Trappers Manhandle Majors

Trappers James Olivier and Majors Justin Goulet get ready to take the draw during first period action Friday night. Photo By: Todd Vandonk

The North Bay Trappers started the weekend off in a big way by defeating the Timmins Majors 11-6 at West Ferris arena Saturday night.

Trapper’s goalie Marc Veilleux caught an early break when Majors forward Randell Rickard missed the wide-open cage while shorthanded. Veilleux’s pass hit the Majors forward, giving the visiting team a chance to grab the early lead and the momentum.

“That could have changed the game but we caught a lucky break, “said Head Coach John Couch.

Minutes later the Trappers officially opened the flood gates when Nick Huard scored a highlight reel goal that blasted over Majors goalie Martin Belanger’s shoulder.

“I just listen to the coach. He’s been telling us to drive hard to the top of the circle and to let the shot rip,” said Huard.

Huard needed only a 1:30 more to cushion the Trappers lead by batting in a juicy rebound on a delayed penalty call coming to the Majors.

“Nick was awesome out there tonight. One of his best games he’s played all year,” said Couch.

Huard added three assist, giving him five points on the night but wouldn’t take all the credit for his break-through game.

“Our line played really hard tonight and we are starting to roll,” said Huard.

Overshadowed by Joel Senecal and Tyler Hummel-one and four in league scoring-Huard reached the 35 point mark tonight (10 goals, 25 assists) and is looking for a strong finish in hopes of being selected in this year's Ontario Hockey League draft.

“I think I found my grove. It took me awhile but I want to have a good finish to the season and maybe it will happen,” said Huard.

Senecal collected a natural hat-trick in the third period and added a helper to give him 67 points (22 goals, 45 assist) on season.

Matt Sneddon, Josh Tass, Jordan Scott (2), Aaron Kennedy, and Mathew Thompson rounded out the scoring for the Trappers.

Coach Couch was happy about the win but wasn’t pleased with their effort, especially in front of their goalie.

“I felt we needed to clear them out more effectively in front of the net and that we got away from our system a lot. I expect us to be better tomorrow,” said Couch.

The Trapper will be back in action Sunday afternoon when they face-off against the Kapuskasing Flyers at West Ferris.