RYAN GRAHAM
Observer Reporter
The Crossfire looked to extend their winning streak May 15 against the Westwood Pub Devils, but it wasn’t to be as they would lose 13-1. Although it was not as physical as their previous games, the Devils proved their championship from last year was no fluke, using pin point passing and an overall team game to sink the Crossfire.
Quesnel began the game with good pace, but once the Devils scored the first goal it was all downhill from there. Quesnel couldn’t keep up with the Devils as they overwhelmed them winning in a rout.
In their next contest May 18 the Crossfire lost against the Northland Nissan Assault in another blow out, losing 12-2. The first period saw a close contest with both teams getting equal scoring opportunities, but Quesnel would get on scoreboard first to take the early lead. Quesnel’s lead would not throw the Assault off their game though, as they would bounce back scoring twice, ending the period with the lead. The second saw Prince George carry their momentum from the first as they scored 15 seconds into the period, increasing their lead. Quesnel would get into penalty trouble soon after and would pay for it, as the Assault converted on a five on three power play.
The Assault would keep the pressure on, making Quesnel play in the defensive zone which resulted in two more goals to end the period. The third would finally see Quesnel show some sign of life as they pressured the Assault, carrying the play in the opening minutes and were rewarded with a goal. The celebration wouldn’t last long, as Prince George would score four straight to increase their lead.
With the game getting out of hand the physicality and nastiness would pick up, as there were a number of questionable hits which led to a Quesnel player’s ejection from the game.
The Assault would add insult to injury as they scored with seconds left in the game to wrap up the victory.