The underdog Langley Lightning would not be denied, capturing the league championship banner with a 9-1 victory over their arch-rivals, the Surrey Falcons.
The two atom C1 girls hockey teams hit the ice at Sportplex on March 6 for the championship final and Nicole Nordal opened the scoring with a breakaway goal, the first of four she had in the game.
Despite the lopsided final score, it was just 1-0 after one period and Lightning goaltender Callie Marchant made some great saves to keep the Falcons off the scoresheet.
And early in the second period, Langley got some breathing room when Samantha Peebles crashed the net and banged home the rebound.
And as the game wore on, the Lightning were able to capitalize on their opportunities, turning the game into a rout.
Julia Clauzel, Katelyn Fuchs and Madeline Craig had goals for Langley, while Kayla White generated numerous scoring chances.
The Lightning got to host the championship final after going 3-1 in the round robin portion of the playoffs, which included a pair of big wins over Vancouver C1, who were the favourites entering the post-season.
But the coaching staff of Steve Clauzel and Greg Fuchs had the team peaking at just the right time.
“I am extremely proud of how far the girls have come this season,” Clauzel said.
“The heart and desire that they played with all season was exemplified in their final playoff game.”
