The Valley West Hawks filled the net in two games against the Thompson Blazers last weekend, sweeping their BC Hockey Major Midget League (MML) series in Richmond by scores of 7-1 and 7-2.
The Hawks remain unbeaten four games into the season with a 3-0-1 (win-loss-tie) record, behind only the 4-0-0 Vancouver Giants.
There are no easy games in the MML. Despite the scores, this weekend was no exception,” said Hawks head coach Jessie Leung. “Both were tight for most of the game until we capitalized on some powerplay chances to pull away. We also got a chance to see some of the scoring depth we could have on our team, we had six players score their first MML goals, and hope to see carry through.”
Ten of the 11 MML teams were in Richmond last weekend for the Showcase Weekend.
Valley West, comprised of players from Surrey, White Rock and North Delta, broke open Saturday’s game with three second period goals for a 4-0 lead after 40 minutes.
Christian Bosa paced the Hawks attack with four goals. Kabir Gill, Ilijah Colina and Carson Franklin also tallied for Valley West. Luka Burzan contributed with three assists, with Bobby Russell, Bradley Stonnell and Michael Farren adding two helpers each.
“We’re counting on Bosa to be an offensive leader for us this season. Saturday was a good sign,” said Leung. “We played Saturday without two of our best players in Ben Evanish and Ian Ross but collectively picked up the slack.”
The Hawks received a pair of powerplay goals from Evanish in Sunday’s win. The White Rock resident now has seven goals in three games played, tops in the MML.
Calder Newson also scored twice, with Justyn Gurney, Farren and Bosa adding one each. Stonnell collected another three assists, with Farren earning a pair.
“I think we took the game for granted for the first period and the Blazers took it to us and outworked us,” said Leung. “We really had to lean on Reece Klassen in net to bail us out of our poor play Once we got our heads back into it we were able to pull away.”
The Hawks have a bye next weekend, then will play twice against the Vancouver Canadians Oct. 10-11. Face-off is 2 p.m. on Saturday, and noon Sunday at the Richmond Oval.