Photo: Heather Pollock/Hockey Canada Images
OAKVILLE, ON – Fresh off a 24 save shutout performance over the Centennial Cup host, Oakville Blades on Monday night, Malachi Klassen and the Winkler Flyers are set to play their final game of preliminary round action against the champions of the Maritime Hockey League (MHL) on Tuesday night.
When they drop the puck between the Flyers and Timberwolves on Tuesday night, Winkler will hold an opportunity to position themselves with an opportunity to finish first in Pool B, should a few external factors work out.
“It feels good, that’s what we came here to do is get in the dance (playoffs) and that’s what we did,” shared Flyers goaltender, Malachi Klassen. “Miramichi will be another big test.”
After a scoreless first period against Oakville, the Flyers got back to playing their game and took over during the 2nd and 3rd periods, physically dominating their opponent while Klassen shut the door to earn his first shutout in the Centennial Cup.
“I saw a team team that came out and we struggled, we didn’t have our legs in the first period. “We came in at intermission, we regrouped, gathered ourselves and came back strong. My defense were doing a good job of boxing guys out, giving me good looks to make good saves and I was just sitting back there and doing my job.”
The 4-0 win over the Oakville Blades solidified the Flyers spot in either the quarterfinal/semi-final depending on how the next two days play out. Winkler will have their hands full on Tuesday night when they take on the Miramichi Timberwolves, who have gone 2-0-1-0, earning wins over Oakville and Sioux Lookout.
Like many other teams at the event, families and fans have travelled far and wide to see their favourite team and it’s been no different for the Flyers who have numerous fans and family members in attendance.
“It’s been awesome, my whole family, some aunts and uncles came out, it’s just incredible to see everyone who has come out to support us, it’s really cool,” Klassen concluded.
Game time is set for 6:30 PM CST between the Flyers and Timberwolves where fans can tune in to watch online here or follow along the MJHL’s social media platforms @mjhlhockey for live updates, highlights and exclusive interviews.
