Minto was paired with Ripley to play the first round of the Hodges division for Novice Rep playdowns. On Saturday, Feb. 20, Minto travelled to Ripley to start the best three-of-five series.
Minto dominated most of the game and sailed to a 9-2 win. Goals were scored by Ryan Litt (two), Parker Miller (two), Noah Aitken (two), Ryan Helmka, and Andrew Mallett. Assists went to Noah Aitken (two), Drew Bell (two), Parker Miller (three), Ryan Litt (three), Josh Gray, Boston Will, Tyson Koopman, and Andrew Mallett.
The second game of the series was played in Harriston on the following Monday. Ripley came out with a new speed and challenged Minto for the first period, keeping the score close for a while. The game ended in a 6-2 win for Minto once the team gained momentum and speed to increase their chances. Goals in this game were scored by Noah Aitken (three), Parker Miller (two), and Conner Rowley. Assists went to Noah Aitken, Parker Miller, Ryan Litt (three), Josh Gray, and Ryan Helmka.
Minto went on to play game three in Ripley on Thursday, Feb. 25. Minto once again triumphed with a 3-1 win to complete the series. Goals of this game were scored by Parker Miller (two) and Noah Aitken, with assists going to Ryan Litt (two), Parker Miller and Noah Aitken.
The team moves on to the second round of the playoffs. As of press time, it wasn’t known who they play.
–Submitted by Kim Herrfort