Bisons split in Lloydminster, St. Albert

Times Reporter 

 

After losing 4-1 to the Lloydminster Baker Hughes Bobcats on Nov. 9, the UFA Bisons’ offense picked up again the following day against the St. Albert Sports Raiders – with a 6-4 victory.

“Sometimes you don’t win all the games, but we’re getting better,” Bisons’ Coach Dan MacDonald said. “We’re moving the puck better and we’re starting to show signs that we’re growing together as a team. Those are all good things.”

Lloydminster – who are second in the Dodge Division with a 9-2-1 record – took seven penalties in the game, but the Bisons could not capitalize on the man advantage – usually one of their strong suits.

“It’s a work in progress. Right now we use everyone on the power play; they get their chance,” MacDonald said. “They all have to learn how to play in those circumstances. Sometimes it’s not as good as it should be, and other times, it’s really good. It depends on how the game’s going.”

Lloydminster is tied for most goals in the league with 50, along with Sherwood Park, and the Bisons. However, the Bisons also have a high goals against with 49.

Offensive defensemen Mason McCarty and Tristan Thompson were out with injuries against the Bobcats, perhaps leading to the lack of Bisons goals.

“Those are two good players,” MacDonald said. “We didn’t score many goals; they probably were a factor that they weren’t there. At the same time, the guys have to step up – and typically we have when we’ve had injuries. It’s just part of the process.”

McCarty returned to the lineup against the Raiders, and earned two assists. Thompson, suffering a shoulder injury, will likely be back for the Bisons’ Nov. 15 game against the Calgary Royals.

Forward Connor Boyd had a two goal, and two assist night in the St. Albert win. He now has 15 points in 15 games.

“He’s just getting better all the time,” MacDonald said. “His practices have been very good. Usually, if you practice well, the result is you play well in the games. That’s how it’s going for him. He’s just starting to reach his stride – good for him, his effort’s paying off.”

The Bisons are 9-6-0, and second in the Chrysler Division.