Nov 28, 2017 | tphilp | 754 views
Toros Up and Down in November
The Clarington Toros Atom AE squad faced adversity for the first time all season in November, and the trend continued for much of the month. The undefeated streak was broken, as well as a home-win streak, followed by a disappointing tournament result. This humbling experience allowed the Toros to stop thinking about the big 'W', and to start concentrating on having fun while playing hockey again. The Toros learned a lot through the month of November; lessons that should pay dividends in the post-season.
Starting off with a close defeat at the hand of the high-powered Peterborough Petes, the Toros came back home to beat a fast-skating Northumberland Nighthawks team 6-3 to begin the month of November. Following this game, the athletes travelled out to Port Perry to face the hard-working North Durham Warriors. The Toros had faced this team at the beginning of the season, winning decisively by a score of 9-1. However, the Warriors were ready for the Toros this time, shutting down their offense at every turn and scoring a few nice goals themselves, winning 4-1 in an upset.
The Toros were down on their luck, but a visit from their 'big buddies' from the Clarington Eagles Junior C squad was just what they needed to lift their spirits. Just in time, as it was the Toros' turn at the Silver Stick Tournament in New Tecumseth. Following a close 2-0 loss vs. the highly-ranked Barrie Colts, a game where chances were had on both sides, the Toros could not crack the 'win' column for the remainder of the tournament, going 0-2-1 and, as a result, being sent home early. Morale was low, but the players were determined to get back to their winning ways in the last half of the month.
Following the loss, the Toros travelled to Northumberland to face off against the Nighthawks one last time for the season, and they did not disappoint. The game was never in doubt, as the Toros started off the scoring and never looked back, winning to the tune of 7-1. Next up was the North Durham Warriors, who had caused them problems earlier in the month, and had done quite well in the Silver Stick themselves. The Toros, with some quality passing plays and fluid skating, left no doubt with a 6-2 victory at home. Believing the 'slump' was over, players and fans alike were breathing a sigh of relief. However, no one accounted for the tough, fast play of the Whitby Wildcats, who came into South Courtice Arena the following day and handed the Toros a 3-1 upset at home; their first home loss of the season.
With no more streaks to play for, the Toros could now begin to start playing hockey and having fun. This was evident this past weekend, travelling to Belleville for a double-header, winning 9-2 and 8-3 in the two games. The passing plays demonstrated by the Toros were highlight-worthy, spreading it around and making the most of the time and space that was available to them.
Next up for the Toros is tournament action; travelling to Montreal to participate in the Canadian Cup. The team will be underdogs for the first time this season, going up against opponents in the 'A' loop. However, with the adversity faced in November making them better players and people, coupled with a sweet pool at the hotel in Montreal, the athletes are sure to give it their very best and enjoy the experience, no matter the result. Go Toros!