Aug 29, 2016 | Scott Soulliere | 1821 views
Jr. Rangers jump out of the starting blocks
The days are starting
to get noticeably shorter, back-to-school shopping is in full swing, and
the Jr. Rangers are back on the ice. This past weekend, the Minor Peewee AAA Jr.
Rangers returned to the rinks as they hosted an exhibition series to kick-start
the 2016/17 campaign. This hard-working group of Rangers played four
games on the weekend facing OMHA and GTHL competition from Barrie, Halton,
Mississauga, and Guelph.
The Jr. Rangers wasted no time getting back into the swing of things on Saturday morning as they were lifted by a goal in the opening minute of the game. The Rangers exchanged rushes with a very good group from Barrie for two periods. The Rangers' puck movement was good throughout and they rode a strong 3rd period effort to a 4-2 victory. In the afternoon game against Halton, the Rangers were the team that was behind early. In a contest that featured a number of powerplay opportunities for each team, Kitchener was not able to take advantage of their chances and ultimately fell 3-0 to the Hurricanes.
The loss certainly didn't dampen the team's spirits as they quickly raced away for a team dinner and pool party. It was a great opportunity for players, siblings, and parents to make introductions and renew friendships at the beginning of this year's journey.
On day two, the Rangers started with a tilt against the Mississauga Rebels. The Rebels made good on a few early chances and rode a lead into the 3rd period. The Kitchener kids pushed back in the 3rd period, but were on the short end of a 5-2 final. In the last game vs. Guelph, the Rangers jumped out to an early lead and capitalized on many of their offensive rushes. The 5-1 victory against the Gryphons left the team with a good taste in their mouths as they prepare for two more weeks of work before their first Tournament in Toronto Sept. 9-11.