Saturday and Sunday of the Pickering Challenge Cup

My Saturday games didn't start until noon, so I got to the rink a little early to give some feedback to some offiicals who were reffing in the Pickering Tournament (non challenge cup games), and then at noon I was back on the ice for Manitoba vs New Brunswick. Apparently Manitoba found their game over night as it appeared to be an entirely different team. They beat New Brunswick 11 - 2. So, from initial appearances Ontario and Alberta may be the top of the heap, but Quebec, New Brunswick, and Manitoba could upset them on any given day. Saskachewan and Nova Scotia didn't come down for the challenge cup, but I would generally be willing to throw them in the mix as well. With these events it is all about peaking at the right time. With the games still 2 1/2 months away, you can get a feel for the teams, but who knows what will happen when we get to Halifax.

I was then off until 7:00 when I reffed Quebec vs Alberta. Quebec came out strong with 2 goals in the first 6 minutes, and although Alberta came back to tie it, with just over 6 minutes remaining, Quebec scored to go ahead for good. The final was 3 - 2. As I said, the teams are quite close so it is a toss up who will make it to the finals of the challenge cup, I am not even going to start guessing who will come out on top in Halifax.

Sunday there were two games, one round robin game and the finals. I was asked to ref the round robin game between Quebec and BC. A little disappointing as I was hoping for the final (I am always hoping for the final) but will go out and skate whatever is asked of me. I had a little difficulty mentally getting into the game, it was a choppy game, without a lot of flow to it. BC was taking a lot of penalties (12 minors penalties - 2) and ultimately it cost them on the scoreboard as the final was 9 - 2 for Quebec. Overall I wasn't happy with the game I skated, partially on my part, as I wasn't in the position I wanted to be at several times through the game, and any time the penalties are so lopsided, it is difficult to stay consistent, as to continue to call the same level of penalties against a team that has already taken 12 would mean we are going to be there all night. Just generally speaking wasn't happy with the game. Hopefully the next time I see the teams in Halifax, I will feel better about the game.

Overall I was happy to get the chance to skate the Challenge Cup as it was a real eye opener on what to expect come February. Better pack the fast socks...