Feb 21, 2012 | NathanT | 253 views
Clippers Thriller Goes to OT in the Do or Die Game 4 in OMHA Quarter Finals
The Novice AE Clippers stood tall and played hard, facing down an elimination game with Orillia on February 21st. Maintaining pressure through the first period, the score remained 0-0 at the first period buzzer. The first goal came midway through the second from Gabriel (17) who put one in the net to the thrill of fans who happily cheered for Chelsea Dagger on the Clipper's home ice.
Orillia tagged up, and added a second goal on a power play leaving fans on the edge as the battle continued.
It was truly a grand spectacle, not really knowing if Orillia would break loose and find a weak moment, but the Clippers held fast and firm, keeping the play outside, and matching the strides of the Terriers. As the Terriers tried to close in, the defense foiled their easy passage, and NIck was quick to stop any threatening pucks. The forwards were pushed back time and again, but eventually the Clippers' persistence gave way to some quality attempts and offensive strikes. The break came with under 4 minutes remaining in the third when Gabriel made it 2-2, book-ending his goals with the tying point.
The buzzer sounded shortly afterward, giving the Clippers their first ever over-time period. It was a spectacular sensation. Orillia, the top of the league team, with only 2 regular season losses (neither of them to the Clippers, mind you) once again on the ropes from the 'Clipper team that wouldn't quit'.
With game 1 going to the Terriers 4-0, fate should have been easier on them. But those who witnessed that game knew the score did not really paint an accurate picture, as at least 2 of those goals may not have occured under different circumstances. Game 2, with a victory to the Clippers gave rise to tougher play, more confidence and a whole new hockey series, tied at one a piece. Game 3, although disrupted with a late start, still showcased some toughness and grit by the Clippers, and while the final score was 4-2, once again, the Clippers played some impressive hockey. Then Game 4: first goal to the Clippers; tying goal with under 4 minutes to the Clippers, and some offensive chances throughout. No doubt, the Clippers gave Orillia something to think about, and a taste of something they perhaps had not really experienced so far this season: vulnerability.
Orillia did finally take the over-time goal at 7:11. With a scramble at the net and Clippers flattened by Nick's side, the big-man stopped one, then two, but somehow a third attempt eked in to close the series down.
A tremendous effort from each and every teammate was made in this game and trough this series.
Well done Clippers!!! You worked hard and should all be proud of your achievements so far this season and in bringing the team to the OMHA quarter-finals with class and excitement.
Thanks to the hard working coaching staff and to our music-master for the evening: Thomas Kroupis!
OK fans - you can breathe a sigh, and take a few days off. You've earned it!