Kings dominate in Banff; sputter against Okotoks

Justin Seward
Times Reporter

 

The Wheatland Kings were unable to ride the high from a 6-1 road win over Banff on Jan. 8 into their first contest against the Okotoks Bisons, losing 6-3 at home the following night.
The opening frame at home was tightly played by both teams but the Bisons were able to pot two by the end of the first period. After that, it seemed the Kings gave up too many odd man rushes, including one with two seconds left in the second period that put a dagger in any hopes of a comeback, the score being 5-1 at that point.
“We had a good start, we kept pace with them,” said assistant coach Brett Hartos. “We got caught puck-watching a couple times and fell behind the eight ball. A couple bad penalties but the guys rebounded pretty well in the third, showing some good character and really made it a game. 6-3 wasn’t really indicative of the actual pace or the skill set that was involved in this game.”
Hartos said the turnovers were tough on the defense as they happened in tough situations.
“Okotoks is a quick team,” said Hartos. “They have quick foot speed and they move the puck really well. The biggest thing is they make you pay for your mistakes.”
Jacen Bracko had two goals, while Cole Busslinger has one goal in the loss.
Banff has had the Kings number this season, but Hartos said it was great to see them come out with more fight.
“It boosts the team morale,” he said. “It shows that we can play a shutdown game and play with a lead.”
Bracko had the hat trick, while Busslinger, Lucas Jones and Brooker Pretty Youngman supplied one each in the win.
The Kings will head to Okotoks for a rematch on Jan. 15 at 8 p.m. before hosting High River on Jan. 17 at 7 p.m.