Great Games Cap Season at Provincials (April 13, 2008)
It may seem odd for the Cyclones to finish the season on such a high when they didn't make the medal round of Provincials, but that is exactly what happened this weekend in Toronto. Though the team had limited success during the season and considered themselves an 'A' calibre team, the OWHA was unyielding in their decision making process and forced the Cyclones to compete at the 'AA' level.
The Dundas girls took this as a challenge and entered the tournament with determination to prove that they could compete at the highest level in the province. In game one against the Toronto Vixens, a team loaded with ex NCAA players and Canada Under 22 veterans, the short Cyclone bench battled the Vixens allowing just two goals with stingy defence and stellar goaltending.
The second game was even closer with a longer bench and an even tougher attitude, the Cyclones battled Ottawa to a scoreless tie. The final game of the round robin was a must win for both teams and though the Cyclones couldn't muster a goal, they gave the other Ottawa team all they could handle in a 2-0 loss.
Allowing just 4 goals in the three games was an amazing feat for the under dog Cyclones and the fact that they surrendered just two goals to the eventual Gold Medal winner was a great finish to the season.
Close Games Through Tournament and Playoffs (March 9, 2008)
The Cyclones entered the Burlington March Break tournament with a game against rival Brantford Ice Cats and played one of their strongest defensive games of the season. Though Dundas had to contend with no less than five - two player disadvantages, they only allowed one goal. The Cyclones scored a beauty as Amanda Young fed a pin point pass to Megan Hoogstraten. "Mamma Hoogs" roofed a beauty against the Brantford goalie for a 1-1 tie. With a snow shortened tournament the Cyclones were eliminated by the home Barracudas 3-1.
The same night, Dundas played their final playoff game of the season against Brantford and fell 2-1 in a very well played game. Erika Waite blasted a shot from the point which rang inside the cross bar. The Cyclones couldn't manage the tying goal but played a very inspired game. The team hopes to qualify for provincials later in April.
Hard Work Finally Rewarded (Feb 24, 2008)
Wins have been hard to come by for the Cyclones this season and as playoffs hit the mid way mark Dundas had only managed one tie and scored just two goals in the first three games. The scoring drought was addressed in each practice with much attention paid to shooting and offensive attack.
Sunday the Niagara Falls Coyotes visited and Dundas finally found the scoring touch when Julia Crouch fed a pass to Amanda Young for the opening goal. Before the first frame ended Jane Berry made an end to end rush from her position on defence and scored a beauty for her first of the season. Not to be out done, Katie Olechowski bagged her first of the season on a blast from the point. Lindsay Sauer was next to bulge the twine early in the third and Young scored once more to open a commanding five goal lead. The Coyotes were able to get one back late in the game but the Cyclones shut the door for the 5-1 final.
Slow But Sure Progress in Playoffs (Feb 18, 2008)
After being taken to school against the Niagara Panthers in the first round robin playoff game, the Cyclones faced Hamilton. Although the Hawks prevailed in the game, Dundas maintained better composure and played a clean game, a style completely unfamiliar to the Hamilton team.
On Sunday Dundas was home to Stoney Creek and played a much better puck posession game, coming away with a 1-1 tie.
Positives From a Loss (Jan 6, 2008)
It is rare that a coach is satisfied when a game is lost but the outcome of the Cyclones first game against the St. Catharines Chaos fell into that category. As the only AA classed team in the division, the Chaos brings a wealth of talent against opponents. St. Catharines boasts members who have played at the NWHL and NCAA Division I level as well as top OUA talent.
So it was a daunting task for the Cyclones to match up against such a powerful squad. The home team brought a simple and effective plan to the game and with the exception of a few defensive breakdowns, the plan was carried out very well. The Chaos struck twice in the first period adding one more in the second and third periods. Dundas maintained composure and stuck to the game plan which resulted in a late goal to steal the shut out away in the 4-1 final. Alicia Montgomery played her strongest game of the season turning away over 40 shots, many from point blank range.
Cyclones Up & Down Season Continues (Dec 22, 2007)
The Cyclones had a pair of games on the road in the Niagara area starting with a match against the Coyotes in Niagara Falls NY. Early in the game goals by Cassandra O'Brien and Katie Olechowski got things going well. The Coyotes kept battling back and managed to tie the game before Amanda Young got the go ahead goal on a nifty set up from Karleigh Veevers. Late in the game the Coyotes were able to rescue a tie.
Just a day later Dundas visited Fort Erie to face the Panthers. Offensive power was just not there for the Cyclones on this day as they managed very few shots though they did have good puck posession. The game remained scoreless through two periods before the Panthers were able to solve the Cyclones for the lead. Minutes later a point blast elluded Montgomery for the two goal lead. The Panters finished up the win with an emptly net goal in the 3-0 final. The Cyclones have a lengthy rest before facing the league juggernaut St. Catharines Chaos on Jan 6 at home.
Cyclones Win & Tie Against Local Rivals (Dec 9, 2007)
It was a busy weekend for the Cyclones first on the road against Stoney Creek. The Cyclones scored early and often in a 5-3 win against the Sabres. With the exception of a momentary break down in the defensive system, Dundas played a solid game communicating better than in early games. Amanda Young got the hat trick while Karleigh Veevers and Lindsay Sauer added to the scoring.
Back home on Sunday the Cyclones faced Hamilton scoring a pair of goals in the first period by Veevers and Dana Spence before the Hawks got one back. In the middle frame Young scored a pair more to widen the lead chasing the Hawk goalie from the net. Hamilton was awarded another goal controversially and with time running out rescued a tie.
Panthers Knock Cyclones Down a Notch (Dec 2, 2007)
After a couple of strong outings Dundas hosted the Niagara Falls Panthers but couldn't get much going offensively all game long. Through two periods the Cyclones managed few shots and couldn't found themselves down by a pair of goals.
The third period was little different with the Panthers adding three more goals to salt away the win. Alicia Montgomery was solid in net stopping many undefended opportunities. Dana Spence was finally able to join the Cyclones and is getting used to new team mates and systems.
Cyclones Picking Up Strength - Heading in Right Direction (Nov 18, 2007)
After a slow start losing their opening three games, the Cyclones are starting to round into form as players learn new systems and get used to new line mates. The coaches have been experimenting with different combinations to find just the right mix and that seems to be working as Dundas has won three of their last four games.
The team will finally welcome Dana Spence this week after a long battle to secure her release from the Mississauga Chiefs. The team is still looking for another goalie to share the goaltending dutes with Alicia Montgomery. Alicia has had to shoulder the full load of games and practices.
With the team making it through the rookie party intact, they look forward to continuing their winning ways throughout the rest of the season.
New Division and New Faces Build Cyclones (Oct 7, 2007)
The
Dundas Cyclones
have a host
of new changes
for the 2007/08
season. First
is the move
to Senior A
status where
Dundas will
compete against
Hamilton, Burlington,
Brantford,
Stoney Creek,
St. Catharines,
Niagara Falls
and Niagara
County New
York. Along
with a new
division came
many new players.
Returning
veterans,
Alicia Montgomery,
Julia Crouch,
Katie Olechowski,
and
Lindsay Sauer welcomed
new players,
Cassandra
O'Brien,
Anna Rodgers,
Dana Spence,
Amanda Young,
Jane Berry,
Lauren and
Megan Hoogstraten,
Erika Waite
and rookie
Karleigh Veevers.
Returning
to the Cyclones
from teams
in the past
are
Tammie Hayes and Michelle Matuszak.
Though the team activiely seeks another goalie and a player or two to fill in the line up, the coaches look forward to a great
season with the new group. The team had a slow start with three losses to Hamilton, Burlington and Brantford. With so many new players the coaches expected a learning curve
for the girls to get acquainted with each other and the system.
Comets Wind Down Successful Season (March 25, 2007)
The Dundas Cyclones were eliminated from the playoffs Sunday in Dundas when the Cold Creek Comets visited and took away a 4-0 win to advance to the semi finals. The girls played tough throughout the series but just couldn't generate enough offence to beat the Comets. Despite being eliminated, the team had a great season highlighted by the three-peat win of the Erie Pennsylvania tournament, a tie for tops in the league standings for the regular season and an unprecedented twelve game undefeated streak to start the season.
Comets and Cyclones Clash in Game One (March 18, 2007)
Round two of the NMGHL playoffs began for Dundas on Sunday with Cold Creek who advanced based on their first round defeat of Markham Stoufville. Cold Creek had played the Cyclones tough all season and Dundas knew they would need their best effort to succeed against the speedy Comets.
Cold Creek got off to a fast start scoring late in the first period and again early in the second when Dundas found themselves visiting the penalty box too frequently. Heidi Boyle's acrobatic saves were the only thing keeping the game close early on. As the game wore on, the Cyclones found their legs and began to match the Comet's speed and physical play. They were rewarded midway through the second when Melissa Ryder pinched to keep the puck in and Meaghan Dunn fed Katie Love a pass on the boards. Love battled her way to the middle of the ice and fired a pin point shot through traffic to put the Cyclones on the board. Dundas continued the pressure and as the period ended, Love fed Jaime Morrison a break away pass. Morrison broke up ice and rifled a bullet to the top corner of the mesh tying the game. The third period was a back and forth battle that remained scoreless sending the teams to the dressing rooms with a point each. Game two of the series is in Cold Creek on Saturday and the deciding game will be in Dundas Sunday at 11am.
Cyclones 3-Peat in Pennsylvania Nailbiter (Feb 12, 2007)
The Dundas Cyclones were on the road in Erie PA on last weekend looking for a third consecutive Championship in the 19U Elite Division. The preliminary round did not prove to be too challenging as the Dundas girls beat a Pittsburgh team 8-1 and then handled Leaside 7-0. In the first elimination game the Cyclones again met Pittsburgh who had themselves eliminated Stratford. The game was still not a challenge as Dundas defeated Pittsburgh 6-0. This set up a rematch of last season's final against Niagara Falls New York.
The final was described as all those in attendance as the most exciting finish EVER. At the end of one period the Coyotes were up by one and Dundas was clearly suffering the effects of their easy games on the way to the final. In the second period Melissa Ryder converted a pass from Katie Canham on the power play but the Cyclones continued to play a sluggish style and found themselves behind by a 3-1 deficit. Dundas finally began to play the inspired brand of hockey that they are capable of but time was ticking down in the game and things looked bleak.
With two and a half minutes left the Cyclone goalie was pulled at the 1:43 mark, Canham scored from a Katie Love pass and suddenly there was hope. With a face off won the goalie was pulled again and with the puck up at the point, Ryder and Kara Moulson moved the puck around causing confusion for the Coyotes. Ryder rammed home the tying goal with 2.5 seconds left on the clock and the teams would go to overtime.
The teams battled through the first overtime period without a winner and played a second overtime period 4 on 4 with no score. The third and final overtime was 3 on 3 and still could not produce a winner. So the teams proceeded to the five shooter shoot-out. Yet again the Cyclones found themselves down by two goals in the shoot out with just three shooters left but Jaime Morrison and Meagan Boyle were both up to the challenge to take the shoot-out to the next level. A sudden death shoot-out ensued and the goalies were stymying each successive shooter with Heidi Boyle making key saves to keep the game alive. Finally on the tenth shooter Moulson moved in on the goalie and slid home the winner for the Cyclones to retain the championship title for the third consecutive year. Katie Love was named the tournament's MVP for the third consecutive time.
Regular Season Capped With Win (Feb 4, 2007)
The final game of the regular season was on the road in Markham against the Stars. It had been a long time since Dundas faced this team and it was a dress rehearsal as the two teams will face off again in Provincials at month's end. The Cyclones made their traditional slow start playing a scoreless first period but in the second period Jaime Morrison scored from a Katie Canham set up. Minutes later Katie Love and Meaghan Dunn both cashed in on Hailey Murphy passes to widen the lead. Markham fought back with a goal of their own. The third period was all Cyclones as Love and Morrison scored again, Canham added one of her own and Lindsay Sauer capped the game off just before a curfew stopped the bleeding for Markham in the 7-1 final.
On Sunday morning Dundas hosted an exhibition game against London, another of their opponents for Provincials. The London team plays an age division up and is well versed in facing faster stronger competition. In a back and forth affair London was able to take the game 3-2 on a penalty shot game winner. Dundas' regular season record of 12 wins, 2 losses and 6 ties placed them first in the league with 30 points and a bye in the first round of league playoffs.
Weekend Split Holds 1st Place (Jan 28, 2007)
Missing several players on the Sunday, the Cyclones took on the east division's toughest opponent Cold Creek in Dundas. The Comets had beaten our home team girls 1-0 in overtime just two weeks ago in a tournament so Dundas was keen for a rematch. It was the Comets who took a two goal lead into the second period when Hailey Murphy and Katie Love fed Kyla Wallace to cut the lead in half. With just seconds left in the period, Cold Creek scored again to restore the two goal lead. Though the Cyclones played an inspired final period, they were unable to score and suffered just their second loss of the season.
Just hours later Dundas was on the road in Waterloo to face the Ravens. This time the Cyclones hit the ice on fire scoring seven unanswered goals before the Ravens got a pair back. Scoring the hat trick in the 7-2 win was Katie Love, while Jaime Morrison scored a pair. Hailey Murphy and Melissa Ryder added singles.
Successful Weekend in Tournament and League (Jan 14, 2007)
The Cyclones had a busy weekend of games beginning with the 23rd Annual Ice Trials at Scarborough. Game one was against Leaside with Dundas getting a slow start but managing to find the net in the third period on a pair of goals by Meagan Boyle and a single for Kara Moulson in the 3-0 final. Game two was against last season's Provincial Gold Medalist, Ottawa and a tight game was in store as the teams battled to a 1-1 tie with Lindsay Sauer scoring for Dundas. In the final round robin game, the Cyclones again came up with a 1-1 tie and again Sauer netted the only marker. The undefeated round robin status sent Dundas to the semi finals in first place against Cold Creek. The most exciting game in the tournament followed with neither team able to score through regulation time. Three minutes into overtime Cold Creek won a face off and scored the winner. In the finals Cold Creek defeated Waterloo 3-0.
Back in league play on Monday Dundas met their cross-town rivals from Ancaster. The Cyclones held a slim lead over Ancaster in the standings but the Avalanche have three games in hand heading into the end of regular season. Katie Love scored first but Ancaster tied it on a goal by Sorbara. In the second period, Melissa Ryder scored on a bullet shot from the point to regain the slim lead and in the final period, the Cyclones took charge as Love scored two more goals to complete the hat trick in the 4-1 final.
Revenge is Sweet In Come Back Win (Jan 7, 2007)
The Cyclones have only lost one game this season and it was to the Peterborough Ice Kats back in December. With a regular roster almost intact, Dundas hosted Peterborough on Sunday but found themselves flat early, surrendering a three goal lead to the visitors. With visions of a second loss to the Kats, Dundas picked up their game and Meaghan Dunn worked the puck on the power play to Lindsay Sauer behind the net. Sauer spotted line mate Meagan Boyle streaking toward the net and the Cyclones were on the board. In the final frame Dundas chipped away at the Peterborough lead with another goal as Jaime Morrison scored with assists to Katie Canham and Candice Hood. Just thirty seconds later the Cyclones tied the game when Hailey Murphy set up Kara Moulson. Not ready to settle for another tie game, the Cyclones continued to attack and were rewarded with a win when Katie Olechowski assisted Murphy on the winner.
Just hours later the Cyclones were on the road to play the Brampton Thunder. The Cyclones endured questionable officiating, enduring fifty two minutes in penalties compared to just ten minutes levied to the Brampton team. Regardless of the many manpower deficiencies, Dundas scored five times to take the game 5-1. Goals went to Katie Love, Meaghan Dunn, Hailey Murphy and a pair to Jaime Morrison. Dunn, Murphy, Moulson, Kyla Wallace and Meagan Boyle had single assists while India Paul helped out on a pair.
The Cyclones hit the road to Scarborough this weekend for a tournament and a road game next week before the next home game on January 21 against the Toronto Rattlers.
Goalie Shines in Scoreless Tie (Dec 17, 2006)
Dundas hosted the undefeated Clarington Flames Sunday at Market street and the two division leading teams entertained the fans with a stellar defensive display. The scoreless final might indicate a boring game but this one was anything but, with Cyclones' goalie Heidi Boyle standing on her head, turning away each of the thirty four shots she faced. As each period progressed, the Flames who have been averaging five goals per game, were thwarted on every attempt to take a lead.
Though Dundas' shots were not as plentiful, they had fifteen shots on several strong scoring opportunities. The Cyclones even had an opportunity to showcase their penalty killing skills as they staved off both a five on four and five on three situations during the last four minutes of the game.
The girls are off for the holidays until their next home game on January 7 when they face the only team to have beaten them this season, the Peterborough Ice Kats.
Streak Ends in Peterborough (Dec 9, 2006)
With several players unable to make the road trip to Peterborough, the Cyclones called up Samantha McMurdie from the Ancaster Midget team and went with just seven forwards and five defence against the Ice Kats. From almost the opening face off, Dundas was on their heels but did manage to get through the first period tied 1-1 when Hailey Murphy set up Katie Love for her tenth of the season. The second period was all Peterborough as the home team peppered the Cyclone net with seventeen shots scoring three goals and taking a commanding lead.
The final period saw Dundas make a final charge to bring the game close when Candice Hood scored, assisted byLove and Melissa Ryder. Late penalties prevented the Cyclones from rescuing a tie and they will have to try to get back on track against a tough Clarington team at home on Sunday.
Another streak ended Saturday when among the players unable to play due to university exams was Lindsay Sauer. Sauer held the Cyclones "Ironman" streak at 58 consecutive games dating back to the March 2005 League Allstar game.
Streak Reaches Twelve Games Despite Shaky Outing (Nov 26, 2006)
The team was first to recognize that their streak should have ended against Brampton Sunday when they couldn't seem to shake their lethargic start against the Canadettes. With just nine skaters, the visitors outskated and outworked the Cyclones throughout two and a half periods. Dundas found themselves behind by one or two goals on four different occasions before the Cyclones woke up in the third period.
Two goals in the first by Jaime Morrison and Kara Moulson were answered by Brampton and the play didn't improve in the second frame with the Cyclones making five visits to the penalty box. India Paul was able to tie the game with an individual effort before the intermission.
The final period began as the second had ended with more penalties and Brampton was able to take a two goal lead on a pair of power play goals before the Cyclones finally realized that they were in serious danger of ending their twelve game undefeated streak. With under six minutes remaining, Meaghan Dunn caused mayhem in front of the net and Katie Love tallied to bring Dundas within a goal. With under a minute remaining and the goalie removed for an extra attacker, Dunn set up Jaime Morrison off the faceoff to rescue the tie and keep the streak intact.
Cyclones Set New Record as Streak Reaches 11 Games (Nov 19, 2006)
Sunday the Cyclones set a team record for longest unbeaten streak. Eleven games into the season and riding the crest of unprecedented success, Dundas hosted Stoney Creek for the second time this season. Though the Sabres have a short bench, they always utilize their players effectively and this game was no different.
Dundas opened the scoring half way through the first period when Jaime Morrison moved the puck up to the point to Katie Olechowski who slid the puck across to her partner Melissa Ryder. Ryder unloaded a point shot blast that eluded Sabres goalie and ex-Cyclone Shannon Walker for a lead. Before the first period ended Stoney Creek scored twice on a pair from Monique Dube and took the lead.
The second period saw Dundas dominate, outshooting the Sabres 17 to 2 but were only able to score one more when Olechowski, moved the puck to Lindsay Sauer who found Meaghan Dunn out front for the second goal.
The final period was evenly matched for shots but the Cyclones scored three times to establish a commanding lead. Goals came from Katie Love, Jaime Morrison and Sarah Ackland. Assists were evenly spread out among Candice Hood, Kyla Wallace, Katie Canham, Love, Morrison, and Ackland. The Sabres fought back on a third goal from Dube but it was too late as the Cyclones prevailed in the 5-3 final.
Dundas added free agent Meagan Boyle to the roster this week from Scarborough where she was a member of last season's silver medal team.
Cyclones Streak Ties Five Year Record (Nov 12, 2006)
Last weekend the Dundas Cyclones hosted the Mississauga Chiefs having tied them a week earlier. This time the Chiefs took the lead early and though Kyla Wallace was able to tie the game on a goal assisted by Candice Hood and Katie Love, Mississauga scored a pair more in the second period. Dundas' unbeaten streak looked as if it were going to fall when Hood slid the puck behind the Chief goal where Jaime Morrison found Katie Canham in the slot and Canham blasted a laser past the goalie. Just seconds later Mississauga regained the two goal lead and things looked perilous for the Cyclones. Undaunted by the score, Meaghan Dunn combined with reunited line mates Hailey Murphy and Lindsay Sauer to bring the game closer. The same combination scored yet again to rescue the tie and keep the unbeaten streak intact.
Sunday night the Cyclones blew into Leaside to meet the Wildcats. This time the girls were determined to play a more responsible defensive game and although they had to endure eleven short handed situations, they were able to take charge unloading fifty three shots on the Leaside net. Katie Love and Meaghan Dunn both scored a pair of goals in the 4-0 final. Assists in this game went to Kara Moulson, Morrison, Love and Melissa Ryder while Dunn got a pair in her four point game.
The Cyclones ten game unbeaten streak ties a record set in November 2001.
Busy Weekend and Cyclones Remain Undefeated (Nov 5, 2006)
The second place Mississauga Chiefs hosted Dundas on Friday to open a busy weekend for the Cyclones. Dundas got an unusual quick start and scored twice in the opening period. With solid offensive pressure, Jaime Morrison worked the puck along the boards to Sarah Ackland who spotted an open Kara Moulson on the point. Moulson walked in from the point and fired her first of the season. As the period wore on the Cyclones continued to dominate puck posession and Morrison and Katie Love combined to set up Ackland for a second goal. The Chiefs picked up the pace in the second period and shrunk the lead to a goal. The third period featured the referee, who handed out sixteen penalties compromising an otherwise entertaining game between the two teams. Mississauga scored a pair of power play goals before the Cyclones on a power play of their own, saw Hailey Murphy and Lindsay Sauer work the puck out of the corner to Katie Love at the back door. Love made no mistake in driving home the goal to tie the game.
Sunday the Cyclones hosted Leaside Wild Cats where goalie Heidi Boyle made twenty saves in the 6-0 win. Offence was provided by Katie Canham's hat trick, a pair of goals by Katie Love and a single by India Paul. Lindsay Sauer, Sarah Ackland and Hailey Murphy all had a pair of assists while Jaime Morrison set up three goals.
In the weekend's final game at Cold Creek, the Cyclones faced a much tougher opponent than that morning. Meaghan Dunn opened the scoring just thirty two seconds into the game on a beauty individual effort fighting off several defenders. The lone goal stood up through numerous penalty kills and Alicia Montgomery turned away all nineteen shots for the shut out.
Cyclones Streak Stretches to Five With Two More Wins (Oct 29, 2006)
The Cyclones played a pair of games on the weekend and met the Sabres in Stoney Creek for the first time this season. On the large ice again, Dundas found themselves outskated through two periods and behind by a pair of goals. In the third period the Cyclones woke up and began to take the play away when Sarah Ackland moved the puck to Katie Love who sent it up high to a waiting India Paul for her first of the season. As the game wore down Paul moved the puck around the boards to Jaime Morrison and a quick pass found Hailey Murphy for the tie game. With just three minutes left Murphy made a beautiful pair of moves to beat both defenders and take the lead on assists from Morrison and Kyla Wallace. Morrison potted a pair of empty net goals with assists from Paul, Ackland and Candice Hood in the 5-2 final.
Back home on Sunday, Markham Stoufville visited and in a back and forth battle, Dundas held a slim one goal lead on a pair of goals by Paul and first of the season for Candice Hood. In the final frame Katie Love who had been shadowed all game long finally broke free on a pass from goalie Heidi Boyle and scored. The scoring was capped off by Lindsay Sauer's deflection of a pass off the boards from Jaime Morrison. The second 5-2 win of the weekend sees the Cyclones undeafeated with a record of 3-0-2.
Cyclones Undefeated Through Three (Oct 15, 2006)
Dundas' first road game of the season was in Clarington against the Flames for their inaugural game in the Intermediate Division. The extremely large ice surface didn't suit the Cyclones' style of play and the Flames opened the scoring in the second period, adding to that lead early in the third. Though Dundas curtailed penalties better than game one, several penalty kills made it difficult to pick up momentum. Finally in the third period, Hailey Murphy set up Meaghan Dunn for a goal to narrow the lead. With just two minutes left in the game the Cyclones rescued a tie when Murphy and Jaime Morrison fed a pass to Kyla Wallace for her first of the season. Alicia Montgomery was strong in her first start of the season, turning away 30 of 32 shots.
Back home on Sunday the Cyclones met Provincial Champion Waterloo Ravens back on the smaller Market street ice. Dundas was joined by recently signed free agent Emily Wyse from Western New York where she played last season for the Rochester Edge. An evenly played first period was followed by both teams opening up in the middle frame when veteran Meaghan Dunn worked the puck from behind the net to Lindsay Sauer who fed a pass to the high slot where new rookie Emily Wyse blasted her first of the season. In the third period Dunn delivered a beautiful torpedo pass up the middle to Sauer who broke in all alone and roofed the puck to seal the 2-0 final. Heidi Boyle got her first shut out of the season closing the door on 31 Raven shots.
Season Opener a Tie (Oct 1, 2006)
With so many new faces, the Cyclones did not set lofty expectations for the season opener against Ancaster on Sunday in Dundas. The Cyclones were defensively tentative in the opening period resulting in a goal by the Avalanche. Down by a goal in the second the Cyclones gained strength and put together sustained offensive attacks. Three of the new comers were rewarded with a goal when Melissa Ryder and Kyla Wallace set up Katie Canham for her first of the season.
A few minutes later the veterans combined when Katie Love scored to take a lead with assists from Meaghan Dunn and Hailey Murphy. Mid way through the final period Dundas widened the lead on Love's second of the game from Dunn.
The lead was not to hold up as conditioning and penalties became a factor and Ancaster scored twice to rescue a tie.
Cyclones Shaping Up for 2006/07 (sept 18. 2006)
With fall tryouts now complete the new look Cyclones have added a wealth of new talent for the upcoming season. The team has also moved to the North Metro Girls Hockey League and are looking forward to competing in the tougher league. Teams in our division include Stoney Creek, Ancaster, Waterloo, Niagara Falls, Mississauga, Brampton and Dundas.
The new look Cyclones welcome two new coaching staff members, Tania Pinelli who brings an impressive resume of experience as Niagara University Alumni, Team Ontario Gold Medalist and current goalie for the NWHL Oakville Ice Bears. Also joining Dundas is local junior player Adam Crechiola to take the role of offensive coordinator. Crech is a long time sniper with the Dundas Blues Jr C team. New to duties in a managerial role is past Cyclone Julia Crouch
New players joining the Cyclones include Brock students, Katie Canham, Melissa Ryder, Kara Moulson and Kyla Wallace. Joining the team from Hamilton is Candice Hood and from Flamborough is rookie Michelle Noiles. Returning veterans include, Katie Love, Katie Olechowksi, Hailey Murphy, Jaime Morrison, Lindsay Sauer, Alicia Montgomery, Heidi Boyle, Sarah Ackland, India Paul, and Meaghan Dunn.
Cyclones Claims Silver Medal for Southwest Ontario / Upstate New York (march 25. 2006)
The Dundas Cyclones took an unprecedented step by reaching the league finals last weekend in Rochester. Having eliminated Milverton and Brantford in the first two series, Dundas had to contend with the Rochester Edge who had not lost a single game in two seasons. The task was a daunting one and in the first game a third period flurry of activity in the Rochester zone resulting in Lindsay Sauer setting up Jaime Morrison, was the only goal that Dundas could muster in the 5-1 defeat.
Game two was a must win for Dundas and the girls came out flying, attacking the Edge players whenever Rochester managed to get a hold of the puck. Mid way through the opening period Katie Love scored an unassisted marker to establish a lead but as the period wound down Rochester gained the equalizer. The second period was all Dundas, as Meaghan Dunn and Sauer each scored to establish a two goal lead. The final period saw Rochester capitalize three times on the power play to take back the lead but with the Cyclones goalie pulled for an extra attacker and only 42 seconds left on the clock, Love set up Hailey Murphy for the tying goal.
Though a tie was not enough to capture Gold, Dundas' Silver Medal performance was a first for the team. The coaching staff was elated at the team's accomplishments this season and look forward to an even stronger group in 2006/07. Though the team often loses players who move up to the parent club at Brock University or other CIS teams, there are encouraging signs on the horizon. Two preliminary spring recruit tryouts will take place on April 13 and 16 at Olympic arena.
Cyclones Trip to League Finals a First (march 13. 2006)
The Cyclones began the semi finals against the Brantford Ice Cats last weekend. Though Dundas had come close tying Brantford in regular season and losing a close 1-0 game in Provincials, they hadn't found the formula to defeat the physically intimidating Ice Cat squad.
Game one was in Brantford and nerves were a factor as Brantford jumped to an early lead in the first period. As the second period began Caroline Murphy fed Meaghan Dunn a pass and the game was quickly tied. As the period wore on Brantford capitalized on a power play and an even strength marker to establish a two goal bulge. The third period belonged to Dundas when on a power play, Jaime Morrison moved the puck up to the point where Caroline Murphy unloaded a hard low blast. Katie Love deflected the laser past the Brantford goalie and the lead was reduced. With just over two minutes left Katie Olechowski slid a pass over to Dunn who ripped a top corner beauty to tie the game for a 3-3 final.
After a curfewed 2-1 home win on Sunday was protested, the Cyclones were forced to play a third game to establish the Gold Medal candidate. Monday night the Cyclones busted out of the dressing room on a mission. With fire in their eyes the Dundas girls skated like the Cyclone logos they wear and though they dropped a couple of goals behind in the first half of the game, they dug deep into their skills and hearts.
Behind the stellar team-inspiring performance of goalie Heidi Boyle, the Cyclones tirelessly attacked the Ice Cats' zone. India Paul's pass to Hailey Murphy resulted in a rebound that Becky Hood pounced on to open the Cyclone scoring. Just a minute later ex-Brantford Ice Cats Sarah Ackland and Jaime Morrison combined for the tying goal. It likely sent a message to their old team that letting them slip out of the Brantford ranks was a huge error. The game was now tied and Dundas was gaining momentum. Dunn and Hood found Lindsay Sauer in the slot and Sauer banged in a rebound to take the lead. Not letting up, the Cyclones continued out-skating the Ice Cats, stripping them of the puck at every opportunity. As the third period began, Dunn broke away from a defender on the boards and found Sauer heading to the net where Sauer blasted a high shot for the insurance goal. The rest of the game featured more 'highlight reel' goaltending and text book penalty killing in the 4-2 Dundas victory.
With the semi final series win Dundas gains a birth in the Gold Medal finals at Rochester Saturday to meet the Rochester Edge who have not lost a game in two years. Though the task is daunting, the Dundas coaching staff believes that on any given day, the Cyclones have what it takes to win.
Cyclones Win Championship in Barracuda Tournament (march 13. 2006)
Last weekend the Cyclones played in the Burlington Barracuda Spring Break tournament. In round robin play the offence couldn't get in flight and the team settled for a 1-1 tie with Lac Ste Louis from Quebec. The lone goal was by Meaghan Dunn.
Game two featured the Cyclones against the host Burlington team. The Cyclones scored early and often, with goals by Dunn, Katie Love, Sarah Ackland, Hailey Murphy, Kim Bauer, and a first of the season for call up Kristine Matthews. The final was 6-0 for Dundas.
The final round robin was versus the Kitchener Rangers. Again the Cyclones made an assault on the Ranger net with a hat trick to Katie Love, a pair to Jaime Morrison and Matthews tallying her second of the tournament.
The undefeated record sent Dundas to the finals with Lac Ste Louis and though Dundas outshot the Quebec team 29 to 8, goals were not easy to come by for either team. The keys to the final game were tenacious penalty killing and timely goals. In the first period Morrison scored a beauty, roofing the puck with a backhand shot to open a lead. Lac Ste Louis fought back with a goal of their own on a break away. Then Morrison iced the winning goal short handed to take the gold medal and MVP award.
Dundas now begins the league semi finals in Brantford on Saturday at 4pm in the Gretzky Center before hosting the Ice Cats in Dundas on Sunday - 11am at Market Street arena.
Cyclones Reach Quarter Finals in Provincials (feb 27,2006)
Dundas was seeded fourth in the Province for the 2006 Provincial Championships but had to face the second and third seeded teams in round robin play. In game one Dundas faced second seed Waterloo Ravens who took an early lead in the game. Through hard skating and tenacious forechecking the Cyclones scored three and held off a late charge to take the game 3-2.
Game two was against league rival Brantford Ice Cats and the Cyclones played one of their strongest games of the season. A late Brantford power play resulted in a Brantford goal and a 1-0 win.
Game three was versus North York Storm, who hadn't won in the round robin but were playing without pressure as they had nothing to lose. The Cyclones took an early lead on a goal from Meaghan Dunn but before the period ended the Storm tied it up. India Paul recaptured the lead from a point shot in the second but with just fifteen seconds left and the goalie pulled, North York scored to get the tie.
Dundas advanced to the Quarter finals against Stoney Creek and although the Cyclones played hard through the game, Stoney Creek was able to score the game's only goal late in the third to go on to the medal round. Ottawa won the Gold medal with the Scarborough Sharks taking Silver and Brantford defeating Stoney Creek to take the Bronze.
Dundas continues league playoffs with a chance to go further as they begin their Semi Final series against Brantford. Home games are Sunday at 11am in Market Street Arena.
Cyclones Advance to League Semi Finals (feb19/06)
Dundas was looking to complete the sweep in Quarter Finals versus Milverton on Sunday. The Cyclones edged the Royals 1-0 in the previous game and were looking to play a more dominant game this time. Sustained early pressure allowed Katie Love to convert a Hailey Murphy pass opening up a lead that held through the first period. In the second, India Paul assisted Meaghan Dunn to widen the lead but the rest of the second and early into the third was all Milverton as they took advantage of a Dundas let down to score a pair and even the match.
The Cyclones turned up the heat as the third period wore down and Jaime Morrison scored a pair to regain the two goal lead before Sarah Ackland buried the final marker to take the game and the series sweep.
Cyclones Repeat Champions in the U.S.(feb12/06)
The Dundas Cyclones were in Pennsylvania last weekend to defend their title in the U19 Elite division of the Sarah Backstrom Tournament. Last season the local girls had an easy time of the preliminary round but played a nail biter final, winning in the final moments after trailing by five goals.
This year the tournament opened with a game against the Midget AA Oakville Hornets. The Cylcones who were suffering from "road legs" and playing a traditionally quicker skating AA team, found themselves tied after two periods. In the third the Cyclones dug a bit deeper to score a pair more and win the opener 3-1. Katie Love, Jaime Morrison and Kim Bauer scored in the victory.
In Game two Dundas faced off against the host Erie Lions and from the opening moments took a much more dominant stance. Sarah Ackland opened the scoring in the first with help from Lisa Whitney and Jaime Morrison.
In the middle frame the Cyclones took over when during a penalty kill, Lindsay Sauer played keep away along the boards and in the corner until an opportunity presented itself and she darted toward the net sliding the puck under the Lions goalie. Before the middle frame ended, Katie Mastroluisi sent a long pass up the middle to Sauer who broke in alone and roofed her second of the game. Smelling the kill, Jamie Donnelly and Love combined with Morrison to build the lead and Hailey Murphy tallied her first of the tourney. In the final period, Murphy added her second of the game from Meaghan Dunn and Becky Hood to finish the 6-0 final.
In the final round robin game Dundas met the Coyotes of Niagara Falls New York. In an extremely physical game, scoring opportunities were limited and Love's goal from Donnelly stood up in the 1-1 final, setting up a rematch between the two teams in the final.
The Championship game was reminiscent of the 2002 women's Olympic final as the officiating clearly played a role in the game. Dundas killed off 26 minutes in penalties compared to just 4 minutes for the Coyotes. Recognizing the disparities in calls, the Cyclones played an inspired game. Whitney scored in the first period from Morrison to open a lead but the Coyotes fought back to even it before Donnelly set up Dunn to take the lead back in the second period. Again the Coyotes evened the score setting up a 'winner take all' third period. Love broke away from two defenders cutting across the net and scoring a beauty to regain the lead. With tenacious pressure two minutes later, Donnelly and Ackland found Morrison out front for the fourth Cyclone goal. Smart team defensive play and discipline in the final few minutes gave Dundas the win and back to back Championships in the tournament. With three goals on the weekend, Katie Love was awarded tournament MVP.
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Western Division All Stars
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Dundas Hosts 2005 Intermediate 'A' All Star Game
On March 20 the brightest stars from Southern Ontario played the stars from South Western Ontario at Market Street Arena in Dundas. Eastern goal scorers were Alyssa Gordon, Lindsay Sauer, and Ashley Desrochers. Laurie Bass, Roberta Martin, Brenda Minten, and Kate Harper scored for the winning Western Division. Game MVP's were Roberta Martin from the West and Dundas Cyclones' Meaghan Dunn for the East. |
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Cyclones Bring Home Tournament Champtionship From the U.S. (feb 06/05)
The Dundas Cyclones were in Erie Pennsylvania last week to compete in the Sarah Backstrom Tournament. In game one vs. Cincinnati, Dundas came out slow and were scoreless after the first period. With renewed vigor in the second and third periods, Dundas poured on the offence, with goals by Lindsay Melvaer, Katie Mastroluisi and a pair by Katie Love in the 4-0 win. Only stellar goaltending by Cincinnati kept the score from going larger. Game two was against a Pittsburgh area team and the Cyclones continued to attack, outshooting the opposition 55 to 3 and outscoring them 7-0 with goals by Lindsay Sauer with a pair, and singles to Kelly Bushey, Julia Crouch, Meaghan Dunn, Jamie Donnelly, and Stacey McPhail. The final round robin game was against the home town Erie Lions and the Cyclones didn't let up, scoring another 7-0 win with another pair of goals by Sauer and Love as well as singles to Crouch, Melvaer and Hailey Murphy. Amanda Kennedy turned away twelve shots for her third shut out in a row.
The perfect record set up a final against the power house State AAA team from Clinton Michigan. The Victory Honda team came out flying and caught the Cyclones by surprise scoring two goals in the first period and another pair early in the second. The four goal lead seemed insurmountable, but Dundas maintained their game plan of short, high speed shifts and smothering forechecking. As the second period wound down McPhail fed the puck along the boards from the point to Murphy. Murphy patiently worked it back and forth along the boards while Love got into the open. Murphy fed a pass to Love and she made no mistake putting the Cyclones on the score board. Before the period ended Love took another feed from Murphy and Melvaer to cut the Michigan lead to a pair.
The final period saw momentum build for Dundas and as the period opened on a power play, Sauer found Becky Hood on the far doorstep where Hood banged in a rebound. On the ensuing play, Becky was put into the boards hard and had to leave the game. The resulting penalty shortened the Michigan bench and the Cyclones took advantage of a longer bench and better conditioning to keep the speed and forecheck tenacious. With under three minutes in the game, a beautiful solo effort by Katie Love tied the game and made the prospect of overtime very real. The Cyclones were not about to play for a tie and with just 1:52 left in regulation, Love found Katie Mastroluisi in the low circle where 'Mastro' scored the tournament winner. Final score was Dundas 5 - Victory Honda 4.
With seven goals and four assists, Katie Love won the tournament MVP award, and the Cyclones brought home the Gold Medal trophy. The wins lead Dundas into Provincial Championships February 25-27 in Mississauga.