Friday November 12th was the most exciting game of the year as the Railer Express and St James Canucks, top 2 teams in the MMJHL, met for the first time. It was the type of game that lets you know you are alive, the heart was pounding and you were on the edge of your seat the entire game. This one even included and extra 5 minutes of OT and still not settled until Mattie Boonstra was able to solve the Canucks netminder, for the 2nd time in the game and the winner in the shootout. 

The Canucks jumped out to an early lead in the first couple minutes when a screen shot, the only one of the night, got past Arnold for an early 1-0 lead. The pace of this game was quick, both teams were skating, fast transitions and good skill both offensively and defensively. Though not alot of goals there was no shortage of opportunities for both teams with several goal posts and strong netminders to keep the scoring to a minimum. 

In the 2nd period, Grunsten threw a 100 foot pass off the wall that eluded the Canucks defenseman and allowed Boonstra to get behind with a clear path to the net, finding the twine and tying the score. The pace continued, although both teams were battling hard for position and pucks the game was well played and clean as neither team wanted to give up a PP to the other. 

As it should, this game went to OT, still wide open for the 3 on 3 - goaltenders and defensive play stood tall. Going to the shootout Arnie stoned the 1st two shooters when Boonie got up for his attempt, he made no mistake and scored his 2nd of the night to put the Express up for the 1st time. Arnie shut down the last shooter as he did all night and sealed the win in probably the best game we have seen all year. 

Look forward to the rematch net Sunday, Nov 21st against these same Canucks at 2pm in our rink.