It was only the second game of the season but Nelson Leafs had fans cheering them on as the team tried to gain on the Fernie Ghostriders Saturday night. Fernie led the game 3-1 by the end of the first period with two goals by Ty Carron and one by Cole Keebler. It was Andy Fitzpatrick who scored the Leafs’ first goal of the season.
And in the second period it was Keebler who scored once again taking the Ghostriders to 4-1.
The Leafs increased the pressure in the third resulting in goals by the Leafs Tanner Costa and Jordan Davie.
Leafs head coach David McLellan said it was a good game against a good team, adding the Leafs had good defence.
A bit of direction from the coaching staff refocused the Leafs’ defence, reminding them not to chase the play. McLellan said getting them to settle down from “beginners’ jitters” made the difference as they gained their confidence in the third. Getting them to clear the puck out of their zone, up their work ethic and find more shots paid off even though the Leafs lost. By the end of the game the Leafs had out shot the Ghostriders 28/20.
Stars of the game were Leafs Tanner Costa and Ghostrider Cole Keebler.
The Nelson Leafs play the Spokane Braves Friday, Sept 18, 7 p.m. at the Nelson and District Community Complex.
Fernie Ghostriders celebrate after scoring against the Nelson Leafs. Tamara Hynd photos
