Playoff Run Ends at the Hands of the Mayhem
After an inspired finish to their season, which saw the Bombers win their final 5 games, including their first round match-up against the defending champion Renegades, the Bombers season ended on Saturday in a 9-3 loss to the Uptown Mayhem.
The Mayhem finished the regular season with the most wins, the most goals scored, and the least goals conceded. Despite this, the Bombers, having beat the Mayhem late in the season, knew they stood a chance in this semifinal game.
The game started out as positively as one could imagine for the Trinity boys, with the Bombers scoring the game's opening goal at 12:06 of the first period courtesy of David Giesbrecht, as well as the second goal of the game at the 9:47 mark on a breakaway by Brad Dryburgh. However, the early 2 goal lead by the Bombers may have only served to wake the sleeping giant, as the Mayhem answered back a couple minutes later with two goals only 23 seconds apart to tie the game.
The Mayhem didn't stop there, however, and scored another before the close of the first period, to take the lead 3-2. The momentum continued into the 2nd as the Mayhem were able to control the play. They scored another 3 goals before the end of the 2nd period, and the Bombers were simply unable to reverse the momentum of the game.
With the 2nd intermission being extended due to an ice clean, the Bombers had an opportunity to regroup before mounting a comeback. Even a 6-2 lead isn't safe in this league, and the Bombers knew they have come back from big deficits in the past. Yet when the 3rd period began, the Mayhem were able to score within the first 23 seconds, which may have been the final blow.
The Bombers were simply unable to mount any sort of 3rd period challenge, and the Mayhem stretched their lead to 9-2, before Paul Hilborn was able to score a late, shorthanded goal, to make the game 9-3.
The win sends the Mayhem to the finals for the 2nd time in the last 3 years, to face the CAC Warriors. The loss ends a string of finals appearances for the Bombers, who had reached the big game for the past 5 years in a row, winning 3 times.
As well, the loss sees the end of the line for a number of Bombers players. Players graduating include Alex Pichler, Paul Hilborn, Justin Vaughan, Jared Elenko, and David Giesbrecht. As well, Rick Fairley and Brad Dryburgh are both unlikely to return to TWU next year.
The Bombers would like to thank all those who have supported them throughout the year. Despite a disappointing finish, there were many great moments throughout the season, including the successfull Skate with the Bombers, that wouldn't have been possible without such great fans.
Bombers win OT Thriller
After a strong finish to an up and down season, where the Bombers were able to win 4 straight and secure the 5th seed in the playoffs, the reward was a match-up with last season's Champions, the Renegades.
Nothing ever comes easy this time of year, and the Bombers were ready to get back to playoff hockey. Scoring was opened by Russ Bartel, who was able to score on a point shot that had the Renegade goalie screened. However, the Renegades were able to tie up the game in what turned out to be a tight 1st period.
The tight play continued in the 2nd, as the game remained close. However, the Bombers were able to take back the lead on a powerplay goal by David Giesbrecht. The Renegades were able to generate more shots than the Bombers, but the Bomber's defence first mentality held strong as they were able to keep the Renegades off the scoresheet in the 2nd.
After an elongated 2nd intermission, which saw the ice being reflooded, the game returned for the 3rd period, which, in the playoffs, is played at 20 minutes rather than the regular 15 minutes. The Bombers were able to increase their lead thanks to a rebound goal by Curtis Hart, making the score 3-1.
Overall, the refs were particularly stingy in this first round match-up, as a total of 38 penalty minutes were called throughout the game. The Bombers recieved their fair share of penalties, and this would come back to haunt them later in the game, as multiple penalties saw the Renegades hold onto the momentum of the game. They were able to score, making the game 3-2. Then, with only minutes left in the game, the puck slipped loose in the slot, and a Renegades player was able to step up and shoot the puck off the post and in. Tie game.
With the end of the 3rd period, it was off to overtime. The playoff format sees 5 on 5 play, with play continuing in 10 minute periods until a goal is scored. There are no shootouts.
Overtime can be a nerve racking experience, but apparantly not for Rick Fairly. The smooth skating defenceman skated up the right wing, less than 2 minutes into overtime, before shooting a far side, backhand top corner shot to win the game.
The Bombers next opponent is the Uptown Mayhem, a rematch of the 07-08 finals, won by the Bombers. It starts at 10:00 at Sportsplex on Saturday, April 10th.
Bring on the Renegades
The Bombers have qualified for the playoffs as the 5th seed, after beating the Southgate Cyclones 5-0 in the season finale. It means that the Bombers are pitted against the 4th seed Renegades, last year's CMCHL Champions, who the Bombers faced and lost to in the championship game last year.
After an up and down season for the Bombers, they were able to end the season on a high, winning a season best 4 straight games going into the playoffs, and solidifying their playoff position that was in doubt for much of the season. The Bombers actaully finished tied for the best record in the Campbell Conference, but due to fewer penalty points, they finished 3rd, and 5th overall.
The Playoffs begin this Saturday at 11:45 vs the Renegades at the Sportsplex in Langley.
Bombers Win Biggest Game of Season
In a match-up with the top ranked team in the league, the Uptown Mayhem, as well as a playoff spot on the line, the Bombers showed that they can play with the top dogs of the league, as they beat Uptown 4-2 on Saturday night.
Missing key players Rick Fairly, Justin Vaughan, Joel Robertson and Jordan Dale, it was player/coach Jon McCauley, filling in on defence, who got the scoring going for the Bombers as he jumped on the ice during a delayed penalty, and recieved the puck in the slot, where he fired home.
Despite the Mayhem answering back a little more than 2 minutes later, the Bombers kept working hard, knowing that a lose would put a serious question mark into their playoff aspirations.
Their hard work was paid off when Jared Elenko skated in on a breakaway early in the 2nd and backhanded the Bombers back into the lead.
The Mayhem never stopped coming, however, and there were many scrambles in front of the Bomber's net, only for the puck to be cleared into safety, just as it looked like the Mayhem might tie the game.
The Bombers had chances of their own, however, and late in the 2nd they got some desperately needed breathing room, as Paul Hilborn tipped in a point shot from Curtis Hart to give the Bombers a 3-1 lead.
A two goal lead is the most dangerous, they say, because right as you think you are a bit more comfortable, the opposition scores and its back to a tight game. Well the Mayhem were able to score with less than a minute to go in the 2nd, providing an exciting and tight 3rd period.
The Bombers knew that having a lead in the third period vs. the top ranked team in the league was not worth taking for granted, and thanks to the efforts of goalie Brandon McIlmonyle, the Bombers were able to hang on, and seal the deal with an empty net goal with 18 seconds left in the game.
The win gives the Bombers an opportunity to finish as high as 4th, or as low as 9th, going into the final game of the regular season, in an extremely tight playoff race this year. They play the Southgate Cyclones on Saturday, March 27th at 9:15 at Sportsplex.
Ben Vanderpol!
It was a big weekend for the Bombers, as they hosted the 2nd Annual Skate with the Bombers on Friday night, which had an excellent turnout of fans who enjoyed hot chocolate and snacks, as well as taking photos at the photo booth, attempting to score on a Bombers goalie, as well as just having fun out on the ice.
Following the Skate was the 10 Year Anniversary Bombers Alumni Game, where the Bombers where able to acknowledge and honor some of the founders of the TWU Bombers franchise, as well as some of the players who have helped shape the Bombers into what they are today. The current Bombers finished the game on top, with the third star of the game going to Jordan Dale, and the second star of the game to Justin Vaughan. However, the first star went to former Bomber captain and multiple cup winner Jon Adams, who finished the game with 3 goals and an assist.
Thanks to everyone who helped make this night happen, especially Jon McCauley, who put in a lot of work to make this night a big success!
On to Saturday night, where the Bombers were faced up against the PCC Desert Dogs, in a must win game.
The Desert Dogs are known as a team that usually keeps the scoring low, being one of the lowest scoring teams in the league, but also allowing close to the fewest goals in the league. The Bombers knew they were going to have to fight for the win, and the first two periods proved it.
Despite opening the scoring thanks to Justin Vaughan, the Desert Dogs tied it up midway through the first. A nice individual effort by Rick Fairly gave the Bombers the lead going into the second, but they never had a chance to catch their breath, as the Desert Dogs kept fighting back. The Dogs then tied it midway through the second, and thats how it stayed going into the third.
The Bombers knew they had to win this one to hold on to the 8th and final playoff position, with only 2 more games left before playoffs after this one. Well, the hero of the game then emerged from the unlikeliest of sources...
Ben Vanderpol, who has quietly gone about his business in his second season as a Bombers defenceman, was asked to play left wing, due to a shortage of players. A position he has never played before, Vanderpol had the biggest night of his career, scoring his first goal as a Bomber and giving the team the much needed go-ahead goal. But that's not all; only 8 seconds after he scored his first ever goal, Vanderpol scored AGAIN! Vanderpol gave the Bombers exactly what they needed, a 4-2 lead, which helped them to relax and not squeeze their sticks too tight the rest of the game. The game finished 6-2 in favor of the Bombers, with Vanderpol netting the game winning goal. He also earned an assist, finishing with a career high 3 point night.
2nd Annual Skate with the Bombers
+ 10 year anniversary alumni game
Friday March 12th at George Preston Arena. 7:45pm
There will be free ice time, hot chocolate, a photo booth, plus the opportunity to skate with the Bombers players from past and present. Following the skate will be an alumni game, which will have the current Bombers squad face off against an a team of former Bomber legends. There will also be the opportunity to win Canucks tickets. With over 300 people attending last year's event, it is an occasion not worth missing. Skate rentals will be made available for 3$.
Mustangs Win Season Series
The Bombers, on Friday, February 19th, were unable to overcome the absence of key players Jared Elenko, Russ Bartel and Alex Pichler, as they lost 8-3 to the TLC Mustangs.
The Mustangs pushed the tempo the whole game, and the Bombers were never able to build up any momentum for themselves. Midway through the first period the Mustangs got their first two goals, both coming shorthanded on the same Bomber powerplay.
The goals kept coming as the Mustangs got up 4-0 before the Bombers were finally able to get on the board late in the 2nd.
Down 4-1 heading into the third, there was still a glimmer of hope, especially in a league such as this where no lead is ever safe. However, the Mustangs never let up, and extended the lead to 6-1 before the Bombers scored a couple goals to bring it to 6-3.
The Mustangs sealed the victory with two goals 11 seconds apart in the third to make it an 8-3 game and kill any hope of a comeback.
The Bombers next game is on February 27th at 8:00 vs the Willingdon Avalanche. The game is played at Sportsplex in Langley.
Game Notes: The Bombers received the penalty point, and continue to hold on to one of the final 2 spots in the playoffs... The Mustangs outshot the Bombers 43 to 29... The Mustangs won both games against the Bombers this season, with an aggregate score of 13-7...
Bombers Beat North Delta Knights
On Friday, February 12th, the Bombers suited up against the always dangerous North Delta Knights. Despite an epic playoff battle between these two teams now 2 years ago, and a lot of player turnover on the Bombers within that time, there are still still strong feelings between these two rivals, which were made evident through the course of the game.
The Bombers came into the game short two forwards, so in order to compensate, they moved two defencement, Curtis Hart and Joel Robertson to forward, and played with 4 dmen. The move seemed to pay off as Robertson scored his first career goal as a Bomber in his first game as a forward.
The Bombers went into the 2nd with a 1-0 lead, and getting some good chances along the way. The game remained tight however, and it wasn't until late in the 2nd when things started to open up.
with 3:39 to go in the 2nd period, the Bombers went up 2-0 thanks to a strong drive to the net by Rick Fairley. Then 2 minutes later, the Knights got on the board to make it 2-1.
20 seconds later Russ Bartel drove to the net and made a centering pass, which the goalie stopped. Yet the puck sat in the crease, and as a Knights defenceman went to sweep the puck out of harms way, he accidentally swept it right into his own net, giving the Bombers a 3-1 lead going into the third.
The third period saw a change in momentum, and the Knights began to take over control of the game. For a number of entire shifts they had the Bombers pinned in their own end, scrambling to hang on to their 2 goal lead.
Then with 6:16 to go in the 3rd, emotions really began to get out of control. During a puck battle in the corner, Bomber Matt Hayes aggressively used his body to knock a Knight out of the way. A Knights player didn't like what he saw and came skating in from the blueline to grab Hayes. Pushing and shoving ensued, and the resulting penalties saw Hayes as well as 2 Knights players with 10 minute penalties and game misconducts. Play resumed at 5 on 5.
The Knights kept pressing, despite losing two players, and finally found the back of the net off a rebound at 3:32 of the third period. However, the Bombers were able to put the game out of reach with 1:35 to go in the third to make it 4-2.
The rough stuff wasn't completely over with, as Jared Elenko hit a Knights player into the boards, which resulted in a Knights player grabing Elenko and throwing a few punches. Elenko received a 2 minute boarding penalty and the Knights player received 15 minutes in penalties and a match penalty.
The Bombers play next friday the 19th at George Preston Arena vs the TLC Mustangs at 10:45
Game Notes: The Knights ended up with 53 minutes in penalties, with the Bombers receiving 26 minutes... Shots were 33 for the Knights, 30 for the Bombers...
IT'S COMING...
MARCH 12th
One of Last Year's Biggest Events
300+ People On One Rink
KCC Cougars Hang on for the Win
In an uncharacteristicallly low scoring game, the KCC Cougars were able to hang on for a 2-1 victory on February 6th. Sitting at 2nd overall in the whole league, the Bombers knew they'd have to come out with their 'A' game.
Well despite only scoring 1 goal, the Bombers can take solace in the fact that they frustrated a very good team all night, and if it wasn't for a lack of finishing, the outcome may have been much different.
The Cougars opened the scoring on a powerplay 12:08 into the first period, with the Bombers answering back roughly 3 minutes later on a goal by Jon McCauley, playing in his 3rd game of the season filling in for Justin Vaughan.
While the game looked like it may be a typical high scoring affair, both goalies did what they could to keep their teams in it. The final 2 and a half periods of the game saw only one more goal, by the Cougars late in the 2nd period.
Despite a number of breakaways and grade A scoring opportunities, the Bombers just weren't able to tie up the game, which was a disappointing way to lose a game that was well played.
The Bombers next play on Friday the 12th at George Preston Arena at 10:45 vs the North Delta Knights.
Game Notes: The Bombers once again earned the bonus penalty point in the standings... The Bombers currently are hanging onto the 8th spot in the league, with a game in hand on most teams... the 12 game and 6 game goal scoring streaks of David Giesbrecht and Curtis Dueck, respectively, were ended...
Mustangs Prevail
This was the first rematch since last year's semifinals in which the Bombers were able to win and move on to the finals. Thus the TLC Mustangs had a lot to prove, and you knew they were going to come out looking for a quick start.
Meanwhile the Bombers were looking to build on their previous two wins, hoping to get on a role and make some upward progress in the standings.
Looking at the standings, while the Mustangs were on the bottom half of their conference going into the game, the stats were somewhat deceiving as their record was actaully better than a number of teams ahead of them, but due to their habit of taking too many penalties, they haven't been able to receive as many penalty points as other teams, hurting their position in the standings.
The Mustangs also came into the game with the league's 2nd leading scorer, who averages over 3 points per game.
The game started on a positive note for the Bombers, as Curtis Dueck was able to get the Bombers on the board early, scoring less than 2 minutes into the game.
Once the Mustangs were able to get a goal of their own, however, the Bombers really began to fall apart, and the Mustangs kept the pressure coming.
The Mustangs scored once more before the end of the period, going up 2-1, and they had all the pressure as the Bombers speny a lot of time chasing the puck with little success.
The momentum carried into the 2nd period as the Mustangs were able to continue scoring, getting goals at the 14:39 mark, the 12:35 mark and the 8:09 mark of the 2nd period. This put the Mustangs up 5-1, putting the Bombers in a hole that might be a bit too deep to climb out of.
However, the Bombers continued to try and reverse the momentum, knowing that in this league, no lead is safe. Finally, with 5 minutes to go in the 2nd, the Bombers were able to put one in the back of the net, again courtesy of Curtis Dueck, and shortly after scored another on a power play tip-in by Jared Elenko. The period finished 5-3.
The third period was much tighter than the first two periods, with the Mustangs trying to hold on to the lead and hopefully get the killer goal that would put the Bombers away once and for all, while the Bombers were looking to fight their way back into it.
Finally, with 3 minutes to go, David Giesbrecht and Jared Elenko played a give-and-go in front of the net, with Giesbrecht finishing it off, putting the game at 5-4 and making for an exciting finish.
Then with a little less than 3 minutes to go, the rough stuff began, as Bomber defenceman Alex Pichler stood up one of the Mustangs and knocked him over as he was coming in on goal. Pushing and Shoving ensued, and resulting penalties somehow left the Bombers with 3 men in the box with the Mustangs only 2.
With a man down, the Bombers had little hope of finding that all important game-tying goal. However, the Mustangs went on to receiving a penalty 30 seconds later, and then another with a little over a minute to go, leaving the Bombers with a 4 on 3 powerplay.
The Bombers pulled their goalie, and there was a frantic finish, but the Mustangs were able to hold on to their lead and win the game 5-4.
The loss lowers the Bomber's record down to 8-8. Their next game is on February 6th at Sportsplex at 11:30 vs the KCC Cougars.
Game Notes: The Bombers did receive the penatly point, a small put important consolation prize for a disappointing loss... Rick Fairly receiving a mysterious congratulatory remark on the scoresheet... The Bombers sit last in the conference. However, with a game in hand on each team, a win would put them in a tie for 4th, and only 3 points out of 1st...
Bombers Win vs. Silverbacks
Following up an 11-2 win isn't always easy. Saturday night vs the Heritage Silverbacks was a good way to keep the momentum going, as the Bombers cruised to a 7-1 win.
The game had a rocky start, as the Silverbacks capitalized on a Bomber turnover to take the lead just 2 minutes into the game. It took the Bombers 10 minutes to even up the score, which is where they finished after the first period.
The second period remained 1-1 until about the half-way mark, where Curtis Dueck scored his 2nd and eventual game winner. From there the Bombers were on their way, scoring 2 more goals before the end of the 2nd to finish the period up 4-1.
The third period continued in a similar fashion, with the Bombers scoring at the 14:12 minute mark, the 13:10 mark and the 5:29 mark of the 3rd period to round out the scoring.
The win moves the Bomber's record above .500 again, at 8-7. Despite coming into the game in last place in the Campbell conference, the Bombers hold at least one game in hand on each team in the conference, which may play a big role before the end of the season.
The Bombers next play the TLC Mustangs on Friday, January 29th at George Preston Arena at 11:15.
Game Notes: The Bombers once again recieved the extra penalty point in the standings, finishing the game with only 4 minutes in penalties... The Bombers won the season series vs. the Silverbacks with an aggregate score of 13-1...
Bombers Win Big against Southgate
After beginning the new year with a 7-2 loss to the Uptown Mayhem, leaders of the Wales Conference, while playing with multiple regulars out of the lineup, the Bombers were able to bounce back vs the Wales Conference cellar dwellers Southgate Cyclones. The Final score was 11-2, proving to be the biggest margin of victory this season.
The trouble for Southgate began even before the initial drop of the puck, as the Cyclones showed up with multiple colours of jerseys. For whatever reason, their team jerseys were late and due to the delay in game, they recieved a 2 minute penalty, as well as a 10 minute team penalty. While the Bombers weren't able to capitalize on the initial power play, they scored shortly after and never looked back.
Up 3-0 after the first, they brought the lead up to 7-0 before the Cyclones were able to get on the board with two goals. The third period was more of the same from the Bombers, however, and they were able to score 4 more goals to close out the game.
Credit the Cyclones for battling hard until the final buzzer, but this is a team that is having a pretty rough season, with only 2 wins after 16 games, and on this day they just didn't have what it takes.
The Bombers saw some breakout performances, including a 2 goal performance from defenceman Rick Fairly, and a 5 point night from Fairly's defensive partner Russ Bartel. As well, while Braden Jones was unable to add any goals, he did contribute by adding 4 assists.
Game Notes: Coach Jon McCauley made his second appearance as a skater, after recovering from off-season knee surgery... On a similar note, it looks like Corey Stroeder will likely miss the remainder of the season due to a knee injury... The Bombers avoided going over the maximum of 10 penalty minutes, and therefore recieved the penalty point in the standings... Congratulations to Brandon McIlmoyle for winning the top goaltender award at this year's all-star game...
Comeback falls just short vs CBC
The Bombers came into the game looking to extend their season high win streak to 4 games going into the Christmas break vs. the CBC Wolverines. These cross-town rivals have had the Bomber's number of late, winning the last two games, and the Bombers were hoping to set things straight.
The game started out fairly even, with both teams exchanging scoring opportunites. CBC started to build up some pressure on the Bombers, and made their first break through at the 10:26 minute mark of the first period, going up 1-0.
The Bombers didn't get the start they were looking for, but escaped the first period down by that same score. They then were able to tie the game midway through the second period, before CBC was able to score twice late in the second, to finish the period up 3-1.
Despite being outplayed, the Bombers were still in it going into the third. However, CBC continued their strong play, and scored once again, giving them a 3 goal lead with 13:41 left to play in the 3rd.
Then the Bombers came to life.
In a span of 25 seconds, the Bombers scored 3 straight goals. Brad Dryburgh scored the first, then David Giesbrecht, with Justin Vaughan capping off the comeback. The game was 4-4, and the Bombers were tied in a game that they probably didn't deserve to be in.
Well if the Bombers didn't deserve to be in the game, then justice prevailed, as 2 and a half minutes later, the Wolverines got a power play, and they made sure to use it. Despite any late efforts, the Bombers were not able to make another comeback, and they fell to a final score of 5-4.
With that, the Bombers finish of the first half of the season with a 6-6 record, as they come to the Christmas break. They resume play on January 9th vs. the Uptown Mayhem at 9:15 at Sportsplex in Langley.
Game Notes: The Bombers received only 4 penalty minutes, ensuring the penalty point in the standings... David Giesbrecht stretched his goal scoring streak to 9 games... Russ Bartel has indeed received a 2 games suspension for his penalty minutes, and missed this game, and will miss the game on January 9th as well... Doctors recommended Corey Stroeder see a specialist after reviewing scans on his injured ACL. No word on a possible date of return...
Bombers Take Down Renegades
The Renegades have had the Bomber's number the last few games, having beaten them in the CMCHL finals last year, as well as beating the Bombers 5-1 this year. The Bombers knew they were up for a tough battle, but having come off of two straight wins, their confidence was high.
The Bombers have managed to get off to pretty quick starts as of late, and that was the case once again, as they were able to open the scoring at the 9:15 mark of the first period. Despite a quick response from the Renegades less than 30 seconds later, the Bombers were able to close out the period up 3-1.
The Bombers have been forming a concerning habit of late, where they jump off to a hot start in the first period, before losing steam and allowing the other team back in the game in the second period. Wanna take a guess at what happened next...?
The Renegades started out the second period on fire, storming back from a 3-1 deficit to score three straight goals and take a 4-3 lead. Then to make matters worse, the Renegades earned one of the most exciting plays in hockey; the penalty shot! A Renegade player was hauled down on a breakaway, and everyone in the building knew what was going to happen next.
The Renegade player skated up on the penalty shot, made a move to the forehand and then shot, focused on getting the puck over goalie Brandon McIlmoyle's outstretched left pad. Brandon stayed with him the whole way, however, and reached out with his glove to make the biggest save of the game. With the Renegades looking to take a 2 goal lead, the Bombers would have been in a serious hole.
Penalty shots are a rare thing to see, but there's one thing that will always be more unusual than seeing a penalty shot... seeing 2 penalty shots. Shortly after the Renegades had their chance at a clear shot, the Bombers got their chance, as David Giesbrecht was hooked on a breakaway. David skated in, deked left before bringing the puck back to his forehand, where he slid the puck past the Renegades 'keeper.
So after the Renegades made their second period comeback, the Bombers were able to tie the game back up, with the period closing at 4-4. The Bombers were feeling a little bit relieved to still be tied at the end of the 2nd, having given up their lead and a penalty shot opportunity. However, the 3rd period was up for grabs, and the Bombers did not want to let the opportunity to beat the Renegades slide, who were sitting pretty on top of the Campbell Conference standings.
The third period was again a tough battle, with each team exchanging scoring opportunities. The Bombers got the break they needed, however, as Curtis Dueck skated in the right wing before shooting over the shoulder of the goalie and in with 10 minutes to go in the game. Brandom McIlmoyle shut the door the rest of the game, and Curtis Dueck was able to get the insurance marker to make it 6-4. The Renegades had a late powerplay and came close many times, but weren't able to catch up, as the Bombers were able to pull out the win.
The Bombers play one more game before the Christmas break, on Dec 12. vs the CBC Wolverines at 9:45 at Sportsplex.
Game Notes: This win gives the Bombers a season high 3 game winning streak, and puts them over .500 for this first time this season, at 6-5-0... Corey Stroeder is out with knee ligament damage for an indefinate period. The doctor's will take a look at him this week once the swelling goes down... Russ Bartel faces the possibility of a one or two game suspension, after reaching 40 minutes in penalties on the season...
Bombers Win against Docksteader's Desert Dogs
In a high scoring league such as the CMCHL, it's not often that only 4 goals are scored in a game. Sometimes the low scoring games are the most exciting, as every goal has such a big impact on the game. That was the case on November 28 as the Bombers were able to pull out a gutsy 3-1 win.
The game was tight from the beginning, with the game tied 0-0 after the first period. Shortly into the second, the Bombers got on the board, thanks to a goal by Matt Hayes. The lead didn't last long, however, as the Desert Dogs answered back less than 4 minutes later.
The game was physical throughout, and it was a real battle to win loose pucks anywhere near the net. Fortunately for the Bombers, the puck slid nicely to Rick Fairly, who corralled the puck before scoring from a tight angle. It was his biggest goal of the seaon (and first!) as it proved to be the game winner.
The Bombers added the insurance goal during a 5 on 3 powerplay late in the third period, and held on for the win. It was their second win in a row, and the fourth game in a row where they earned the "penalty point", 1 extra point in the standings for staying under 11 minutes in penalties.
The Bombers play their rematch vs. the Renegades on December 5th at 945 at Sportsplex.
Game Notes: Congratulations to Branden McIlmoyle, Alex Pichler and David Giesbrecht for being selected to the CMCHL All-Star game on Dec. 19... The Bombers outshot the Desert Dogs 30-18, their largest margin of the season... This win brings the Bomber's record back to .500, at 5-5 on the season...
Bombers lose to CBC Wolverines, but bounce back vs. the CLA Hounds
On November 14th, the Bombers faced up against their Abbotsford rivals, the CBC Wolverines. The Wolverines have seen a big improvement in their play since finishing last in the Campbell conference only a yaer ago. Going into this game, CBC was above the Bombers in the standings.
The Bombers came out hard, hoping to impress the crowd, which was made up by a mix of TWU and CBC fans. They came out of the first period with a two goal lead, and things were looking good. That's when the wheels fell off the bus, and CBC went on to score 5 straight goals.
The Bombers were only able to muster one goal in the last few minutes, much less than was needed to mount a serious comeback attempt, and CBC finished off the game with an empty net goal. The final score was 6-3 in favor of the Wolverines.
Then on November 20th, the Bombers played in their rematch vs CLA, the team who beat them 8-2 on the opening night of the season.
Having come off two disappointing loses where they had strong first periods, only to give way and get blown out the rest of the way, the Bombers were adamant about having a strong start and following it through to the end of the game. Well what do you know, after going up 3-0 to start the game, the Bombers promptly let CLA back into it, letting them score twice to make it 3-2.
After trading goals during the second, the Bombers finally started to pull away, thanks to a couple goals by Justin Vaughan to go along with Paul Hilborn's second of the night. In the end, despite a falter in the middle, the Bombers were able to complete a 9-5 win, and find vengeance for their opening night disaster.
The Bomber's next game is on November 28th vs the Docksteader Desert Dogs at 11:00pm at Sportsplex in Langley.
Game Notes: Curtis Dueck made his return after missing a number of games due to multiple issues, including a dislocated back... The Bombers tied their season high with 9 goals. Coming into the game, the Bombers were the lowest scoring team in the CMCHL, so to say 9 goals felt nice might be an understatement... Congrats to Alex Pichler, who managed to go without a penalty for the first game all season...
Bombers Fall to Renegades in Rematch of Last Year's Championship Game
Coming off a big 6-0 win last week, the Bombers were looking to carry their momentum into the rematch vs. the Renegades on Halloween night. The only thing carried into this game, however, were the inconsistencies that have plagued the Bombers all season. Unable to get on any sort of role, the Bombers lost this game 5-1, continuing a pattern of win one lose one.
The Renegades were able to score the first goal of the game less than two minutes into the first period. However, the Bombers answered back less than 3 minutes later, as the game was pretty even. The Renegades were able to score a goal with 29 seconds left in the first period, however, and once they got the lead, they never looked back.
They carried the momentum from their late first period goal into the second, where they put two more home, to go up 4-1. It could have been worse for the Bombers were it not for goalie Brandon McIlmoyle, who stopped the renegades on more than one breakaway.
The third period was much of the same story, as the Renadages scored one more to seal up the victory. The shot total may tell most of the story, as the Renegades doubled up on the Bombers 38 to 19.
The Bombers dont play for two weeks, as their next game is on November 14th vs. the CBC Wolverines at 9:45 at Sportsplex.
Game Notes: Curtis Dueck missed his second game with what doctors are calling a "mid-body injury"... Corey Stroeder made his return after missing last week's game due to climbing a mountain... Mike Witten played is second game as a fill-in player, after having finished playing the 4 previous seasons with the Bombers...
Bombers Roll past Silverbacks
The Bombers bounced back after a tough loss against the Cougars to win 6-0 against the Heritage Silverbacks on Saturday, October 24th. The win improves the Bomber's record to 3-3 on the year.
In many ways, this was the game the Bombers have been waiting all season for, as they were able to put together a full 45 minutes for the first time. They were able to combine a solid offensive game with strong defensive game, with Brandon McIlmoyle earning his first career CMCHL shutout.
The story of the game was forward Paul Hilborn, who, after missing last game while nursing an ankle injury, came back without missing a beat. In fact, he came back with an extra stride in his step, scoring a natural hat-trick to start the scoring for the Bombers.
Hilborn set a Bombers record, we presume, for the shortest time between goals as he scored his first two only 6 seconds apart. His second goal was a thing of beauty, as he won the puck off the faceoff, split the Silverback defence, and pulled a move on the goalie before sliding the puck home. He then secured the hat-trick with a short handed goal.
Russ Bartel also made an impact on the scoresheet, albeit not in the way he was probably intending. Bartel racked up 22 minutes in penalties, including a game misconduct for a dangerous hit in the middle of the second period.
The scoring was rounded out by a pair of goals by David Giesbrecht and a goal by Cam Haarsma. The Bomber's next game is on Halloween night at 9:45 vs. the Renegades.
Cougars Take Bite out of Bombers
The KCC Cougars came into this game atop the CMCHL standings with 10 points after 5 games, as well as the biggest goal differential in the league, having scored 17 more goals than they've conceded thus far into the season.
The Bombers had no intention of making it easy for KCC however, and while they conceded the first goal of the game, they never let the Cougars breathe easily, keeping the game close the whole way.
Down one after the first, the Bombers battled back to tie the game midway through the 2nd, after capitalizing on a turnover deep in Cougar territory. The game didn't stay tied for long, however, as three minutes later the Cougars regained the lead, this time for good.
The Cougars rounded out the 2nd period with one more goal, going up 3-1 heading into the 3rd. While the Bombers kept battling, the night just wasn't meant to be, and despite a late goal, the game finished 4-2 in favor of the Cougars.
While something can be said to holding a team that averages nearly 8 goals per game to only 4, the offence just wasn't there on this night. The Bombers loss cut short their winning streak at 2 games, as they have now fallen to 2-3-0 on the season.
Good news as the Bombers are finally in the early time slot, playing next Saturday at 8:00pm vs. the Heritage Silverbacks at Sportsplex.
Hot Start Propels Bombers to 2nd Win
Coming off their first win of the season, the Bombers were looking to continue their winning ways against the CAC Warriors late Saturday night. The Bombers have had some trouble scoring goals this season, but not this night as they rushed to a 5-2 lead after the first period, and by half way through the second they had stretched that lead up to 8-2.
Nothing seems to come easy these days, however, and the Warriors were far from out of it. If there's one thing to know about the CMCHL, its that no lead is ever safe, and the Warriors were out to prove that as they turned it up a gear.
CAC closed out the second period with two goals, pulling up to 8-4, and outshooting the Bombers in the 2nd 17-6. The pressure continued into the third as they continued to outshoot the Bombers and scored another two goals to get within two, 8-6. That is as close as they were able to get, however, as the Bombers were able to hold on, with Matt Hayes putting away the insurance marker with two minutes to go in the game.
Brandon McIlmoyle was again the story for the bombers, as he finished with 32 saves, including a penalty shot. He frustrated the Warriors enough to earn his 3rd player of the game out of 4 games.
Come watch the Bombers play next week at 1130 on Saturday, Oct 17 vs the KCC Cougars at Sportsplex, as they try to extend their winning streak to 3 games.
Bombers get first win of the season
Going into game three of the season, the Bombers were facing the potential of starting the season 0-3. But what is the best remedy for a losing streak? hard work; and that's just the way it went as the Bombers got back to the basics to pull out their first win of the season, 5-2.
The game was a fiesty affair, with the Bombers taking 9 minor penalties, including 5 of the roughing variety. Standing tall to keep them in the game was goalie Brandon McIlmoyle, however, as he turned away 41 of 43 shots to secure the win.
One of the keys to the game was to shut down the North Delta Knight's dynamic duo, Steller and Sobolik. They routinely finish in the top 5 in league scoring, however on this night they were held to 1 point a piece by the stingy Bomber defence.
Up front the Bombers were led by Curtis Dueck with two goals, as well as Paul Hilborn, who chipped in with a goal and an assist. The goalscoring was rounded out with a goal by Justin Vaughan and the insurance marker by Jared Elenko.
The Bombers next game is October 10th at 11:30pm vs. the CAC Warriors, played at Sportsplex.
Bombers Celebrate 10th Anniversary
The Trinity Western University Bombers are excited to celebrate their 10th Anniversary this season. There is much to be celebrated as the Bombers have won 3 championships in their 10 year history, and have played in the finals 5 straight years. That's a better winning percentage than the Yankees!
Unfortunately, the season has gotten off to a difficult start as the Bombers were roughed up in their first two games of the season, losing 8-2 and 10-3 to the CLA Hounds and Willingdon Avalanche, respectively.
To their defense, the Bombers played their first game the day after tryouts, and have 6 new faces to the team, so it may just be that the guys aren't fully acquainted with each other yet.
The Bombers are excited to welcome the new faces to their team: Jared Elenko, Joel Robertson, Brad Dryburgh, Justin Vaughan, Braden Jones and goalie Brandon McIlmoyle. Hopes are high that the new bombers can continue the winning tradition set forth by the Bombers of legend.
The season continues on Friday, October 2nd at 10:45 PM vs. the North Delta Knights, played at the George Preston Rec. Centre.
It's Coming...
March 12th