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PANTHERS HAVE DISAPPOINTING WEEKEND

Date: Dec 22, 2009

The Pickering Panthers had a disappointing weekend losing 2 close games and moved further away from the 8^th and final playoff spot in the East division. Friday night the Panthers lost a close hard played game to the Stouffville Spirit by a score of 3-2. The Spirit managed to find the back of the net early in the 3^rd to take the lead; and then were able to shut down any attempt Pickering made at tying the game.

Pickering then played Peterborough in a similar style game Sunday that saw both teams come out hard with lots of physical play and offensive chances. Pickering had a 3-2 lead heading into the final 5 minutes of the hockey game, however Peterborough was able to tie the game up 3-3 on the power play and then score the game-winning goal with no time left on the clock. The game-winning goal by Peterborough appeared to have crossed the line after the time had expired, however after both referee's and linesmen reviewed the play, the call stayed and Peterborough was awarded the victory. A frustrated Panther squad left the ice knowing they now face a do or die predicament in their 14 games remaining on the season, if they want any chance at making the playoffs.

Pickering gets a bit of a holiday break not suiting up again until December 28^th when they play Streetsville at the Central Canadian Hockey League Showcase Tournament, which is hosted by the Newmarket Hurricanes. Pickering plays twice in the tourney, first on the 28^th and then on the 30^th when they play the Dixie Beehives. Both games are being played in Newmarket and the results will count towards the regular season standings. The showcase is a great opportunity for the players to show their talents and get opportunities to advance in their hockey careers, as the arena will be packed with scouts from all over.

The Pickering Panthers organization would like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday and look forward to see everyone Friday January 8^th, when the Panthers host the Lindsay Muskies.

Notes: 5 Panther players have recorded 30 or more points so far this season, with Tyler von Engelbrechten leading the way with 40 points. Right behind von Engelbrechten is team captain Kyle Ramsay who did not play on the weekend due to injury. The Pickering native currently has 39 points in 29 games played this season. Blair Falotico and veteran Mike Shirley are tied with 32 points each and rookie Justin Macdonald has managed to have a tremendous season recording 31 points in 32 games played.

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