’Cats finding their stride
Pride of Kootenays — The Kootenay Midget Wildcats started their second tournament weekend with a game against the Thompson-Okanagan Rockets. While the ‘Cats were unsuccessful against the Rockets, they managed to come back with a tie and a win in later games.
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Updated: October 28, 2009 7:46 PM
The Kootenay Midget Wildcats ended their weekend tournament with a roar.
The team was off to a slow start in their second tournament of regular season play, but managed to rebound with a win in their final of three weekend games.
The female hockey players are currently sitting in third of six teams in their league, having played six regular season games with three wins, one loss and two tied games.
On Oct. 23 to 25, the Wildcats were the host team for the tournament, which took place between the ice at the Community Complex and Civic Centre.
Their first game ended with a devastating 9-1 loss against the Thompson-Okanagan Rockets, who are currently the top team in the league.
“It was obvious the girls were nervous and the goaltending was a little shaky,” said Wildcats head coach Paul Matteucci.
The Rockets outshot the ‘Cats with two shots for every ’Cats’ shot. This was a lesson for the Wildcats as they went into their next two games of the weekend.
“We were really focused on getting more shots at the net, and really just playing hard so we wouldn’t lose anymore games,” said Matteucci.
In their Saturday game against the Vancouver Island Impact, the ’Cats tied the game 7-7.
The highlight of the weekend for ’Cats fans was on Sunday when the team took on the previously undefeated Vancouver Fusion and won 5-3.
“They really wanted the win, and played hard to get it,” said Matteucci.
He said overall the team is improving quickly and showing a real willingness to learn to play their best.
“For a lot of these girls, it’s their first time playing at this level and they know they’ve got a long way to go,” said Matteucci.
He said the team’s defence needs work, as well as their overall conditioning.
“Once we can get these girls into game shape, everything is going to come a lot easier to them,” said Matteucci.
The Wildcats have a couple exhibition games against Salmon Arm next weekend. They’ll continue the regular season with games in 100 Mile House Nov. 13 to 15.
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