Nov 07, 2021 | Brad Mitchell | 61 views
(Post-Game 1) Gryphons Fall to the Winterhawks in Season Opener Despite Impressive Team Effort
Despite Carrying a 1-0 lead into the 3rd and driving play and possession for most of the game, a couple late unfortunate bounces and ill timed penalties saw Guelph drop their first game of the season 3-1.
It's often said that you can't change the past. I can accept that. And the boys seemed to have accepted that too leaving the past in the past and all of them coming to this game with focus and commitment.
From this Gryphon Fan's observation, Guelph outplayed the Winterhawks from the first drop of the puck until half way through the 3rd period. Huang got the start and did not disappoint demonstrating his athleticism and ability to remain calm in the crease despite being forced to rob some Winterhawks point blank and turning away multiple rebound attempts.
The Gryphon's overall defensive game was much improved from their last game. I saw far more sound and responsible decisions with the puck in both ends of the ice and there is still improvement to be made which is encouraging.
On the offensive side of the game, Guelph was extremely aggressive on the forecheck and did not let up on the pressure often pinning Milton in their end for significant periods of time. However, the Winterhawks tender also showed up to play and made it difficult for Guelph to capitalize on the chances that they generated.
Guelph eventually opened the scoring at 12:44 of the 2nd period on a point shot from Brown that snuck behind the goalie and with Pitts and Mitchell screening, Mitchell managed to find the puck in the crease and drive it home for the 1-0 lead scoring his 2nd goal of the year (Brown's 1st assist).
Noah and the boys deserved a better result given their efforts, however, they left the ice with their heads held high and a confidence about their next game against Milton Winterhawks (White).
No you can't change the past, but the Guelph Gryphons appear committed to changing their future!
Come join us on Tuesday in Milton to watch your Gryphons take on the "other" Winterhawks team.
Go Gryphons Go!