It was a sluggish start to a game that saw an intense final minute push, as the Owen Sound Attack were unable to complete a two-goal comeback and fell 3-2 Friday night in Mississauga in their second of two meets against the Steelheads this season.
Back early in the season when the Steelheads visited the Bayshore, the Attack were limited to just 14 shots throughout the entire contest. The way Friday night started, one would think that the Bears would be luck to reach even that total, as both teams were sluggish out of the gate.
The game gave the feel of two boxers sizing each other up, waiting for the right moment to take a big swing. Mississauga, though maybe not the biggest opening for offence, took the first big swing when captain James Hardie burst down the wing and had his quick release shot beat Attack goalie Nick Chenard late in the first period.
Though taking the first hit, Owen Sound came out of intermission determined to get back in the fight, and did just that as it was their captain Colby Barlow notching his 37th goal of the season to pull the game even just over two minutes into period two. The Steelheads were quick to respond however, as they needed just 12 seconds into a power play to regain the lead.
The home team would again take advantage of having an extra skater on the ice, this time late in the middle frame, banging home a loose puck on the door step to extend the lead to 3-1 going into the final period.
Though the Bears came out swinging in the final 20, they were unable to generate any high quality chances on net, until late in the game, when Kaleb Lawrence used his big frame to drive the puck in front. The LA Kings prospect would then take advantage of his reach, by extending past an attempted poke check to slide the puck home and pull Owen Sound to within a goal.
The pressure was ramped up, but the Attack were unable to solve a Steelheads net minder who was solid all night, and held out to snag his team he victory.
Owen Sound will round out their weekend action tomorrow night when they welcome the Flint Firebirds to the Bayshore for the first time since Game 6 of last years playoff series. Tickets for the game can be purchased at the MacVicor and McComb Sutton Realty Attack Box Office by calling 519-371-7452 or going online at tickets.attackhockey.com.
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