Awards Audio, KIJHL Playoffs

Scott Jacklin and Eric Walker

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Paul Mailey

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Again it was a great night and you can watch out for a segment on the awards night and the playoffs coming up on Shaw TV this weekend.

KIJHL PLAYOFFS

I took in the Nelson/Beaver Valley game tonight. Unfortunately there was very little even strength play in the third period, but it was a very gutsy effort from the Nitehawks. I was really impressed by how Scott Morrisseau battled when I've heard he's really hurting out there... yet there he was throwing his body in front of shots late in the game. The Nitehawks didn't create much offensively once they got their lead, but they paid the physical price to keep it. They also had terrific goaltending from former Smoke Eater Paul Barclay.

As for Nelson, their skill level is again incredible for a KIJHL team. However, in this game some of their guys didn't seem willing enough to go to the dirty areas. The Leafs had a chance to move on to the second round tonight but instead allowed the Nitehawks to grab new life. Beaver Valley was just the more desperate team out there. That means a dramatic Game 6 in Fruitvale on Friday night. I know both coaches have been to the dance before and will have their guys ready. There are a ton of big playoff wins between Terry Jones and Simon Wheeldon. It's been a terrific series so far from what I've seen online and in person. Game 6 will be a battle.

Meanwhile, the Castlegar/Spokane series has completely turned. The Rebels were up 2-0 after the first two games at home, but Spokane has now rattled off three straight wins to take command. Now the Rebels are going to have to head back down to Spokane and steal a game there to stay alive. Again check out Chris' blog for more details.

If you're a local hockey fan my advice is to go check out the KIJHL game with your radio so you can listen to the Trail game and get Olympic updates at the same time.