As the Storm finished up their third game in three nights saturday in Oceanside, you could see a hint of frustration as the boys boarded the bus. Despite spotting the Generals a 3-0 lead, they roared back to pull cut it to 3-2 heading into the final 20 minutes on goals by Jordan Suzuki and Chase Haley.
Just under five minutes to the third, the Generals would score again, and if they were facing the boys a month ago, it would have signaled the start of a downward spiral. But not this current edition. Good second effort from Chris West off of an Alex Benjestorf rush cut the lead to one again just 23 seconds later. The game wouldn't be decided until the 14 minute mark, when Tyler Auricchio scored for Oceanside to give them a 5-3 win at home, a spirited game that saw both teams play physical and not back down.
Probably the most complete effort for the Storm in the 3 games. Thursday, the boys were also down 3 to Victoria before scoring 3 straight to tie it in the third. Only late penalty trouble allowed the Cougars to score a pair with the man advantage en route to a 6-3 win in Vic. Friday, the team came out strong against the Kerry Park Islanders, who were missing the likes of Zach Fridella, Spencer Reich and Sheldon Latham. Great opening period, but the vets for the Isles in Cole Thomson and Ryan Reynolds the difference in a 4-0 win for the visitors at the Brindy.
There continues to be signs from this group that when that elusive win comes, it will get them on track to gain 2 points more often than not. Jordan Suzuki has easily been the Storm's MVP, not only scoring big goals from the blueline, but now adding a physical element to his game. If he can avoid the box while doing so, teams will be wary when #28 is lurking about. Goalie Tyler Bachmeier has adjusted his game, from making highlight reel saves, but allowing a soft goal, to focusing on rebound control and it's given his team a chance each time he suits up. Ryan Fairgray has shown he can man the fort when Tyler's off his game or needs a break.
Chase Haley has been a revelation since coming aboard. He's fearless, goes strong to the net and has a knack for generating offense through hard work.
Alex Benjestorf is like this team's "Rudy". A guy that many thought would never play more than a supporting role in spot duty. He's been one of the strongest players for the Storm the last 8 games and has been rewarded with 5 goals.
I loved seeing Brendan Enns up front. The big man loves to carry the puck, makes it difficult for opposing defenders to move him from in front of the crease, and could give the Storm a really good weapon if he can cash in a few chances and play physical, but clean on the forecheck.
Corey MacLachlan continues to get points when he's not crashing into the opposition keepers.
I think Andrew Gaiga still has a lot to give this team offensively and has shown it in glimpses.
Kiefer Rivington is another kid that gets better every game. Under the steadying influence of Dylan Budgell, he continues to emerge as a solid blueliner in this league.
From the great two way play of Jesse Spooner, to the grit of the Eliason brothers, the pesky nature of Rob Iszak and lunch pail attitude of Danny Hall, to the speed of Matt Tilton and Wade Bartlett, everyone is starting to discover their roles on the team.
Even Joe Szabados has stepped up his game the last few, since the departure of McNeill. Hopefully, scoring his first goal in 3 games will help Chris West get acclimatized to the team.
So there is hope, Storm fans. It's always darkest before the dawn. A big 4 game stretch awaits the Storm starting friday. 4 very win-able games with a pair against Saanich and two against Westhore. I'd be ecstatic seeing the boys win 3 of those. Tune in friday to find out. As of now, pregame at 6:15.
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