First Half in the Books
(Bradford, ON; December 20, 2011)
By: Sean Werth
The Bradford Rattlers wrapped up the first half of the season, with back-to-back losses. First, a 3-2 shoot out loss against the Mattawa Voyaguers on Friday night; followed by suffered a 3-2 regulation loss to the Orangeville Americans Sunday. Despite this, Bradford still holds a very respectable 20-2-2 record heading into the Christmas break.
On December 16th Bradford made the bus trip down to Mattawa, Ontario to take on the Voyageurs. Pontus Ribbenstead stood between the pipes for Bradford, and Richard Wigmore for the Voyageurs. After a scoreless first, Bradford notched back-to-back power play markers to take a 2-0 lead. The Voyaguers countered with their own two goals to tie the game. A scoreless third and overtime brought the teams to a shootout. Justin Larivier scored the shootout winner to hand Bradford their second extra time loss of the season. Shots for the game were 65-27 for Bradford.
Later that weekend, the Rattlers took on the Orangeville Americans at home. Bradford ended up falling to Orangeville by a score of 3-2; their first regulation loss since November 13th. Orangeville’s goaltender Mike Berdine was the difference as he turned aside 55 of Bradford’s 57 shots. Travis White solved Berdine twice, scoring both goals for the Rattlers. Carson Bird played goal for Bradford in the loss.
The Bradford Rattlers staff and players would like to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas. Some of the players will be making the long flight back to Europe and across North America; Bradford would also like too wish them safe travels.
There is big news to come in the New Year; including an arena shift and the drive for the Russell Cup! The Rattlers are looking forward to prosperous 2012!
