The Carlyle Bantam Cougars entered into the semi-final round of play offs against Lampman, with Game #1 on home ice Mar.8th. The Cougars seemed unable to get into this game, allowing Lampman a 3-0 lead after the first period. Second period wasn't much better, although Drake Smith was able to capitalize on one of the few passes made by fellow line mates Shaw and Stigings. Third period saw some improvement from the team as they added two goals, first from Evan Anderson assisted by Starr and Big Eagle and second from Brett Turgeon assisted by Anderson. But it was a little too late as the Lampman team was unforgiving with Carlyle's sluggishness. Lampman won this game with a score of 6-3.Game #2 back in the Lampman barn on Mar.13 proved to be a whole different story for the Cougars. They were back on track and the fans were delighted to see great skating, passing and teamwork!! The Cougars dominated most of the 60 minutes they were on the ice. 2-0 after the first, 7-1 after the second and 14-2 for a final score. Wow! Great game Carlyle!Game #3 in Carlyle was on Mar.15th. Both of these teams knew they had to play hard as they battled for the win and the opportunity to advance to the final round. The first period was pretty exciting as the momentum switched back and forth between these two teams. The Cougars struck first with an early goal from Starr assisted by D.Smith and Shaw. Midway through the period it was the Cougars again with two goals from Shaw and Big Eagle assisted by D.Smith and Turgeon. Lampman answers back with a goal, then a Cougar goal (D.Smith from Turgeon), then Lampman scores again to end the period 4-2 Carlyle. Second period saw great playing by the defensive lines and their goalies to stop both teams from being able to add to the score board, until about a minute and a half left to play Lampman manages to slip one into the Cougar net but we were able to promptly answer back just seconds later with a goal from Shaw assisted by Anderson. Score is 5-3 going into the last 20 minutes of the game. Both teams amp up the adrenaline and the desire to end the game in their favour. As a result we saw the momentum once again shift back and forth from each end of the rink. Cougars score first this period-Shaw from Anderson and R.Smith, Lampman answers back minutes later. Carlyle scores again - D.Smith assisted by Easton and Turgeon, and Lampman answers back. Half a period left to play, Cougars have the two goal lead and they continue their drive to pound in two more goals from Turgeon and Shaw to seal the win! Jodi Black had a great game in the Cougar cage tonight!! Final score 9-5 Carlyle. The team will advance on to the league finals against Coronach. Good luck and Go Cougars!!!
