Opening night jitters abounded for the newest Red Liners team at the McFetridge Sports Complex. A mix of seasoned players with former Northbrook players along with new CGHA members went against the Northside Riffs. Not surprisingly, the guys and girls in red were a bit out of sync in the first period. But as they transitioned into the second and finally third period, everyone began to work together fir a thrilling come-from-behind win.
In the first period, most of the action was in the Red Liners’ defensive zone with Chris, the Music Man, playing net. They had little sustained offensive threats against the Riffs. In fact, the Riffs would score twice in the first period. But the rest of the game would become all Red Liners. Twank would notch the first Liners’ goal off a quick wrist shot just inside the post. Jessie would tie the game up off a one-timer from a shot by Twank that rebounded off the glass behind the net and bounced in front of the net. The game winning goal was again by Twank slicing his way to the net and finding a loose puck to pop into the net. In the final seconds, there was a close call as the Riffs almost tied the game. The Liners’ goaltender made a brilliant save off a Riff breakaway.
These Riffs seemed like a stronger team than expected for this league. The Liners were wondering if they are an example of other teams to come or maybe the best of the best. Regardless, they will continue to hone their lines and work on synchronizing plays. Their next game is at Sunday, 10:45pm against the Mighty Merkins.