GAME REPORT - MJHL SELKIRK STEELERS VS WINNIPEG BLUES
October 16 2020 - MJHL Selkirk Steelers (3) vs Winnipeg Blues (2)
Selkirk and Winnipeg battled for the first 2 periods, trading some chances but engaging in a tight, defensive game. Ryan Ostermann was a chance machine most shifts, and seemed to get better after scoring on his first shift. Selkirk goaltender William Desmarais stood tall on multiple net front chances, holding the lead for most of the first.
Skilled forward Evan Friesen would tie the game early in the second, on a nice backhand in tight on a 3 on 2 rush. The teams would battle for the rest of the period, and into the third, searching for the important next goal. Selkirk would find the elusive goal halfway through the third when Tristan Thompson ripped home a quick wrist shot on the powerplay.
Minutes later however, that lead would disappear as Winnipeg was on the powerplay. Mathieu Moreira patiently waited for a lane to open, and found Brayden Foreman on the back post, where he would fire a short side snip just above the goaltenders shoulder, to tie the game at 2-2.
The teams would head to overtime, where Winnipeg had the early chances. But, as he did all game, Ryan Ostermann would find a way to lead his team to the extra point. After hitting the post in overtime, Ostermann would get the game winner, sliding a five hole shot past Buenaventura to give the Steelers their first win of the year.
Ryan Ostermann - ‘01 Forward - Selkirk Steelers
Ostermann was the best player on the ice in every shift and seemed to be able to do almost anything he wished offensively. He understands the balance of speed, and positioning. Finds pockets in offensive zone easily, but can also play a physical, cycle offensive game. North-South skating is strong, with good explosion in each stride but most importantly, can mentally operate at higher speeds.
Brayden Foreman - ‘01 Forward - Winnipeg Blues
Well rounded, 200 ft player that has a bunch of tools in the tool chest. Multidimensional game offensively, can beat you on the rush, or below the goal line. 62 points in 50 MJHL games in 2019-2020, and is already amongst the league leaders for 2020
Evan Friesen - ‘02 Forward - Winnipeg Blues
Medium frame skilled player with great offensive instincts. Is a threat in tight, as well as on the rush. Great goal on 3 on 2 rush.
Carson Hinkel-Lysak - ‘03 Defenseman - Selkirk Steelers
Left handed defensemen with a constant presence in all three zones. Is always in motion, closes gaps quickly and understands how to support his partner. Moves very well laterally and has quick feet for a 6’4” defenseman. Passing game is there, but needs to continue to develop his offense game. He will be one of the many youngsters to keep an eye on this season.
Ethan Buenaventura - ‘04 Goalie - Winnipeg Blues
Positionally sounds coverage goaltender with good technique, especially reading plays and head trajectory. Uses size to his advantage, and is aggressive when needed. At 6’1”, he has the hockey IQ to develop. Will need to improve balance and athleticism, but an exciting young goaltender to watch.
William Desmarais - ‘01 Goalie - Selkirk Steelers
Athletic, yet calm goaltender. Has great anticipation and is never out of a play. Remains calm in net front scrambles. Explosive in sliding and reverse VH movements. Handled multiple 2 on 1’s and breakaways with a calm, yet aggressive approach. Very good skating ability. Calm feet and textbook fundamentals when sliding.