The 77’s hit the road last week with games in Minden, Algoma, Elliot Lake and Powassan. It turned out to be a very successful road trip, as the 77’s pick up 6 of a possible 8 points, despite being decimated by both the flu and injuries.
The 77’s sank the Minden Riverkings 6-2, thanks to the strong work of Alex Busvek and Sly Spencer. Busvek recorded 4 points and Spencer picked up 3 points in the win. Rookie goaltender, Kristian Docherty, was solid between the pipes.
On Thursday the 77’s made the long 6 ½ hour bus ride to Algoma to face the Avalanche. However, 40min from Algoma, the 77’s were informed that the game was being cancelled due to an outbreak of the H1N1 flu virus. Because the game was cancelled so late, the 77’s were awarded a 1-0 win.
On Friday, the 77’s took on the league leading Elliot Lake Bobcats in their own barn and played a spirited hockey game. Despite falling to the Bobcats 8-6, it was an inspirational effort put forward by the young 77’s, who only had 17 players make the trip because of injuries and the flu. Facing a full Bobcat line up, the 77’s started the game with 4 defensemen but it didn’t last long. Rookie Defenseman Marcus McKinnon, who had been experiencing flu like symptoms, had to be shut down after only a few shifts. As if things could not get any worse on the back end, they did. Anthony Walls, who averages 34 min a night when the 77’s are healthy, went down with a knee injury. This put the 77’s down to just 2 defensemen left in the game. The 77’s character showed through, as forwards dropped back and played to the best of their ability. Rookie Steve Lee and veteran Morgan Didsbury lead the offensive attack with 2 goals and an assist each. Antonio Morris picked up his first 2 points of the season with 2 assists. Rookie Myles Neuneker and Captain Sly Spencer chipped in with 1 goal each.
On Sunday the 77’s traveled to Powassan to face the Dragons. The 77’s had a slow start but dominated the 2nd and 3rd periods in a 5-2 win. Peter Veselovsky was solid in the net stopping 30 of 32 shots. Alex Busvek continued his great play of late by having a career night with 5 points, 3 goals and 2 assists. It was Alex’s 2nd hat trick in the past 4 games which vaulted him into the team lead in scoring this season. 77’s captain, Sly Spencer, also continued to be a force with a 4 point night, 2 goals and 2 Assists. Rookie Nick D’Avolio picked up 2 assists in the game as the line of Busvek, Spencer and D’Avolio dominated the game.
The 77’s used this road trip to climb the standings moving them into 7th place in the GMHL. The 77’s now set their eyes on the Innisfil Lakers, King Wild and Desoronto Storm. With wins this weekend the 77’s could find themselves as high as 4th in the GMHL standings.
