Aurora and Brampton Black played today for the 4th time this season, and the intensity was nothing short of playoff-level energy. Brampton got off to a great start in the first period, but just couldn't find a way to beat Aurora's goalie.
"Aurora has some great goal tending" coach Luddington said. "And they play such a tight defensive system. Man oh man, are they tough to score against."
Brampton finally got on the board on a mad scramble in front of the net. Bodies were flying everywhere and at some point the net got knocked off. Not everyone agreed when the puck slipped across the line, but it was ruled a goal regardless. Pretty? Not exactly, but they all count the same on the scoreboard.
Aurora stole momentum shortly after that goal, and their pressure resulted in brampton taking two penalties. Fortunately for Brampton, their goalie Michael Mancini came up huge and they managed to kill the penalties.
This might have been the turning point of the game. Aurora were already playing their third game in three days, and Mancini's play seemed to take the wind out of their sails. The final score was 3-0 Brampton, with the rope going to Michael Mancini.
With the win, the race for pole position intensifies. Brampton Black controls their own destiny, but remains 3 points behind Barrie with three games in hand. It's going to be a close one folks!
Meanwhile, Brampton Gold still is in striking distance of second place, but has Caledon and Newmarket looking to steal that spot from them. It's going to be a close one!
Standings to date: