2009 Esso Cup

FLYERS WRAP UP FIRST PLACE WITH WIN OVER WILDCATS

by Tessa Clayton

It was the game that would determine who was top dog in round robin play – both the Flyers and Wildcats were undefeated coming into tonight’s game.

Both teams came flying out of the gate, with great chances at both ends early on. Calgary’s Emily Harrison opened the scoring with a power play goal but the Wildcats answered back, with Megan Bailey scoring shorthanded to even things up.

Each team scored once more before the end of the opening 20 minutes, sending the game to the intermission even 2-2.

With the Flyers and Wildcats both taking numerous penalties throughout the game, special teams needed to be on top of their game and they didn’t disappoint. Only three power play goals were scored in total as the penalty kill for both teams shut the door.

The second period was also high scoring, with a total of four goals, putting Calgary up 5-3 at the end of forty minutes. What the third period lacked in goal scoring certainly made up for in intensity, with the game continuing to be fast paced, with lots of physical play that gave the game a playoff-like atmosphere.

Both goalies were peppered with shots but ultimately it was the Flyers’ Bailey Toupin who prevailed yet again, stopping 24 shots that led the hometown Flyers to a first-place finish in round-robin play.

Top scorers for Calgary tonight were Harrison and Brittany Styner, each with two goals.

Calgary doesn’t play again until Friday’s playoff round begins, while Westman plays Scarborough on Thursday afternoon. Playoff standings will be determined when tomorrow’s round robin play is finished.