Ice Boltz shock competition in Peterborough

The North Bay Midget B Ice Boltz faced their toughest test
of the season in Peterborough, capping off the weekend with two dramatic victories on Sunday to take the championship.

The Boltz finished the round-robin portion of the tournament undefeated and in first place in their pool after beating the Waterloo Ravens 2-0, Port Hope Polar Bears 2-1 and Cold Creek Comets 5-0. The semi-final on Sunday morning was a hard-fought affair, with the Boltz falling behind to the Clarence Lightning in the second period and needing a late third period goal from Sarah Chenier to send the game to a shoot-out. The shoot-out wasn't decided until the final shooter, with Sami Sherry pr oviding the heroics.

The Boltz barely had time to savour their semi-final comeback victory before facing a resurgent Waterloo team in the final, after the Ravens upended the previously undefeated host Peterborough squad in the other semi. The final was another hard-fought game, with both North Bay and Waterloo having chances to go ahead and it took another late third period goal from Sarah Chenier to give the Boltz a 1-0 gold medal victory.

Coach Glen Huard commended his team for their hard work and commitment to team play on the weekend.

"This was a real test and I'm pleased how the girls stuck together, supported each other and followed the game plan," said Huard.

"Our goalies were solid, defence strong and all three lines played great two-way hockey. I was really impressed how we dug deep and came back in the semi-final game especially. A real team victory this weekend.

"We showed we can skate with the other teams and play a gritty game as well if we have to. Or as we said to Cold Creek, 'you can keep your cake and eat it too'."

The Ice Boltz head in to the Christmas break with 3 tournament victories, knowing that the competition on the road to the Provincials is only going to get tougher.