With half of the lineup filled with young players trying to fight for a roster spot, the Cornwall River Kings skated to a slow pace and fell flat as the Trois Rivieres Viking pounced to a 6-4 win.
Can’t hold it against them however. The River Kings are trying to build a solid and gritty team and only have weeks to do it. The willingness of this group of young lads who are coming out on the ice have to be commended, as well as the Cornwall brass for keeping hockey in Cornwall for another season.
All in all, coach Steve Simoes is liking what he see’s on the ice so far. Along with last night’s blue and white game, today’s pre-season match up showcased the younger calibre on the team. While veterans, Corbeil, Lessard, Faubert, Jasper and Lacasse were suited up, it was the 15 young lads trying to put on a show.
Nicholas Corbeil opened up the scoring for Cornwall who also notched the River Kings 3rd goal as well. Chris Ayotte and Anthony Piteralli added one each which gave Cornwall 4 goals on the night. It nothing but a show from Trois Rivieres end as Etienne Archambault lit the lamp 3 times and Benjamin Casavant slid in two. Michael Belanger added one more to end the Vikings night with 6 goals.
Although the players were playing their hearts out, I have to tip my hat to both River Kings goaltenders, Loic Lacasse and Marco Cousineau. Both made some brilliant saves to keep the River Kings in close.
Can’t forget about Jonathan Jasper’s HUGE open ice hit as well. Fans went wild.
The Kings are back in action on the 27th when they invade Valleyfield to take on the Braves. The first game of “The Battle of the 401” series.
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