Rebounds Happen

“Rebounds Happen~” Anoka overcomes Irondale Saint Anthony 4-2

The two days since the thrilling victory over Mounds View brought high expectations, but sometimes a reality check is good medicine. The Knights opened the game strong with the first 4 minutes grinding in the Anoka end of the rink. But with a minor penalty assessed, Anoka capitalized on the man advantage by a defensemen slapshot from the blue line to open scoring. The Knights continued to battle and tied the game with Ryan Solz accelerating and turning across the crease and scoring on a backhand (assisted by Tyler Eskro and Kevin Kvaal). No scoring and no penalties during the 2nd period.

In the 3rd period, Anoka scored an even strength goal to take the lead 2-1. Less than 2 minutes later, the Knights were penalized again with the same defensemen scoring with a slapshop on a powerplay. With time running out, the Knights continued to pressure Anoka and with a great shot off the rebound, Joseph Clark buried his first goal of the season (assisted by Nolan Neururer and Kevin Kvaal) narrowing the lead to 3-2. The Knights empty net line provided brief pressure before giving up a goal in the last minute.

In summary, the Knights outshot Anoka (27-24), but couldn’t capitalize on rebounds and second chances. 2 penalties and 2 slapshots were the difference. The Knights hope to rebound by scoring from rebounds against Blaine on Saturday at their first home game. Irondale assessed 4 minor penalties > Anoka 2 minor penalties.