Spiders finish season with a tie

April 14, 2016

It was a game of two halves. Yes, hockey is played in periods totaling three, but it was game to two halves. Eleven skaters provided a small boost but on and off during the game the bench shortened to ten to accommodate someone’s intestinal issues.

The Wild dominated the first period but only managed to put 7 shots to the net. They put up the first tally when Dow got caught anticipating a wrap around and left the post early only to get shelfed on the near side post.

The second period found a shift in momentum. Spiders were catching their stride and putting pressure putting quality scoring chances toward the net but just unable to capitalize. The Wild did put in a second goal to take a 2-0 lead even though the tides were changing. The hard worked first paid off when Adleman got the home team on the board with the first goal.

Midway through the third, amidst intense pressure, Murray tied the game beating the Wild goaltender with a well-placed shot. Buckalew added the game tying goal with a mere 3:37 left in the game. It looked like the home team was going to be the victors, expect that seeing-eye, slider that found its way into the back of the net for the tie.

Combined with overtime, the Spider put up 22 shots. There were opportunities for both sides to walk away with the game but goaltending would be both the answer and the demise of both teams. The story of the game is similar to so many others this season: Short bench, missed opportunities, soft goals. It’s been a fun season and the off-season acquisitions should put the Spiders back on the winning track for next year.