Dropped into the first exhibition game of this year's version of the Bonnyville Pontiacs and unfortunately they were playing Ft. Mac. Yup, the MOB was back in town with their big budget coaching and player enticements. OK, I'm jealous but our youngsters did a pretty good job until about mid way in the second period and then they kept backing up. Yes, there were a lot of new players that have moved up from Midget level and lots of new faces so I guess we can't fault them too much at this stage. For a first effort it was pretty entertaining and there were some noticeable new talents that stood out. Beau Ferbey (4) comes to mind who played a great game on defense but needs some help on the other side. Ty Carey (27) is going to be a power house up front with a deft hand and great positioning. Newcomer Matt Montesano (27) all the way from Boston who had never even heard of the AJHL until a month or two ago is another welcome addition.
Rejoining the Pontiacs are Go Getter Kevin Carthy sporting a new A on his sweater. Kevin jumped on a stray puck last night and set up the only regulation time goal for the Pontiacs against the Ft. Mac onslaught. Yup, the final score was 6 to 1 for them. Oh, we went 3 for 3 in the shootout vs their 1 for 3 but it was too little too late and you have to score those good ones during the game. I'm not sure I'm going to like the new format they are introducing to break ties - One five minute 3 on 3 followed by a shootout. (the one they had last night was just a practice to get the boys used to it.) I say, finish the other team off by the final buzzer. In any case, there's lots of raw talent there for Coach Mercier to work with and now its up to him and his assistants to trim the herd and get the juggernaut rolling. Have a terrific season. Home opener is Saturday, September 11 against the Lloyd Bob Cats at the RJ Lalonde arena 7 p.m. Go Pontiacs!
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