The Nelson Leafs couldn’t hang in for two wins in a row against the Castlegar Rebels.
Despite winning 6-2 on Friday in Castlegar, the Leafs dropped 6-3 to the Rebels at home.
“The night before we played really well against them and I guess we were just too caught up in Friday’s win,” said Jonathon Petrash.
The Rebels opened up the first period strong, scoring just seconds into the game and logging two more unanswered goals afterwards.
Castlegar’s Stuart Walton welcomed the second period by scoring his third goal, after which the Leafs started to pick up the pace.
“We had a flat start and they dominated for their first five goals,” said Brett Norman.
“This game doesn’t mean too much in terms of standings, but it’s always good to send a message especially in our own barn.”
After trailing 5-1 in the second the Leafs began to fight back and although scoring two more, suffered too many penalties.
The Rebels capitalized on three of six powerplays.
Petrash said that the Leafs are just practicing towards playoffs now.
“Next time we play them in playoffs we’ll definitely be ready and more prepared… I think the fans have a lot to look forward to with the playoff series against Castlegar, the players have a lot t look forward to,” he said.
“With this rivalry, it could be one of the best series of the playoffs.”
