Cardiff Junior Devils 6-5 Swindon Lions II

Cardiff’s u16's hosted their rivals - Swindon in a pre-season challenge match at Cardiff Ice Arena on Saturday 6th September.

The challenge game was a perfect opportunity to find the perfect team set-up and test both net-minders for their upcoming season. Our aim this season is to fight for promotion back to Div I.

Under the leadership of Titans coach/player Andy Edwards the team started off at slow pace and struggled to create their chances in offensive zone.

Cardiff found themselves 0-2 behind after first 15 minutes but going into the second periods the team came out a much improved side and started playing competitive hockey. Despite the outcome of friendly matches the Devils were not prepared to loose their first game on home ice.

A great solo effort from #12 Josh Haslam resulted in Cardiff's first goal, while perfect passing and team play rewarded a determined Devils side with another two goals. Nathan Dunn and Captain Dafydd Davies both found the back of the net.

Swindon managed to equalize just before the end of the second period during their power-play.

The Devils stayed strong in the third period and the period was just as exciting as the second. Dafydd Davies netted his second goal. He found a tiny space between Swindon's net-minders arm and the post and netted home a beautiful slap-shot from the right corner.

Devils #18 Lewis Jones added 2 more goals to the Devils tally, 1 unassisted and 1 after perfect passing from Josh Haslam.

The Lions tried to bite back in the hope of taking the win and they pulled their goalie with 25 seconds to go but the Devils managed to hold on to a fantastic 6-5 win.

The win gave the team an enormous boost, which will help for next weekend when the under 16’s head to Bristol for their first league game.

Man of the Match award went to net-minder James Wallace who is relatively new to the club. James has shown a huge improvement in his skills thanks to his hard work, commitment and determination.

Also, playing in their first game were new comers Kathryn Robinson, Sam Hampson and Joseph Wilkinson who along with the rest of the team all played exceptionally well. WELL DONE girl and boys!!

Stats:
Dafydd Davies 2+0
Lewis Jones 2+0
Josh Haslam 1+3
Nathan Dunn 1+1

MOM #2 James Wallace NM

report by Jana Raffaelli