GTHL Game Review – Toronto Young Nationals 1:5 Toronto Titans – AAA Bantam 05’

The GTHL was back in action as the Toronto Young Nationals faced their local rivals, the Toronto Titans. The Nationals headed into this game after a 2-0 defeat in the game against the Kings. And on the other side, the Titans managed to beat the Jr. Canadiens 3-2 in their last “G” game.

Toronto Young Nationals Review
The Nationals were hoping that they can get back on track after a disappointing defeat in the game against the Kings. However, they did not start this game well and conceded early in the 2nd minute of the game. Goaltender Pratt was busy as Nationals were under constant pressure. Therefore, the end result was another conceded goal in the 6th minute of the first period. The Nationals had 3 shots on target and Pratt made 6 saves to keep the team in the game. Bullock and McKenzie had some good moments in the 1st period, but that did not cause much trouble for their opponents.

In the 2nd period of the game, the Nationals were still playing catch-up. They were not able to get the puck for prolonged periods in the period. That resulted with the Titans scoring the third goal of the game in the 2nd-minute o od the 2nd period. That third goal was a good wake up call and the Nationals stepped up their game after. They played well and had good chances through Allen and Symons. However, on one of their attacks, their opponents stole the biscuit and scored through a direct counter-attack. The Nationals ended the 2nd period of the game with 8 shots on goal.

In the 3rd period of the game, the Nationals were facing a very hard task to get back into the game. They were still pushing and managed to score a goal. However, right after that, they conceded the 5th goal which ultimately ended their hopes of getting back into the game. The Nationals ended the final period of the game with 5 shots on target.

Toronto Titans Form
The Titans started this game with determination and commitment. Also, strong confidence and quality resulted in Downey opening the score with a precise shot from a close range. An emotional celly followed which showed the unity of the team.  The Titans continued with their pressure. And Lazaris came close to score but his shots did have enough power. Yet, in the 8th minute of the 2nd period, Robinson and Brooks played out a really good combination which resulted in a great goal by Robinson.

In the 2nd period of the game, the Titans continued with their domination. And it did not take them long as they scored the 3rd goal of the game through the talented forward Brooks. Also, Brooks was at the right place in the right in the 8th minute of the 2nd period when the puck bounced off him and went straight into the net of the Nationals.

In the final period of the game, the Titans focused on maintaining the lead in order to secure the win. However, their opponents pushed for a goal and scored one. So, that increased the belief of their opponents that they can get back into the game. Yet, the Titans defended well and Terrance managed to score to a quick counter-attack for a 5-1 win.

Final Thought
Overall, the Titans justified their role as favourites in this game. Additionally, they were the better team and dominated the barn throughout the game. On the other side, the Nationals had some good moments in the game, but that was not enough as the Titans were in firm control.