Satellites clinch 2nd place despite OT loss to Lloydminster

Tofield Satellites clinched second place in the Battle River Hockey League with one game remaining in the regular season, after dropping a 5-4 decision to third place Lloydminster Border Kings on Saturday night at Tofield Arena.

A good crowd of just under 100 witnessed a well-played back-and-forth game with several lead changes and a dramatic finish which favoured the visitors.

The referees influenced the outcome of the game in a couple of ways: first, they tossed one of Tofield’s best offensive forces Jake Quast for a borderline checking-from-behind penalty late in the first period; then called several phantom penalties against Satellites, giving Lloyd unequal PP opportunities including near the end of regulation play resulting in the tying goal. The 7-3 powerplay advantage favouring the visitors was not indicative of the play.

Satellites first line of Joel Tessier with Quast and Rene Tessier was flying as usual until the skilled forward was ejected by the referees late in period one. But Justin Wood did a nice job replacing Quast … for more see the Jan. 27/15 Mercury