friday night for a 7:30 p.m. home game against Brantford; followed by a 7:00 p.m. road game at the Waterloo Rec Complex against the Siskins on Sunday. The standings are tight and the Cyclones need a big weekend if they are to stay ahead of both Brantford and Waterloo.

 GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Cyclones Win Cyclonic 6-3 Game Over Elmira

After a late Thursday night loss in Brantford the Cyclones rebounded in fine style and knocked the stuffing out of the Elmira Sugar Kings by a 6 – 3 margin. This was another closely contested affair as both teams battled hard for 60 grinding minutes of hard - nosed hockey. This game featured lots of everything for the fans to enjoy – fast pace, end to end scoring chances, hot goaltending, hard hits, grinding and mucking in the corners – everything except a Gordie Howe Hat Trick. As predicted earlier, the Sugar Kings brought their usual assortment of hustle, speed, skill, sand paper and stick work to Memorial Arena and played hard for a full 60 minutes. Credit the Cyclones for responding in kind and not backing down or being intimidated by the challenge.

 The Sugar Kings gained the upper hand with a power play goal at 4:40 of the 1^st period. Andrew Smith redirected a left point shot through a crowd off the near post and in. The Cyclones bounced back with a PP goal of their own at 13:44. Tyler Evoy ripped a shot into the yawning cage after Captain Bobby Cook’s shot hit the post and the rebound was grabbed by Tanner Simpson to set up Evoy’s goal. Both teams engaged themselves in a pitched end to end battle for the rest of the opening 20 minutes. Elmira held a 16 to 12 shots on goal margin.

 In the second period the Cyclones out shot Elmira by a 17 – 11 margin and outscored them by a 2-1 margin also. The Cyclones started the period on the power play and 36 seconds from the opening face - off, Blake Thompson swooped into the crease to knock in a loose puck and give his team the lead. Brett Catto and Joel Bowman each drew assist after initiating the play with some good puck movement and the original shot on goal. Elmira was quick to respond with the tying goal at 1:53. A late fore check attempt allowed the Sugar Kings to move the puck up ice and gain the zone. A Cyclones defender then lost an edge and went sliding into the corner, allowing the Sugar Kings to gain position inside the zone and set up the play. Spencer MacCormack took the pass and from close range he buried it behind Brian Hainsworth. At 4:44 Jeff Bauer helped put the Cyclones back into the lead with a nifty backhand that fooled Elmira goaltender Nic Horrigan on the glove side. Cyclonic fore-checking and hustle along the boards and in the corners by Pat Bell and Brett McGuinness was instrumental in setting up the play and the sweet shot by Bauer made it all look very poetic. Excellent team work Men!!! At the other end the Sugar Kings continued to press but were turned away by the Cyclones defensemen, and by the stellar goaltending of Brian Hainsworth who flashed leather and pads to make some solid saves to keep the Elmira snipers at bay.

 In the third period the Cyclones were quick to gain the upper hand with an even strength goal at 15 seconds. To this point in the game Brett Catto had been a thorn in the Sugar Kings side all night; and was more than happy jam and twist that thorn a little deeper with a sharp angled shot to make it a 4 -2 score. Caleb Cameron and Tyler Evoy teamed up to win the draw and get the puck deep into the Elmira zone to help set up the scoring play. Both teams engaged in a close checking style of play for the next 7 minutes until Elmira won a face-off inside the Cyclones zone, where Zach Solomon scooped up the loose puck and rifled a shot inside the hash marks. The Sugar Kings sensed a comeback and pushed hard for the equalizer but those ideas fell apart at 14:25 when Tyler Evoy accepted a generous turnover by Elmira’s Nic Horrigan and slammed it into the back of Horrigan’s net. A questionable penalty call at 17:48 worked into the Cyclones favor as it allowed Brett Mc Guinness to set up David Dalby, who then barreled into the Elmira end, and then absorbed several chops to the arms and wrists before hitting the empty net short-handed goal at 17:56.

 The final shot totals were Elmira 44 and Listowel 43. The visitors went 1 for 4 on the PP while the home side went 2 for 4 on the PP.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Brian Hainsworth – Number 1was solid in the blue paint for the Cyclones turning aside 41 of 44 Elmira shots and was unfazed by the Sugar Kings constant chopping and poking in the crease. Brian made some very key saves at key times in the game to help give his team the added boost that they needed to gain the upper hand against their opponent.

 2 Points: Tyler Evoy - Number 11 had 2 goals and 1 assist for the Cyclones and had another steady game for the Red, White and Black. The Sault Ste. Marie native currently has 7 goals and 8 assist to lead the team in scoring with 15 points in 13 games.

 1 Point: Brett Catto – Number 17 is rounding into Cyclonic form with 1 goal and 1 assist, to put his stats at 9 points in 6 games. Brett has the ability to make the hard plays look easy and often gives opposing d-men and forwards fits with his competitive and combative style of play.

 1 Point: Blake Thompson – Number 4 had another fine game performance at both ends of the ice including his first Junior B goal. The Listowel native is serving notice that he is certainly capable of handling all challengers in the Midwest Conference of the GOJHL.

 On the Sunday the Cyclones will regroup and travel to Stratford for another battle against the Cullitons. Expect another pitched battle as these two teams are in high gear and are looking to get a leg up on each other in the early season standings.

 Game time at the William Allman Memorial Arena is 7:30 p.m. make the trip to Stratford Cyclones fans and cheer on the Red, White and Black to victory.

 GO CYCLONES GO!!!

Brantford Beat Cyclones 5-3 With Empty Netter

On Thursday night the Cyclones and the Brantford Golden Eagles squared off against each other at Lions Park Arena. This is only their 2^nd meeting this season but already both squads have a definite dislike of each other. The game was very physical and with 4 lead changes in the game it was a very evenly played 60 minute contest. The Cyclones tried very hard to dial up a win in the Telephone City but got a busy signal, falling on the short end of a 5-3 score.

 Cyclones Captain Bobby Cook opened the scoring with a 1^st period PP goal followed by a Brantford PP goal to tie the game a 1’s midway through the opening period. Patrick Bell sniped an even strength goal late in the first period to allow the Cyclones to retain the lead.

 In the second period, two Brantford goals in the span of 26 seconds quickly turned the tables in favor of the Golden Eagles. Ryan Horvat’s even strength unassisted marker at 18:27 tied the game at 3’s and appeared to have been the tonic needed to put the Cyclones back on track. With less than 10 ticks left on the second period clock, a seemingly harmless Cyclones shot on the Brantford net was followed by a snow job, then a melee at the Brantford crease, and then penalties, and then face off deep in the Cyclones zone, and then the eventual game winning goal after a 4 second Brantford power play. Blink and you miss all the action!!!

 The Cyclones battled for position inside the Brantford zone during the third period in an effort to tie the game but they could not get enough of a foothold to find the back of the twine and tie the game up again. The 5^th opposition goal was surrendered empty net style with 26 seconds left in the 3^rd period.

 Players assisting on the Cyclone goals were Tanner Simpson, Tyler Evoy, Jeff Bauer, and Brett McGuinness.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Bobby Cook - The Captain had 1 goal and satchel full of spark and vinegar as he led his team by example, battling hard to the final buzzer..

 2 Points: Pat Bell - Number 20 scored the 2^nd Cyclones goal and was another key contributor to the Cyclones game in this contest..

 1 Point: Ryan Horvat – Number 14 scored the 3^rd Cyclones goal and was a workhorse on the PK.

 In the meantime, the Cyclones will quickly regroup and bring in a fresh order of speed, science and extra coarse sandpaper as they get ready to come out spinning and churning on Friday night against a tough, talented and rowdy squad from Elmira.

 GO CYCLONES!!!

 Cyclones Lose 5-3 To Leamington At Showcase Tourney

On Thanksgiving Sunday the Cyclones had their hands full with a pesky and opportunistic Leamington Flyers squad. After a hard  fought game the Cyclones found themselves on the short end of a 5 – 3 score. The game was played at the St Mary’s Pyramid Centre as part of the GOJHL showcase weekend hosted this year by the St. Mary’s Linclons of the Western Conference.

 The Cyclones had their game plan in place from the opening face - off and for the first half of the match it was working just fine. On the strength of some good offensive zone play and a stifling blanket defense, the Cyclones had scratched out a 2-0 lead and were pushing for more but could not break out and find that elusive 3^rd goal. Meanwhile, Leamington was able to take advantage of a pair of rare defensive lapses to tie the game past the midway point of the second 20 minute set. The Cyclones fought back to regain the lead late in the second period only to surrender another goal 54 seconds later. Both teams came out hard in the 3^rd period but it was Leamington who won the day scoring an early 3^rd period go ahead goal and then sealed the win with a power play goal with under 12 minutes remaining. This was a very closely contested game between two evenly matched teams – a seven game playoff between both clubs would be a dandy.

 On one hand, it was a disappointing loss for the Cyclones who were looking for the 2 points and the prospect of gaining some ground on their Midwest Conference opponents. On the other hand, there are some very positive signs on the collective development of this team, so despite the loss, with some continued hard work and effort, there will definitely be something well worth looking forward to as this season progresses. This reporter could go into more detail, but hey, that would be giving it all away wouldn’t it now? ;) The best way to find out will be to catch the Cyclones in action where both you (and the opposition) can find out what the Red, White and Black will be up to next!!!

 The Cyclones grabbed a 1-0 lead after 20 minutes on the strength of a power play goal from Joel Bowman who lofted a wrist shot from the blue line that found its way into the twine at 7:48. Captain Bobby Cook and Brett Catto helped set up the goal with some good passing and puck movement. Leamington’s Kody Polin came close to tying the game on a breakaway but hit the near post with the first shot and the far post with the rebound shot. As a reward for his power play goal, Joel Bowman had his face planted into the glass of the end boards in the Cyclones zone. We continue to await a Check From Behind call from either official. A text book missed call.

 The Cyclones good habits carried over into period 2. Ty Bilcke set up the next Cyclones goal with some good fore checking and earns an unofficial assist. Bilcke’s efforts allowed Blake Thompson to work the puck down low to Spencer Turcotte who made a smart centering pass to David Dalby who by this time was free in the danger zone and redirected the puck into the twine. Cyclonic teamwork at its best. The Cyclones had a 2-0 lead at 8:54 and were hunting for more. 2 minutes later David Dalby had another shot from almost the same location but Leamington goaltender Colin Greely bailed out his Flyer mates by making a huge save at point blank range. Shortly after that save the Flyers went to work to tie the game. A 2 on 1 goal at 11:58 was followed by a short - handed goal at 13:31; and very quickly the pace of the structure of the game had changed.  The Cyclones regained the lead at 15:41 with another fine piece of Cyclonic team work. Blake Thompson jumped into the zone to keep the puck onside, then he dumped it deep into the corner for Brett Catto. Number 17 dangled the puck on a string waiting for his mates to get into position, before making a pass to Bobby Cook, who then made a quick pass to Tyler Evoy, who stuffed the disc in. The lead was very short lived as the Leamington got that goal back at 16:35.

 The Cyclones had a power play from the 2^nd period carry over into the opening minute of the 3^rd period but could not convert the chance. The Flyers gained momentum from that penalty kill and proceeded to shut the Cyclones down with the aforementioned 2 third period goals and a stifling defensive system.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Bobby Cook – had 2 assists and helped drive the Cyclones offence.

 2 Points: Brett Catto – also had 2 assists and was a key contributor to the Cyclones attack.

 1 Point: Tyler Evoy – scored one goal, his second in as many games

AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

 The Cyclones have another busy week ahead of them with 3 games in 4 days. Their week starts Thursday night in Brantford for an 8:30 game against the Eagles at Lion’s Park Arena. Friday night features a 7:30 home ice start against a tough Elmira Sugar Kings squad. Sunday night marks another trip into the William Allman Memorial Arena to battle the Cullitons. Game Time is 7:30.

 The Red, White and Black will need all of the energy, skill and grit that they can muster this week. Get down to the rink and cheer them on to victory. Go Cyclones!!!!!!

Cyclones Dominate Grey's In 8-0 Win

On Friday night, the Cyclones welcomed the Owen Sound Greys back to the GOJHL and then proceeded to shut out the Greys by an 8 -0 count. The orange and black clad visitors put up a stubborn and determined effort for 60 minutes but throughout the majority of the match the Red, White and Black wore them down like a dog chewing on a bone. The persistent pressure by the Cyclones led to breakdowns in the Owen Sound zone and the goals soon followed. The Cyclones pelted both Owen Sound net minders with a combined total of 55 shots while Will Sibley was sharp in repelling all 25 opposition shots. Neither team scored a power play goal as the Cyclones went 0 for 6 and Owen Sound went 0 for 4.

 The Cyclones got the goal scoring parade started early at 2:18 of the 1^st period when a flip shot from the right point by Chad Wood house was redirected by Caleb Cameron. More chances followed including a Bobby Cook breakaway that was stopped nicely by Michel Destro. The next Cyclone goal was produced after some good fore checking and second effort by Patrick Bell and Jeff Bauer. The duo trapped the puck inside the Owen Sound blue line, with Bell feeding a pass to Bauer who then slid a nice crisp shot along the ice and through traffic. The even strength goal was scored at 17:31 to give the home side a hard earned 2-0 lead. Brett Catto missed a chance to make that a 3-0 lead when his breakaway shot was thwarted by the left pad of Michel Destro.

 The start of the 2^nd period featured a good glove save by Will Sibley on Nikolas McIver and some heavy hits at both ends of the ice by both teams. The action in heavy traffic continued and led to the first of 4 Cyclones goals in the middle stanza. The Cyclones won a face off deep in the offensive zone, produced some shots and a scramble which ended in the back of the net. David Dalby scored his first Junior B goal at 7:04 with assists to both Spencer Turcotte and Ty Bilcke. Down 3-0 the Greys tried in vain for a goal and a shot at getting on the scoreboard but the Cyclones were able to launch an effective counter strike, catching their opponents up ice and out of position. Caleb Cameron and Brett Catto sent Tyler Evoy streaking into the Owen Sound end. With a defender draped all over him, Number 11 roared in and made a forehand – back hand move look easy for a 4-0 lead at 8:42.Sweet. Domingo Torrenueva took over for Michel Destro in the Owen Sound nets but his fate would be no better. A Cyclonic fore check resulted in goal number 5 at 15:05. Tyler Evoy and Brett Catto teamed up to buzz the Owen Sound zone and create some chaos. A feed to the front of the net was quickly roofed by Patrick Bell for his team leading 8^th goal of the season. Late in the period, Brett Mc Guinness made a pass up ice to Jeff Bauer and the duo roared in on a 2 on 1 rush. Using Brett as a decoy, Number 15 set himself up and ripped a sweet wrist shot inside the far post for the Cyclones 6^th goal at 19:39. Wow, what a shot!!!!

 In the third period, the Cyclones would add 2 more goals and Will Sibley made some very acrobatic saves at close range during the late stages of the game to preserve the shutout. Caleb Cameron scored at 8:21 after Jordan Turcotte walked the tightrope at the blue line before unleashing a shot and producing a rebound that was swiped at by Ryan Horvat, before the puck was rapped in by Number 10. Then at 9:56 Brett Mc Guinness knocked in a loose puck from the left wing face-off circle after Jeff Bauer and Joel Bowman helped set up the play.

  The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Jeff Bauer - Number 15 led the Cyclones scoring with 2G and 1A and came very close to scoring two more on the night.

 2 Points: David Dalby – Number 9 scored his first goal as a Cyclone and it was his first junior B goal to boot. The hard working forward had another steady 2 way on ice performance.

 1 Point: Will Sibley – Number 33 was full value for his 1^st shut out in a Cyclones uniform and made some sharp saves throughout the full 60 minutes of this game.

Cyclones Outshoot Siskins By Double But Lose 4-3

On Saturday night the Cyclones came close but could not find the finishing touches around the net that they needed and as a result they were edged by a 4-3 margin at the Waterloo Rec Complex. The Red, White and Black pelted Siskins goaltender Justis Husak with 43 shots but could not find a way to capitalize on their chances to secure the “Wâ€Â�. Husak made some key saves late in the game and at the other end of the rink Husak’s teammates played a steady, patient and persistent game; scoring the winner with under 5 minutes to play in the third period. Despite carrying the edge in territorial play and despite holding a 43 to 20 shots on goal advantage, the Cyclones could not collectively get the job done to translate their efforts into a win. The big names from last year’s Waterloo team have departed but the persistent work ethic instilled by the coaching staff still remains intact.  If given the chance to “do this one overâ€Â� the Cyclones might do a few things differently in order to produce an outcome that is more to their liking.

 Both teams traded goals in the first period. The Siskins drew first dibs with an even strength goal at 12:01 as Eric Jackson and Chris Chapman trapped a turnover just inside the Cyclones blue line and worked the puck to open ice for the easy goal by Kevin Billings. The Cyclones responded on the power play at 17:33 when Joel Bowman laid a crisp pass onto the stick of Ryan Horvat. Number 14 streaked down the left wing, cut into the hash marks and roofed a smart wrist shot to make it a 1-1 game.

 In the second period both teams continued their “cat and mouseâ€Â� game. The Siskins went ahead at 3:35 when Alex Beaulne ripped a shot from the high slot after Adam Campagnolo and Troy Williams won the battle for the loose puck that was created due to some effective Waterloo fore checking. The Cyclones tied the game again 80 seconds later with an even strength goal. Tanner Simspson grabbed his own rebound off the pads of Husak and slammed it between the pads – assists to Ryan Horvat and  Blake Thompson. The Cyclones tried to gain the upper hand with some concentrated pressure inside the Siskins zone but Husak was solid. On the counter attack the Siskins charged down the ice with a 3 on 2 rush and converted their chance into a 3-2 lead. Mitch Facey scored on the set up by Scott Nagy and Justin Auger. The Cyclones tied the game again with their second power play goal of the game at 14:24. Captain Bobby Cook took the combined feed from Jordan Turcotte and Caleb Cameron, and quickly roofed the puck into the mesh.

 In the third period the Cyclones pushed to gain the go ahead goal but it was not meant to be. Similar to the previous 40 minutes, the Cyclones buzzed the net and had several choice chances but could not bury the biscuit. The home side found their way to the winning goal with 4:27 left in the 3^rd period. Troy Williams set up Alex Beaulne for a rifle shot and his 2^nd goal of the game.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Ryan Horvat - Number 14 led the Cyclones scoring with 1G and 1A and a steady two way effort.

 2 Points: Bobby Cook - The Captain scored one goal and also had a steady effort for the Cyclones.

 1 Point: David Dalby - Number 9 had an effective game in the offensive zone and on the PK using his speed, skill and Cyclonic energy to the max.

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

 The Cyclones hit the ice again on Friday at 7:30p.m. against the Owen Sound Greys. After a year hiatus the Greys have returned for another season in the Midwest Conference of the GOJHL.

 Then on Sunday the Cyclones will travel to the Pyramid Centre in St. Mary’s to take on a revitalized Leamington Flyers squad. This game is at 5:00 p.m. and it is part of the annual GOJHL Showcase tournament.

 Come out to the rink Cyclones fans and cheer on the Red, White & Black to victory. Let’s Go Cyclones!!!!

Cyclones Dominate in 7-1 Over Fort Erie

The Cyclones “movedâ€Â�  themselves into a tie for second place in the Midwestern Conference of the GOJHL with a 7 – 1 thrashing of the Fort Erie Meteors at Memorial Arena. The Cyclones put forth a solid team effort from all quarters to earn their 5^th victory in 8 games and currently they stand tied with Elmira at 10 points, 5 behind 1^st place Guelph. The Hurricanes have played 9 games and Elmira 6 games so far this season.

 The game marked the return of 3 very familiar faces to the Cyclones lineup.

 Mac Nichol (#8), Ryan Horvat (#14) and Brett Catto (#17) have all returned to the Cyclones fold. The addition of this trio of fine young men and hockey players bolsters an already plentiful, talented and hardworking Cyclones lineup. Welcome back and welcome aboard to the players and their families!!!

 The Cyclones were in full control from the outset building leads of 2-0 after twenty minutes and 6-0 after forty minutes. The Cyclones special teams put forth a tidy effort of 9 for 9 on the PK and 2 for 11 with the man advantage. Brian Hainsworth stopped 26 of 27 Fort Erie shots meanwhile the Red, White and Black peppered the Meteors goaltending tandem of Vincent Merante and Tim Egloff with a total of 53 shots.

 Brett Catto led the Cyclones scoring machine with 1G and 2A, Tyler Evoy 1G and 1 A, Mac Nichol, Ryan Horvat and Jeff Bauer each had 2 A . Single goals were counted by Caleb Cameron, Captain Bobby Cook, Pat Bell, and Spencer Turcotte and Michael Smailes with his first of the season. Single assists were registered by Brett McGuinness, Jordan Turcotte and Ty Bilcke.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Brett Catto - The Kincardine native registered 1G and 2A in his season debut. Cyclone fans will recall his 2008-2009 rookie season as part of the “Young Gunsâ€Â� forward line alongside Braedon Rigney and Miles MacLean and a solid 2009 playoff performance with 3 G and 8A.

 2 Points: Ryan Horvat - The Simcoe native chipped in with 2 assists and gives the Cyclones added grit, tenacity and scoring punch up front.  Ryan looks to build upon his success of last season and will undoubtedly make his Cyclonic presence felt in every game.

 1 Point: Mac Nichol - The Listowel native registered 2 assists and brings added depth and experience to the Cyclones blue line. Number 8 can play the game very well in both ends of the rink and both his style of play and his presence will fit in very well with the Cyclones game plans.

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

 Cyclones fans, get your Flex Pass tickets, bring your friends and to come to the rink and see this team in action. The season is barely 1 month old but once again tonight’s game performance has demonstrated that this young and energetic Cyclones team has the talent and the smarts to compete and battle hard in every game.

 Moving along to the next game on Saturday night, the Cyclones travel to the Rec Centre in Waterloo to meet the Siskins for a 7:30 p.m. match up. The Cyclones will need another energetic and up tempo 60 minute effort from their entire line up if they are to secure the 2 points.

 Come out to the rink Cyclones fans and cheer on the Red, White & Black to victory. Let’s Go Cyclones!!!!

Cambridge Mount 3rd Period Comeback for 5-3 Win

In the Cambridge leg of the home and home series against the Winterhawks, the Cyclones had leads of 2-1 and 3-2 but could not fend off the hard charging Winterhawks and were defeated by a 5-3 margin. Both teams are very evenly matched and for the second game in a row; that transformed itself onto the ice as both teams battled back and forth all game long.

 Both teams battled to a scoreless draw after 20 minutes. Both goaltenders were on their game as the Winterhawks Jeff Flagler and Cyclones Will Sibley were sharp throughout making several quality saves. Sibley robbed several Cambridge snipers from close range including a shorthanded breakaway try.

 The Cyclones had a 2-1 lead after 40 minutes. Caleb Cameron buried  a Brett Mc Guiness pass from the right wing corner at the 1:47 mark – an even strength goal. The battle for the loose puck was won by Brett and a nice crisp pass was converted in Cyclonic style by Number 10 from Sunny Sundridge. At 3:09 the Cyclones managed to get their power play going with an assertive rush into the zone. Text book tic tac toe passing by Pat Bell and Jeff Bauer put the puck onto the stick blade of Tanner Simspson who made no mistake on the pretty play. B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L! The Cyclones and Winterhawks then decided to get physical and the hosts battled back with an even strength goal of their own at 11:36. Joel Bowman had hustled back hard to break up the initial rush by John Kavanaugh, but Kavanaugh worked the puck to a wide open Josh Timpano knocked in his own rebound after Will Sibley made a sensational initial save.

 The third period started rough for the Cyclones after a bouncy puck rattled around the end boards, hopped over the goal stick of Will Sibley and onto the stick of Chad Hennum. From behind the icing line in the right wing corner, Hennum was fortunate enough to direct his shot off of a leg and into the open cage as Sibley was caught scrambling to get back into position. The Cyclones regained the lead with their 2^nd power play goal at 3:17. Jeff Bauer led the charge down the left wing and deep inside the zone he provided a perfect pass to Tanner Simpson for the redirect past Jeff Flagler. The Winterhawks responded with a power play goal of their own at 7:59 from Jordan Benton who let fly with a shot inside the blue line that found its way through traffic and into the back of the net. The game breaker came at 10:19 with an unassisted dash by John Kavanaugh. The ex - Saginaw Spirit forward used his size and speed to gain open ice inside the Cyclones zone and unopposed he used a toe drag move to beat shake off the defenders before unleashing a shot that beat Will Sibley. Chad Hennum sealed the deal for the home side with an empty net goal at 19:32 that was assisted by Josh Timpano, and Bob’s your uncle.  

 The final game totals for Cambridge were: 31 shots on goal and 1 power play goal; and for the Cyclones: 30 shots on goal and 2 power play goals.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 points: Will Sibley - Number 33 had another stellar game in goal for the Cyclones making several big stops throughout the contest. Will kept his team in contention for the full 60 minutes and made several tough saves look easy.   

 2 Points: Jeff Bauer  - The youngster from Lambeth helped set up 2 Cyclones goals and once again Number 15 was very effective all game long using his defensive and offensive skills to create scoring chances. Cyclones fans keep your eye on this player as the season progresses.

 1 Point: Tanner Simpson - Big Number 22 used his size and muscle to drive hard to the net and bagged two goals for his efforts to put the finish touches on some good set up plays. In his second year in the GOJHL Tanner is finding his groove early and looks forward to making more good things happen this season.

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

 Next up for the Cyclones is a Friday night home ice tilt against the Fort Erie Meteors of the Golden Horseshoe Conference. The Meteors are searching for their first win of the season and will be looking to grab that elusive “Wâ€Â� at Memorial Arena. Game time is 7:30 p.m.

 Come out to the rink Cyclones fans and cheer on the Red, White & Black to victory. Let’s Go Cyclones!!!!

Cycs Don't Give Up And Win 5-4 Over Cambridge

After building a 3-0 lead and watching it evaporate into a 4-3 deficit, the Cyclones managed to find a way to come from behind to defeat Cambridge in their first match of the season. The Cyclones will be the first to admit that this was not a full 60 minute effort but it was just enough to get the job done…..by the very slimmest of margins. To some observers it was as if three games within a game had been played. Kitchener native Brian Hainsworth made the start in goal for the Cyclones – his first Junior B start – and helped anchor the defensive effort stopping 30 of 34 shots. Up front Jeff Bauer bagged his first two goals of his Junior B career – the 1^st to tie the game midway into the 3^rd period, and the 2^nd to win the game late in the 3^rd period. Over recent years, the Cyclones & Winterhawks have had a fairly intense rivalry, including 2 memorable 7 game playoff series in 2006 and 2008. By all accounts of this game, it would appear that a fresh, new chapter is being written towards this longstanding and long distance rivalry.

 The first period of the game was fast and end to end. The Cyclones registered 16 shots on goal and held a hefty 3-0 lead after 20 minutes. The Winterhawks launched 12 shots on goal but seemed to be reeling in the wake of the Cyclonic play from the home team. 3^rd year blue liner Joel Bowman got the home team started off on the right skate with his first goal of the season at 4:57. The Atwood native intercepted a cross ice pass in the neutral zone, regained his balance, roared into the Cambridge zone and rifled a rocket wrist shot past a startled Jeff Flagler in the Cambridge net. The Cyclones upped their lead to 2-0 with another unassisted scoring play. After a brief battle for the puck against a Cambridge defender, Pat Bell emerged with the puck from the right wing corner inside the Cambridge zone. For his 6^th goal in 6 games, the Grand Valley native worked his way into open ice, squared himself to the net, and had the time and space needed to rip a high hard shot into the mesh at 13:51. Credit Cyclones forward Joel Alton with an unofficial assist as his hard work and hustle kept the puck inside the Cambridge zone and led directly to the puck battle that followed deep inside the Cambridge zone. After Cambridge missed a wide open chance for their first goal the Cyclones quickly turned the play back the other way. Cyclones rookie defender Jordan Turcotte grabbed a loose puck behind his own icing line and snapped a crisp pass up ice to Captain Bobby Cook. Number 16 roared up ice leading a on a 2 on 1 break and had ample time to wind up and hammer a shot that rocketed past Jeff Flagler at laser light speed. K-A-B-O-O-M!!!!! That goal was scored at the 15:57 mark and it seemed that the Cyclones were about to run away with this game very early on. Jeff Bauer almost snuck a shot through after making a nice toe drag move inside the Cambridge blue line, but Jeff Flagler caught enough of the puck with his pads to keep it out and avoid a 4-0 deficit. At the other end of the ice, Brian Hainsworth made a nice cross crease sliding save after the Cyclones were caught napping and were almost burned on a 2 on 1 counter attack rush by Cambridge.

  In the second period, the Cyclones got themselves snared in penalty trouble and that scenario opened the door for Cambridge to get back into the game with 2 straight power play goals. At 5:26 John Kavanaugh knocked in a Chad Hennum rebound after Jake Dotchin made the initial shot from the right point. More penalties were called against both teams as it seemed the whole period was played on a power play or a penalty kill. Cambridge struck again at 10:49 when the right point shot of Mike Mezzano was deflected past a helpless Brian Hainsworth – assists by Rob Bennett and Chad Hennum. The Winterhawks came swooping in for more but soon had some penalty trouble of their own upon which the Cyclones could not capitalize. The two best Cyclones scoring chances to finish the 2^nd period were an end to end rush by Jeff Bauer and a partial break away by Ty “Bulldozerâ€Â� Bilcke that was chopped up by a slash from a Cambridge defender who was in hot pursuit.

 The third period did not start very well for the Cyclones when a neutral zone turnover led to the tying goal from Christian Barnard at 2:52. 3 minutes and 57 seconds later the situation grew worse for the home side when Cambridge took the lead. The Cyclones had dodged a 5 on 3 penalty kill and were 1 second away from escaping with a clean sheet but Christian Barnard set up a left point shot for Jake Dotchin that found its way through traffic and into the back of the net. Cambridge had grabbed the upper hand and seemed poised to strike again with another goal in order to finally put this game out of reach. In the face of this adversity the Cyclones continued to resist and attack the Cambridge zone. Undaunted the Cyclones continued to press for a tying goal. Caleb Cameron’s attempt to bust in alone into the Cambridge zone resulted in a Cambridge holding penalty. To the chagrin of the Cyclones and the delight of the Winterhawks this power play did not yield any results for the home side. Unfazed, the Cyclones continued to press the Cambridge net. Jeff Bauer had his attempts stopped and later on David Dalby’s 5 hole shot during a 2 on 1 rush just failed to squeak through the pads of Jeff Flagler. At 11:47, the Cyclones found their mark to tie the game at 4’s with a text book scoring play. Stratford native Chad Woodhouse started the text book scoring play by controlling the puck at the blue line and aiming a simple shot on net. Lucknow’s Tanner Simpson chopped at the rebound and in turn his rebound was then swatted in by Jeff Bauer. OH HOW S-W-E-E-E-E-E-T IT ISSSSSS!!!!! With renewed confidence the Cyclones regained the initiative that they had displayed so well in the opening 20 minutes of the game. This revitalized effort resulted in yet another power play chance when Captain Bobby Cook was hooked away from knocking in a sure goal at the doorstep of the Cambridge net. 59 seconds into the man advantage Pat Bell fed a quick pass to Jeff Bauer in the high slot where the skillful forward slapped a low and one timer that blazed past all Cambridge defenders and bulged the twine. Bell and Bauer nearly connected again on a 2 on 1 rush with 1:24 left but were foiled. Cambridge pulled their goaltender with 60 seconds left but that was all for naught when they drew a penalty and then they suffered the consequences of a botched icing call while shorthanded.

 The final game totals for Cambridge were: 34 shots on goal and 3 for 6 on the PP; and for the victorious Cyclones: 39 shots on goal and a very microscopic 1for 12 on the PP.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Jeff Bauer – The youngster from Lambeth potted his first 2 Junior B goals at a time when the rest of his team needed it the most. Number 15 was very effective all game long using his defensive and offensive skills to create scoring chances. It was no accident that Jeff was on the ice when the outcome of the game was hanging in the balance and it was no surprise as to the outcome.

 2 Points: Joel Bowman – Joel is quickly becoming the Cyclones handyman during the early stages of this season. Number 6 helped get the Cyclones scoring started with some good defensive work turned into offense; and was a Cyclonic influence at both ends of the rink in this game.

1 Point: Jordan Turcotte - The Walkerton native studied a page or two out of Joel Bowman’s playbook and displayed some fine offensive a defensive skills of his own. Number 24 had one assist and made some good plays inside his own zone to help contribute to the team’s 4^th win of the season.

 1 Point: Brian Hainsworth – The Kitchener native registered his first Junior “Bâ€Â� victory in his first goaltending start of the 2010-2011 season.  Number 1 had a steady 60 minute performance and was particularly sharp in stopping some dangerous Cambridge shots that were launched from both short and long range. 

AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

 Cyclones fans, get your Flex Pass tickets, bring your friends and to come to the rink and see this team in action. The season is barely 2 weeks old but once again tonight’s game performance has demonstrated that this young and energetic Cyclones team is willing to compete and battle hard in every game.

 On Sunday night, the Cyclones travel to Cambridge for a 7:00 p.m. rematch at the Galt Arena. If you have never been to the “Grand Old Lady on Shade Streetâ€Â� then now is the time to make the trip. It is one of the nicest places in Ontario to watch a hockey game.

 After one game between these two clubs, one can already sense an undertone of dislike between these two hockey clubs. If the Cyclones want to steal a road win away from the Winterhawks then they most certainly will have to put forth a solid 60 minute effort Sunday night in Cambridge. Period.

 Come out to the rink Cyclones fans and cheer on the Red, White & Black to victory. Let’s Go Cyclones!!!!

Cyclones Edge Dutchmen 3-2 on Tuesday Night

 The Cyclones found a way to get the job done with a hard earned 3-2 victory in Kitchener. As was previously prognosticated on this printed page, gathering the “Wâ€Â� from this contest was not an easy assignment for the youthful Cyclones. This hockey game was loaded to the nines with a smorgasboard of action - tons of speed, intense end to end action, stellar goaltending, bruising and bell ringing hits, a disallowed goal, all topped off by late game dramatics and heroics (Swedish meatballs extra). Both teams played a hard fought and evenly played match. If not for a string of 5 straight Kitchener penalties in the second period coupled with the simply sensational and Cyclonic 3^rd period net minding performance of Will Sibley, then the storyline of this game takes a different route and spins off onto a separate tangent altogether.

 In the first period both teams played a close checking game as they took the opening 20 minutes to size each other up for the first time this season. Both teams had 7 shots apiece and did a good job of keeping each other’s snipers in check. The best Cyclones scoring chance in this frame was had by Jeff Bauer who found himself all alone in front but his shot missed the target. The Cyclones defensive effort featured some good work from the PK unit who successfully fended off two minor penalties; Jordan Turcotte helped bail out a teammate who was stripped of the puck by a dangerous Dutchmen fore check; and Joel Bowman who helped his own cause by doubling back and using his upper body strength to rub out his man after having over skated the puck. Good hustle Men!!!

 Early in the second period Kitchener utilized some superior zone positioning deep inside the hash marks to generate a dangerous shot. Will Sibley showed some superior positioning and mobility of his own, sliding across the ice to make a sizzling pad save and deflect the puck out of harm’s way. Patrick Bell opened the scoring at 4:17 of the 2^nd period with his 5^th goal in as many games. Jeff Bauer and Caleb Cameron led a Cyclones counter attack into the Kitchener zone, with Bauer ripping a hard and low shot that whistled wide of the left wing post. Such was the power behind the shot that the puck bounced back off the end boards and out to the opposite side where it was quickly cradled and jammed in by Number 20.

 Smarting from that goal the Dutchmen started hitting everything in sight including taking a run at young Ty Bilcke. This hit definitely caught the attention of the hulking forward and team mate Joel Alton who both made a point of returning the favor with some bell ringing body checks of their own. C-R-U-N-C-H.

 At 15:31 the Cyclones upped their lead to 2-0 with an even strength goal created by a neutral ice turnover. The “buzz sawâ€Â� forward line of Caleb Cameron, Brett McGuinesss and David Dalby worked the trap to perfection to create the 2 on 1 break. Dalby grabbed the loose puck, worked it ahead to McGuinness for the shot and Cameron buried the rebound. Fans, it was a Cyclonic masterpiece!! Listowel dug Kitchener’s hole deeper with a power play goal at 18:23. Using some good puck movement inside the zone, Spencer Turcotte and Tyler Evoy worked the puck free to Captain Bobby Cook. Number 16 had time and space to shoot, collect his own rebound and then loft a high glove side shot that caught the far post and floated down into the net.

 With less than 2 minutes to play in the second period the Cyclones appeared to be in control of the game at this point but hold on!! Two straight Cyclones minor penalties within 46 seconds (including a very suspect hooking call) left the Men in Black two skaters short. The Dutchmen made the most of this chance scoring a 5 on 3 power play goal at 19:46 – their 3^rd and final shot on goal registered in the second period. Keegan Calder set up a Taylor D’Andrea point shot that slipped past a screened Will Sibley. After 40 minutes the Cyclones held a 3-1 lead but Kitchener had 89 seconds of 5 on 4 power play time left and the stage was now set for an interesting 3^rd period of hockey.

 5 minutes into the 3^rd period the Cyclones came very close to a 4-1 lead but the rebound could not be reached in time and stuffed into an open net. On the ensuing counter attack rush by the Dutchmen, Gian Paul and Delle Donne assisted Brandon Woods who roared in on goal and with a tremendous second effort knocked the puck in while falling down at the side of the net at 5:57. The Dutchmen were quickly back in the game and continued to prowl for another goal. Enter Will Sibley and his catching mitt, who committed grand larceny on Delle Donne on a shot that was unloaded inside the hash marks. An Incredible Save!!!!!!!!

 The Cyclones had a golden chance to salt the game away with their 6^th power play opportunity but could not generate anything useful in the way of a scoring chance. Shortly after that PP had expired, the Cyclones appeared to have found what they were looking for but Caleb Cameron’s shot would not count. The referee ruled that a Cyclone was in the crease before the shot was made and as such the goal was waved off immediately. The drama continues as the Cyclones remained clinging to a 1 goal lead and over half of the 3^rd period to play. Ty “Bulldozerâ€Â� Bilcke added to the drama by dishing out another pair of solid, clean bone jarring hits that sent the Dutchmen reeling into retreat. An “interestingâ€Â� high sticking call against the Cyclones at 12:41 breathed life back into the Kitchener attack. The Dutchmen unloaded everything that they had left in their weaponry but they were foiled by the Cyclones PK unit and more spectacular thievery from Will Sibley. At one point the Dutchmen tried to literally push the puck, players, goaltender and all into the net but Sibley held firm and would not be moved off of his line. Then the Dutchmen continued buzzing the net and had a 2 foot shot for the tying goal DENIED at the line by the goal stick of Sibley with an amazing save that left everyone in the building stunned and gasping in amazement. WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

From that point on the Cyclones killed off the remainder of penalty and then focused on using their speed, skill and positioning to shut down Kitchener for the remaining 5:19 of play.

 The final game totals for the Kitchener were: 21 shots on goal and 1 for 5 on the PP; and for the victorious Cyclones: 32 shots on goal and 1for 6 on the PP.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Will Sibley – The 20 year old net minder from Caledon put on ANOTHER goaltending clinic for the Cyclones with a 19 save performance. Will had a “quietâ€Â� game for 40 minutes but shone bright in the final 20 minutes to help protect the win. His glove save in the 8^th minute and his stick save with 6:31 left were both show stoppers and a game savers for the Cyclones. It is worth repeating that when there is a “Willâ€Â� in goal - then there’s always a Way to win.

 2 Points: Caleb Cameron – The smooth and speedy forward registered a goal and an assist in the victory. With continued game performances such as this there is no doubt that the native of sunny Sundridge will put his hometown on the map by season’s end.

 1 Point:  Joel Bowman – The Atwood native anchored the young blue line corps with another Cyclonic performance. Number 6 was a prominent presence at both ends of the ice, providing some muscle and finesse in a very closely contested match.

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

 Cyclones fans, get your Flex Pass tickets, bring your friends and to come to the rink and see this team in action. The season is barely 2 weeks old but this young and energetic Cyclones team is quickly showing that they will be fun to watch this season.

 The Cyclones will have precious little time to relish their latest victory before their next game arrives. On Friday night, the Cyclones host a rebuilt Cambridge Winterhawks squad . Game time is 7:30 p.m. at Listowel Memorial Arena.

 On Sunday night, the Cyclones travel to Cambridge for a 7:00 p.m. rematch at the Galt Street Arena. If you have never been to this venue to watch a hockey game then plan to make the trip. It is one of the nicest places in Ontario to watch a hockey game.

 If the Cyclones want to continue their winning ways then they will have to put forth another 60 minute effort against the Winterhawks. In the GOJHL and especially in the Midwest Conference, there are NO shortcuts to success.

 Come out to the rink Cyclones fans and cheer on the Red, White & Black to victory. Let’s Go Cyclones!!!!

 

Good Will was Great In 5-2 Win over Cullitons

Game On!!

 The continuing drama of the epic on ice battles between the Listowel Cyclones & Stratford Cullitons have resumed. The first chapter for the 2010 – 2011 season was written Sunday night at the William Allman Memorial Arena.

 Looking back to the 2009 -2010 season an outside observer could make the statement that judging by the Won – Loss  record alone,  the Cyclones pretty much had their own way with the Cullitons, winning 5of 7 regular season matches. Upon closer inspection, it must be said that each and every one of those 7 games was an exciting display of intense, fiercely competitive and pressure packed hockey that was unparalleled anywhere else in the GOJHL. No quarter was given by either squad as each and every game was a battle to see who was the fittest, the bravest and the strongest of heart.

 Tonight’s game was no exception.

Leading up to this game, both teams were smarting after losing their previous games. The Cyclones lost a 5-4 heart breaker in the final minute of their Friday night home ice bout with the defending Cherrey Cup Champions from Brantford. Meanwhile, the Cullitons had lost two in a row: a 3-2 Friday night home ice OT decision to a pesky Elmira Sugar Kings squad, followed by a 5-2 Saturday night drubbing at the Sleeman Centre courtesy of a rejuvenated Guelph Hurricanes squad.

 During the initial shifts of the opening period, both teams played a cautious game, testing each other out and sizing up the competition. 6 to 7 minutes into the opening period of the contest the Cullitons ratcheted up the pressure with some strong fore checking and steady offensive thrusts. The Cyclones responded with some air tight defensive work anchored by the stellar goaltending of Caledon native Will Sibley and leadership from 3^rd year blue liner Joel Bowman. Despite being outshot by the Cullitons at a 17 to 9 clip in the opening 20 minutes it was the Cyclones who held a 1 - 0 lead courtesy of a bouncy puck and some Cyclonic teamwork. Captain Bobby Cook grabbed a neutral zone turnover and wired a crisp pass onto the tape of Spencer Turcotte. The 16 year old from Mississauga accepted the veteran’s pass cleanly, and with the rest of the Cullitons caught out of position, he sped in all alone against Evan Groenestege, made a sick move and flipped the puck into the mesh at 19:47. B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L!!!

  The second period featured more of the same play as the latter part of the previous period. The Cullitons unloaded an 18 shot barrage at Will Sibley but were able to yield only one goal for their troubles. At 1:59 Brock Reynolds finished off a blue paint scramble with a goal mouth shot from the left wing post; after Andrew Barton & Steven Dol tried to get something to go in from the right wing post. In response, the Cyclones answered with not one, not two but three goals to take a commanding 4 – 1 lead after 40 minutes.

The theme for the Cyclones 2^nd goal was another bouncy puck and more Cyclonic teamwork. Almost every skater for both teams on the ice had a touch of the puck as it pin balled from one stick to the next. With Evan Groenestege laying flat on his belly, Bobby Cook was able to gather in a Tyler Evoy pass / rebound and rattle the puck across the red line for the most bizarre Cyclone goals of the young season. This goal came at the 9:15 mark and was followed by another conversation piece at 12:31. From behind the Cyclones net, blue liner Jordan Turcotte worked across ice pass to defense partner Chad Woodhouse. After taking a quick stride from behind the Cyclones icing line, the young defender drilled a terrific tape to tape pass to a wide open Patrick Bell at the Cullitons blue line. The sophomore power forward split between the two flat footed Culliton defenders, roared in alone on Evan Groenestege, made his move and flipped a sweet backhander into the twine at 12:31.The situation quickly got worse for the Cullitons as one of the tardy Cullitons defenders inadvertently knocked Bell into Groenestege after the goal was scored. The veteran netminder from Wartburg was shaken up to the point that he had to leave the ice with an undisclosed facial injury. Enter Derek Mitchell to hold the twine fort for the Cullitons. Not long afterwards at 16:21 the Cyclones upped their lead to a 4 – 1 margin. The play maker on this goal was power forward Tanner Simpson. Big #22 from Lucknow used his size, strength and skill to drive down the left wing side, gain the zone, simultaneously fend off his check and swoop behind the net in one motion, and emerge from the right wing side with a sweeping shot. The rebound was grabbed by Jeff Bauer but the Lambeth native’s  shot was stopped by the left pad of Derek Mitchell. Cue Patrick Bell who made his home town of Grand Valley proud – making no mistake as he tucked the puck inside the left post. 

In the third period the Cullitons lit up the Cyclones for another 18 shots on goal but once again could only manage one goal – this time a power play goal by Steven Dol at 18:17. The former Delhi Traveller and Junior D sniper was able to gather in an Andrew Barton rebound and beat Will Sibley with a screened shot, after Liam Maaskant  had started the play with a point shot from the right wing side. 67 seconds before that scoring play, with the Cullitons goal tender pulled, Jordan Turcotte scored his second goal of the season assisted by another bounce supplied from the Hockey Gods. The Walkerton native and former Junior “Câ€Â� Hawk swept the puck out of his zone with a hard bank shot that was directed along the ice and towards the boards at centre ice. After glancing off of the boards at a sharp angle, the disc hit the skate of a Cullitons player and continued to slide gently and silently down the length of the ice - veering directly towards the yawning cage and across the goal line. Magnifico!!!!   The sharks manning the pool tables downtown at Sid’s Pub / The Pour House could not have called a better shot off of the rail than this one J.

 The final game totals for the Cullitons were: 53 shots on goal and 1 for 5 on the PP; and for the victorious Cyclones: 34 shots on goal and 0 for 4 on the PP.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

 3 Points: Will Sibley – The 20 year old net minder from Caledon put on a goaltending clinic for the Cyclones with a 51 save performance. When there is a “Willâ€Â� in goal - then there’s always a Way to win.

 2 Points: Joel Bowman & Patrick Bell – Both players played like Titans during the match and stepped it up for each shift. Joel helped support his goal tender and the rest of his mates, logging a ton of ice time at both ends of the rink. Patrick bagged two big goals and also logged a ton of ice time during the PK, PP and at even strength.

 1 Point: Awarded to all of the remaining Cyclones on the game sheet roster. Despite having allowed 53 shots on goal, the team competed, played hard and brought enough collective jam to the rink to make it tough enough for this reporter to select one player over another. It was a fine 60 minute group effort; as the team rose together to meet the challenge of having to secure a very important road win in one of the toughest GOJHL buildings to play in - bar none. Bravo Cyclones!!!!!

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

The Cyclones will have precious little time to relish this victory before their next game arrives. On Tuesday night, the Cyclones tangle with the Kitchener Dutchmen. Game time is 7:00 p.m. on the very spacious and expansive ice surface at the Kinsmen Arena in Kitchener.

 The Dutchmen teams of recent years have possessed a devilish combination of skill and speed which is peppered with an aggressive “in – your – faceâ€Â�, scrappy style of play. Early on, it appears that this trend has continued into the start of this season . With that said, it will be very important for the Cyclones to be fully prepared, rise up together to face the next challenge; and compete for another full 60 minutes (and more if necessary).

 Make the short drive into Kitchener and cheer on the Red, White & Black to victory.

Brantford Scores With 11 Seconds Left For Win

In their first home game against the defending 2009-2010 Cherrey Cup Champions, the Cyclones battled toe – to – toe and stride - for - stride against the Brantford Golden Eagles but ended up on the short end of a 5 – 4 score. Ilderton native Mike Ryan was the hero of the day for the Eagles as he scored the game winner on the power play with 11 seconds in the third period. The deciding goal was the big forward’s third of the game – all of which were scored on the power play, and all of which accounted for Brantford’s 3 for 4 power play success rate. The game was evenly played for 40 minutes as both teams played hard and fast, attacking and counter attacking, trading scoring chances, and creating turnovers off of the fore check. In the final 20 minutes Brantford increased the pressure but they were fiercely resisted by a determined Cyclones team that was willing to compete and battle hard for a full 60 minutes.

 To their credit the Cyclones had a much better start in this game than they did in their last match in Guelph. The Red, White and Black played a strong and energetic 60 minutes of hockey and the young squad showed some good poise and discipline in the third period as Brantford applied some intense fore checking pressure inside the Cyclones zone. Cyclones goaltender Will Sibley was especially sharp in the third period making 18 saves on 19 shots, with the majority being the tricky and nasty sort from within close range. The Cyclones power play registered one goal in 7 chances and narrowly missed bagging a couple more (including a sizzling shot from Caleb Cameron that deflected off the shaft of Stephen Heming’s goal stick and out) that could have made a huge difference in deciding the final outcome in the Cyclone’s favour.

  The Cyclones scored the first goal of the contest within 27 seconds of the opening faceoff. Captain Bobby Cook attacked the Brantford zone and worked the puck to the right wing where Tanner Simpson directed the disc home past goaltender, Stephen Heming. 111 seconds later, Brantford tied the game when Mark Madarasz picked up a Mark Taylor pass in front of the blue paint and lifted a shot that banked off the cross bar and in. Both teams continued to go hard with a fast end to end pace, trading rushes and shots off the iron. The Cyclones capitalized with two goals in just over 6 minutes to grab a 3 – 1 lead. On the power play, Captain Bobby Cook and Alternate Captain Joel Bowman set up a shot that was redirected into the mesh by Tyler Evoy at 8:11. Later, continued Cyclones fore checking pressure created a turn over deep in the Brantford zone. Tyler Evoy fed the loose puck to Caleb Cameron and the slick forward quickly dodged his way through traffic and unloaded a shot on Heming. The former St. Mary’s Lincoln net minder made the initial save but Joel Alton arrived to knock the rebound in at 14:20. The Eagles got themselves back to within 1 when Jake Guindon and Brock Smith set up the first of 3 Mike Ryan power play goals at 18:45.

 In the second period the Cyclones had 1:56 of power play time left but could not generate anything and had to be wary of an Eagles’ 2 on 1 short handed challenge. A separate power play opportunity after that one did not yield anything for the Cyclones. Both teams switched from a run and gun style of play to a closer checking style, having perhaps winded themselves after a brisk opening 20 minutes. Brantford tied the game at 10:01 when Tanner Rutland grabbed a loose puck at neutral ice, led the 2 on 1 counter attack down the left wing, faked the pass and slid the puck past Will Sibley. Sam Milligan and Ben Dalpe each drew assists. The Cyclones responded with some pressure of their own which drew a Brantford penalty at 10:57. That power play did not bear any fruit but the momentum that it had created led the next Cyclones goal at 13:08. Cyclones defenseman Jordan Turcotte employed some good hustle and hard work to keep the puck onside in the Eagles zone, battled along the left wing boards and fed a nice crisp pass into open ice. Brett McGuinness stepped in with a full stride and hammered a B-U-L-L-E-T S-H-O-T from the top of the faceoff circle that blew past everyone and everything but the mesh – TOP SHELF!!! The Eagles tied the game at 19:19 of the third period with Ryan’s 2^nd PP goal of the game, - assisted by Sam Milligan and Matt Quilty.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards for this game are:

3 Points: Will Sibley – The 20 year old net minder from Caledon held the Cyclones in the game with a 36 save performance on 40 shots. Will was especially solid in the third period stopping 18 of 19 shots on goal.

 2 Points: Tyler Evoy & Caleb Cameron – Both players had a strong game for the Cyclones. Tyler had a goal and an assist, Caleb one assist. Both players were steady and dangerous through 60 minutes of play.

 1Point:  Bobby Cook –The Cyclones Captain registered 2 assists on offence, and was a constant presence during the game.  Number 16 comes to the rink ready to play hard and he leads by example.

 AFTER THE STORM NOTES:

After the game, fans were invited to enjoy some chilled refreshments from General Brad Neabel’s “Storm Bunkerâ€Â� and some complimentary pizza. Following that, it was time for Matt Miller to introduce the players and their families, the Cyclones coaching staff, our Dedicated and Most Valuable Volunteers and last but not least the hard working Team Executive. 

As an added bonus to tonight’s game; we were able to welcome the return of some former Cyclone veterans from the 2009 – 2010 team.  Captain Eric Deckers, flanked by defenseman Kyle Goss, and the twin towers defenseman duo of Dawson Smith and Brendon Haefling. This Cyclonic foursome was on hand to drop the puck for the ceremonial face-off prior to the start of the match. After the game, the foursome then joined the rest of the group in the “Storm Bunkerâ€Â� and imparted their words of wisdom and experience in support and encouragement of the 2010 – 2011 Cyclones squad. 

The evening was then capped off  “Ty Bilcke and the Rookie Schmeldt’sâ€Â� with a boisterous rendition of Katy Perry cover tunes and selected Holiday Classics (Better stay in school and stay on the ice boys, as there are no Grammy Nominations in sight just yet!!!! J)

 The next action for the Cyclones will be Sunday, September 19^th when the Cyclones will travel east on Highway 86 and then South on Highway 119 to do battle with their arch rivals the Stratford Cullitons. Game time is 7:30 p.m. The Cullitons will be smarting after a Friday night's overtime loss on home ice to Elmira. You can bet 100% that they will be ready to play a full 60 minutes of hockey inside the William Allman Arena.

 On Tuesday night, the Cyclones tangle with the Kitchener Dutchmen. Game time is 7:00 p.m. on the expansive ice surface at the Kinsmen Arena in Kitchener.

 Make the trip to see these very important road games & support the Red, White & Black.

 Let’s Go Cyclones!!!!

Guelph Takes Game 2 Of Weekend Series 6-2

In the 2^nd game of the home and home weekend series, the Guelph Hurricanes exacted their revenge against the Cyclones with a 6-2 trouncing at the Sleeman Centre. Before the second period was 5 minutes old, the Hurricanes took advantage of early power play chances and they also graciously accepted numerous gift wrapped turnovers to build an early 5-1 lead. The deficit was too much to overcome the rest of the way as the Hurricanes did a thorough job of finishing their checks and minimizing any thoughts of a comeback by the Cyclones.

 The Cyclones started out the game scoring with a nice power play goal by Jordan Turcotte at 3:59 of the first period, assisted by Patrick Bell. Jordan released a nice hard and low shot through traffic that drifted past everyone and into the mesh. Patrick Bell tallied the last goal of the game at 16:51 of the third period, his second in as many games.

 In between the opening and final goals of the game , the Red, White and Black found themselves flat footed at inopportune times and also made too many unforced errors, especially early on in the contest. Winning the battles for loose pucks also posed a challenge at various points throughout the match. Will Sibley started in goal for the Cyclones but was replaced after the 5^th Guelph goal at 2:50 of the second period; in a bid by the Cyclones bench bosses to reverse the squad’s fortunes. Brian Hainsworth played the remainder of the match and did a commendable job in relief. The Kitchener native made some tough saves at close range against the Hurricanes snipers who were hunting for more in hopes of running up the score.

  With a commanding 6-1 lead at the midway point through the game, Guelph took the liberty to rub salt into the wounds of their guests. Predictably this was not received well by the Cyclones who dished back some salt of their own. As the second half of the game wore on, the jaws of both teams were getting a thorough work out as were the penalty box doors for both clubs. The growing tensions and animosity between both clubs was painfully obvious to all in attendance at the Sleeman Centre.

 In the final minute of play in third period, Brian Hainsworth made a terrific save on a point blank shot from the edge of the blue paint. After the whistle a full out Donnybrook ensued, with all skaters tangling with each other. The fisticuffs and wrangling were highlighted / lowlighted by one of the most cowardly acts in hockey. With a Cyclone player stretched out flat on the ice in a prone and awkward position, a particular diminutive Guelph player made the unfortunate decision to jump in and continue pounding with his fists. Truly a cowardly and yellow act indeed; and heavily frowned upon by this reporter.

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards:

 2 Points: Brian Hainsworth - The rookie Cyclone goaltender did a superb job in keeping the Hurricanes at bay. Brian allowed only one goal in 37 minutes of play and kept the game from turning into a blow out.

 1Point:  Patrick Bell - Registered 1 Goal and 1 assist.

 The next action for the Cyclones will be Friday, September 17^th at 7:30p.m. when the Cyclones will host the Brantford Golden Eagles – no small feat as they are the 2009/2010 Midwest Conference Champions and 2010 Sutherland Cup Finalists. On Sunday, September 19^th the Cyclones will travel east on Highway 86 and then South on Highway 119 to do battle with their arch rivals the Stratford Cullitons. Game time is 7:30 p.m. Once again the William Allman Arena will be a lion’s den atmosphere, as the Cullitons and their rabid fans will be pumped up and ready to unleash themselves. (If you have never been there before, then you will not need much time to figure out the situation). The Cyclones and their fans will be ready to counter this and unleash a Cyclonic fury of their own!!! Make the trip down Highway #119 and support the Red, White & Black. Let’s Go Cyclones!!!!

Cyclones Start Season With 4-3 Win

Shhh!! Can you hear that sound? It’s off in the distance. It is the rustling and swirling of some great and tremendous force and fury of nature. It’s getting louder, darker, and stronger as it draws closer. The strength and intensity of this storm system has been increasing all summer and is straining to unleash its energy all over Southern Ontario. Welcome to the storm Cyclones fans - another action packed season of Listowel Cyclones Junior Hockey has been begun!!

 Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Coolest and Fastest Game in Townâ€Â� is twisting and turning its way towards the start of the 2010 – 2011 GOJHL season. For Cyclones fans it will be another entertaining year of fast paced hometown hockey. For the opposition it appears to be yet another “Forecast of Pain!!!â€Â� The Cyclones brain trust within the ranks of the Management, Coaching and Executive staff  have all  worked very hard to assemble another skilled, eager and energetic squad which will rival that of any other team in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League.

 For long time fans and new fans alike it will take some time to get familiar with the faces and names of this year’s squad. Departed from the starting lineup are mainstays and familiar names such as Chris Holmes, Eric Deckers, Dawson Smith, Kyle Goss, Brendon Haefling, and Drew Davidson.

 Time will tell if familiar names such as James Prigione, Mac Nichol and Ryan Horvat will be seen wearing the Cyclones Red, White and Black once again; or if they will be donning Major Junior A colours instead.

 Against this backdrop of change, the starting roster for the 2010-2011 Listowel Cyclones is painted with names familiar to those people associated within the various Junior and Minor hockey circles of this area. Cyclone Veterans Joel Bowman, Bobby Cook, Tanner Simpson and Patrick Bell will guide the way for the newcomers; as the team will be looking towards every game and every practice to establish themselves and forge their own team identity against those of the other 25 in the GOJHL. As the 51 game regular season unfolds, Father Time and the Hockey Gods will co-conspire to tell exactly what kind of story will be told about these young men and their on ice exploits.

 In the meantime, get your flex pass tickets, bring your trusty blanket and grab your favorite rink side seat. Are you ready? Chapter 1 of this season’s Cyclonic Epic will now begin!!!

  Prior to the game start, the voice of the Cyclones, Matt Miller, welcomed the fans and introduced the starting line ups for the visiting Guelph Hurricanes and the hometown Listowel Cyclones. A lovely version of “O Canadaâ€Â� was performed by Amber McCraney and with CKNX AM 920 radio on hand for a live broadcast of the play by play action, the puck was dropped at centre ice by Referee Brent Bloch to get the game under way.

 Fueled by pre-game anxiety and adrenaline, the pace of the first period was extremely fast as both teams blazed up and down the ice with intense end to end rushes. Listowel drew the 1^st of their 7 minor penalties at the 1:27 mark of the first period and at 2:36 Guelph registered their first goal of the season with a textbook power play shot by Ryan Wells. Wells took a cross ice pass from Zach Dion at the blue line and drifted a shot through traffic that passed by Cyclones goaltender Will Sibley, pinged off the post and entered into the net.

 The Cyclones were caught with another penalty at 8:06 but managed to work this to their advantage with a short - handed goal at 8:47. From deep inside his own zone Joel Bowman sent a strong clearing shot that travelled the remaining distance of the rink. The puck bounced quickly off of the end boards and lay in the high slot. Guelph goaltender Talon D’Orazio vacated his crease to give chase for the loose puck but Cyclones forward Patrick Bell was in full flight and reached the puck first, hammering it home into the yawning cage before D’Orazio had time to recover. Guelph managed to restore their lead at 16:53 with an even strength breakaway goal from Erik Belanger that was set up by Martin Kudla and Jake Weidner. Will Sibley had almost all of the angles covered but not quite enough as the puck had eyes, drifting off the inside of the post and in. The Cyclones responded with some hard work deep in the Guelph zone during the final minutes of the period. Forward David Dalby laid a nice hit on Brandon Stewart, and the forward line of Patrick Bell, Tanner Simpson and Spencer Turcotte were buzzing about looking for a tying goal as the buzzer sounded. The first period shot totals were 11 by Guelph and 8 by Listowel.

 In the second period the Cyclones wasted no time in getting the game tied up. Forwards Tyler Evoy and Jeff Bauer created some good offensive pressure down low inside the Guelph zone. Cyclones Captain Bobby Cook was there to chop the loose puck past Talon D’Orazio and the game was knotted at deuces 55 seconds in from the face-off. 44 seconds after that goal, Guelph was called for hooking and the Cyclones had a golden opportunity to grab the lead with a power play goal of their own but Bobby Cook’s shot hit iron and stayed out. The Cyclones continued to press after the penalty had expired and at the 4:13 mark of the second period they took their first lead of contest. A neutral ice turnover by the Hurricanes was converted into a left wing rush by rookie forwards David Dalby and Ben Davis. Both players roared down the open ice, with Dalby taking the first shot and Davis swatting in the rebound from the right side of the net. The action continued with another Guelph penalty but it was Will Sibley’s turn to shine making a good stop on a dangerous short - handed try by Guelph. The Cyclones then got into some penalty trouble of their own taking back to back minors at 7:32 and 9:09 respectively but Will Sibley and the Cyclones PK Crew were up to the task and shut the door on the Hurricanes power play snipers. Late in the period the Cyclones found themselves getting caught on the counter attack and Will Sibley had to bail out his teammates on two separate chances but on the third time around the Cyclones were not so fortunate, surrendering Guelph’s 3^rd goal with 2:14 left in the period. On this foray, Sibley made the first save, stopping Martin Kudla’s shot attempt off of the 2 on 1 Guelph rush, but the Caledon, Ontario native could not smother the loose puck before Brandon Stewart managed to jam it in. The second period shots on goal were even - 12 for Listowel and 11 for Guelph – and were an accurate reflection of how closely both teams were playing each other.

 In the third period both teams traded early power play early chances, including a double minor assessed to the Cyclones for high sticking. Once again the Cyclones PK Crew and masked defender of the twine Will Sibley combined to withstand the assault and repelled the Hurricanes snipers. The best scoring chance was yet another short - handed thrust by the Cyclones speedy Patrick Bell that was grabbed by Hurricanes goalie Talon D’Orazio. Both teams were playing each other close and the game had notions of heading into overtime but such notions were quickly turned upon their ear in a very short order. The Cyclones seemed destined for certain trouble with a boarding call against them at 16:13 but Hurricanes penalties at 16:21 and 17:04 helped tilt the ice back towards the Cyclones’ favor. 50 seconds into the Cyclones 4 - on - 3 power play, Joel Bowman relayed a pass to Captain Bobby Cook, who then faked out the Hurricanes PK and the goaltender before feeding a sweet tape to tape pass to Tyler Evoy. The veteran forward from Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario made no mistake as he cracked a perfect one-time slap shot into the mesh for the game winner. Cyclonic teamwork at its best!!!!!!!!! B-E-A-U-T-Y!!!!!! The Hurricanes pulled their goaltender with 40 seconds left but could not score another and force a 5 minute overtime. The final shots on goal were Guelph 30, Cyclones 29.

 Once again, the Cyclones wish to extend our thanks and appreciation to Sleeman Breweries for their participation as an advertising sponsor for the 2010 / 2011 season; and once again it is our pleasure to present for your reading enjoyment ……..(drum roll, trumpets and fireworks please)……

 The Sleeman Tall Boy Series Cyclonic Game Performance Awards:

3 Points: Captain Bobby Cook- Strong two way game on the PP & the PK, tallying 1 Goal and 1 Assist.

2 Points: Patrick Bell - Cyclonic Bundle of Power scoring 1 Shorty and a thorn in Guelph’s side all night.

1 Point: Joel Bowman - Steady & Cyclonic veteran blue line presence tallied 2 assists & tons of ice time.

1 Point: Tyler Evoy - Strong steady effort on the PK & PP, buried the game winning goal & 1 assist.

 The next action for the Cyclones will be Saturday, September 11^th in Guelph at 7:30 p.m. for a rematch with the Hurricanes. Friday, September 17^th at 7:30p.m., the Cyclones will host the Brantford Golden Eagles – no small feat as they are the 2009/2010 Midwest Conference Champions and 2010 Sutherland Cup Finalists. On Sunday, September 19^th the Cyclones will travel east on Highway 86 and then South on Highway 119 to do battle with their arch rivals the Stratford Cullitons. Game time is 7:30 p.m. Once again the William Allman Arena will be a lion’s den atmosphere, as the Cullitons and their rabid fans will be pumped up and ready to unleash themselves. (If you have never been there before, then you will not need much time to figure out the situation). The Cyclones and their fans will be ready to counter this and unleash a Cyclonic fury of their own!!! Make the trip down Highway #119 and support the Red, White & Black. Let’s Go Cyclones!!!!

Go Cyclones Go!!!

Cyclones Finish Pre-Season With Perfect 5-0 Record

The Cyclones wrapped up the exhibition season last night with a 4-3 win over the visiting Waterloo Siskins. This gave the home squad their 5th straight win. The final cuts are being made and GM Mike Brooks is busy deciding who will fill the final few spots.

From this observers point of view, there appears to be a nice combination of speed, skill, and toughness on the 2010-2011 team. Once the team is finalized, Roving Reporter, Dean Trentowsky, will have his more in depth observations of the roster.

The Season Opener is Friday Sept 10th as the Guelph Hurricanes come to town. Plan to come out and support this years team. With our bargain prices on Flex Passes and always low admission prices, it would be nice to see more fans in the building this year. As was reported earlier, it is the "Coolest Game" in town.

Go Cyclones Go!!!

 

The Storm Is Building- Get Your Flex Passes Now!

If you have been unable to "catch the excitement" as the Cyclones have been "Unleashing the Storm", no worries, there is plenty of hockey left. Heck, it's just exhibition season but the talk around North Perth is all about this young, fast, and highly skilled 2010-2011 Cyclone hockey team. As you can see, they have won their first 3 exhibition games and are gearing up for regular season.

This week, several of our young stars are off to their various Jr. A camps to give it their best shot. We wish them the best but at the same time are sure hoping most of them will be right here, suited up in their Cyclone uniform. If you haven't purchased your Flex Passes yet, they are still available at the 3 C's: Conway, Corley's, and Cockwell's.

You can also purchase them at our exhibition home games as well as regular season home games. Come on out on Wed Sept. 1 and Friday Sept 3 for our 2 home exhibition games. At only $5 for admission, you may want to pay more to see the "coolest game in town"....and if you do, we will accept.

Keep in mind that the Free Hat (with purchase of Flex Pass) is only while quantities last. Don't delay, be sure to get your Flex Passes in time for Game #1 on Friday Sept. 10th.

Go Cyclones Go!!!

Flex Passes On Sale Starting Mon. Aug 16th

This is exciting folks. The much anticipated Cyclone Flex passes will be on sale starting on Monday. You can get them at Conway Furniture and Corley Sports in Listowel and at Cockwell Insurance in Atwood. The details are listed a little lower on this page. Bigger excitement!!! While quantities last, FREE CYCLONE hat with all Flex Pass purchases. How can we do it you may ask. We do it for the fans. Let's fill the rink this year. Low prices, free hats...this is a Cyclonic Event.

For anyone who has not been approached to sponsor this years team and would like to, please contact Don Annett at donannett@hotmailcom. We have many options available for our 2010-2011 program.

 

Welcome Back Coach Williams

Cyclone GM, Mike Brooks, has been a busy man at the Cyclone Compound. He has decided to hand over his Head Coaching role to former Cyclone coach, Dave Williams. This decision will allow Mike to focus on his role as GM and build the best darn team he can. It will also allow him a little more time to spend with his young family.

Dave is no stranger to Cyclone Nation, as he coached here from 2003-2006. In 2004-2005 he guided the Cyclones to their first ever Cherrey Cup Championship. He also took them to a thrilling 7th game vs Cambridge in the Semi Finals the following year. For the past 4 seasons, he has been an Assistant and Associate Coach for the Laurier Golden Hawks Men's Hockey Team.

Dave looks forward to working once again with Jeff Bloemberg, who was also part of the Cherrey Cup Winning Coaching staff. He is also happy to be assisted by Matt Desmueles and Steve Leith. This gives GM Brooks one heck of a fine coaching staff to help him make 2010-2011 a season of Cyclonic proportions.

We will soon announce some of the Cyclones who have been inked for the upcoming season. You will want to get your cheques or cash ready to purchase some Flex Passes (details below) when they are released. It is rumoured that their will be a bonus of a FREE Cyclone hat for the Early Bird Purchasers. The excitement is building.

Go Cyclones Go!!!

Coming Soon- The Cyclone Flex Pass

You read it here first, the Cyclone Flex Pass is coming to town. This is news of Cyclonic proportion. This years season tickets will feature 25 tickets that are good for any Cyclone regular season home game. Our goal is to make it as easy and inexpensive as possible for everyone to come on out and "Catch The Action", witness the "Coolest Game in Town", see the "Unleashing of The Storm", watch "The Best Entertainment In Town", and "Experience The Excitement" This can all be done by buying the Cyclone Flex Pass. What you can do when you own a Flex Pass...

1- Go to every single home game yourself

2- Share them with a friend

3- Share them with many friends

4- If you have any left over, sell them or give them to someone who will come on out to the games.

You can always buy another flex pass during the season and here's the best news of all...the ultra low prices that we will be selling them for.

Adult                                    $99

Seniors and Students                                            (university/college/highschool)   $59

Children under 12                    $39

Welcome back to all of our returning players and here's a Cyclonic Welcome to all of our New Cyclones.

We have many levels of sponsorship available but if you wish to remain anonymous, that is just fine too. Donations are always welcome.

You can contact Don Annett at donannett@hotmail.com    or  Paul Fallis at     pfallis@canarm.ca

 

Go Cyclones Go!!!

_____________________________________