The Smithers Steelheads went into the domain of the Ice Demons and survived a goal fest to win the Northern B.C. Challenge Cup, outlasting the Demons 6-5. And they did it the hard way, falling behind five times before taking a lead with only two minutes left in the game.
The Ice Demons launched the pre-season Challenge Cup tournament three years ago. It has been won by former Coy Cup Champions, the Trail Smoke Eaters, by the Demons last season and now by a third team, the Smithers Steelheads. Assistant captain Ian Smith led the way with a four point night, scoring twice and assisting twice, while Tyler Koldyk had two goals and an assist in the cause.
Darryl Young, with a goal and an assist and Darcy and Tyler Pederson, each with two assist were among Steelheads with multiple points.
Demons scorers were Daniel Mayer, two goals and an assist, Craig Hewitson, who also assisted on Ian Coleman’s goal, and Brad Owen had a single. Jeff Mildenberger had two assists as had Nick Markowsky.
The Ice Demons out shot the Steelheads 36-33 in the game. Both goaltenders made important saves, Jamie Moran for the Demons was exceptional in the first period when the home team had a hesitant start and Croft shone in the dying minutes of the game as Demons pulled their goaltender for an extra attacker in a wild finish.
The cup was presented to Steelheads captain, Dennis Olson, by Kitimat Councilor Linda Campbell.
The win set the scene for a good exchange between the two teams when they meet again Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 1 and 2, in the opening two games of the regular season.