Kings earn split

Times Editor

 

In Doug Murphy’s mind, the Wheatland Kings were one mistake away from claiming three – or even four – out of a possible four points this weekend.

After defeating the Medicine Hat Cubs 6-2 on the road Oct. 22, the local Junior B team lost a tough 2-1 home game to Blackfalds Oct. 23 at the Strathmore Family Centre.

After falling behind 1-0 early in the game, Lucas Ford tied the contest 5:05 into the third period – before one miscue put Blackfalds up midway through the final period.

“They are such a good club that if you make one mistake against them, they put it in the net,” said Murphy of the 5-0-1 Blackfalds Wranglers. 

Goaltender Richie Hubbell, making his season debut for the Kings after a stint in Junior A, was sensational for Wheatland. The 18-year-old stopped 39 of 41 shots fired his way.

“(Hubbell) turned in an unbelievable performance Saturday night,” said Murphy. “That was some of the best goaltending (we’ve seen).”

Goaltender Korey Burne also supplied the Kings with excellent goaltending on the road in Medicine Hat. Burne stopped 46 shots fired his way in the win.

Ross Fox led the offensive charge with two goals and one assist, while Leslie Doore and Tyler Brandon each added a goal and an assist.

Josh Sutton and Hayden Warrack also tallied for the Kings, while Jordan Griffiths added a pair of helpers.

According to Murphy, after a tough campaign last season, the Kings are finally playing to their potential.

“We’re certainly playing to the level we should be at,” said the coach. “Having veterans coming to (play) for us in our third season makes a world of difference.”

The Kings will look to cap off the month with a pair of wins, as they travel to Stettler on Oct. 29. Wheatland will return to the warm confines of the Strathmore Family Centre Oct. 30 (8 p.m.) when they host the Airdrie Thunder.