After nearly 2 weeks off (from games) the Capitals took to the Ice Friday in Port Alberni for game 1 of our Coastal Conference Quarter-Final matchup with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs.
The boys in blue would jump out to a quick 2-0 start, but would ultimately find themselves on the wrong side of a 5-3 final. Massimo Lombardi would net two goals in just under 2 minutes to put the Caps up a pair and stun the hometown crowd in the early going. The Bulldogs would quickly answer with one of their own and send the teams into the intermission with a 2-1 Capitals lead.
The second period would see the Bulldogs make a strong push and try to take control of the game. Aided by Cowichan penalties, the Bulldogs would score two powerplay goals in the frame, while limiting the Capitals to just 4 shots.
The third period would see the Capitals strike early to even the score at 3. Shane Lavelle would net his first of the playoffs on a speedy zone entry which finished with him beating the Alberni netminder on a wrap around. From there, both teams would exchange chances and play a very back & forth period. The Bulldogs would capitalize on a sequence of sloppy play from the Capitals and would take a 4-3 lead. The Dogs would add another late marker to seal the victory and send the Caps home with a 5-3 loss.
Mccoy Bidewell was solid in goal stopping 33/38 shots. Lombardi would lead the way for the Capitals, registering 2 goals and an assist.
Saturday would see the the teams renew hostilities for game 2. The Bulldogs would come out strong and control the game from start to finish. Cowichan would find themselves on the wrong side of the penalty box parade and despite some excellent penalty killing efforts, would not be able to overcome the discipline issues.
Heading into the third, the Caps found themselves down 2-0 with some work to do. Through 40 minutes the Capitals had only registered 7 shots on goal. Massimo Lombardi would get Cowichan on the board mid way through the final frame and would (against all odds) pull the Capitals to within one. The Capitals would push until the final 2 minutes, but would ultimately concede an empty netter to seal it.
Mccoy Bidewell contributed another strong performance turning aside 37/39 shots faced.
The series now shifts back to Duncan for games 3 & 4, taking place Tuesday & Wednesday. Tickets are still available, but are selling fast. We’re encouraging fans to get their tickets ahead of time to reduce wait times and congestion at the box office. Tickets can be purchased over the phone by calling the Capitals office at 250-748-9930 or in person at the office. The office will be open until 7pm tonight (Monday) and will open at 12 noon on game days.
Photo: Chiasson Creative
