The Westlock Junior Rock continue to roll, improving their record to 7-1 on the season for a May 30 8-6 win over the Lakeland Heat 8-6 at the Rotary Spirit Centre.
Trailing after two periods, the Rock came out in the third firing on all cylinders, scoring five goals in the opening three minutes of the period. The Rock took the lead and never turned back en route to their second-straight win since suffering their first loss of the season in Sherwood Park May 13.
Coach Mike Ivey said he was pleased with his team’s third-period dominance and ability to reclaim the momentum.
“We started great, then we went to sleep for a bit and they picked it up and were on us, and then we took over in the third which was big to get momentum back,” Ivey said. “It was two hardworking teams that put up a hell of a fight.”
Down 4-2 in the second, the Rock managed to close the gap to one goal late in the period. Ivey said some good conversation during the intermission rallied the troops.
“We had some good discussion in the third. The boys knew what they wanted to do and they came out ready, which was good,” he said. “As much as it was only a couple goals, when certain things aren’t working, it’s tough for a team not to deflate and I give our boys credit for sticking with it.”
The Rock were also able to capitalize on some power plays as a result of some chippy play from their opponents. Ivey commended his players for keeping calm and not retaliating.
“We like to play tough, but we want to use our heads, especially when you have a chance to win a game you can’t afford to take stupid penalties,” he said. “I felt we kept our composure that way. Lacrosse is a game where you put up with a lot of abuse and it’s tough out there. Credit to the boys for not getting too worked up and sticking with the game plan.
“Penalties hurt them at the beginning of the third and we were lucky to capitalize on those and made sure we didn’t end up in there, too.”
Ivey said the win was yet another example of his team’s ability to play as a cohesive unit.
“It was a whole team effort, I think everyone elevated their game, especially in the third, and that’s what it takes to get wins,” Ivey said. “Our goalie was unbelievable … we rely on him and he’s been great.”
Next up the Rock host the Edmonton Blues at the Spirit Centre on June 5.
