Jr Thunder defeated by Delta in midweek outing

The Langley Jr Thunder, struggling as they move into the final third of the season were defeated 17 – 7 by the Delta Islanders Thursday evening at the Langley Events Centre.

The central challenge for Langley was named ‘Schuss.’ Intermediate callup Logan Schuss, a nimble marksman, scored 7 goals on 13 shots, added 3 assists to post a 10 point night. Carlton Schuss picked up another 3 goals to complete the 10 goal margin of victory.

The Thunder performance was more disciplined but uninspired as they held themselves to a mere three penalties but were unable to penetrate Delta’s defense effectively – instead firing long perimeter shots which presented little difficulty for Delta’s goalie – Graham Chandler.

Chandler had been on the Langley roster for much of the season, but left the team two weeks ago following a dispute with the coaching staff. In Delta’s net Chandler allowed 7 goals on 46 shots by his former teammates. Langley’s two netminders – Ray Hodgkinson and Devon Winter -- allowed 17 goals on 55 shots.

Notable elements in the Thunder performance included the 4 point night (2 and 2) turned in by Matt Gibson; the return to the lineup with a goal by Ryan Harwood, who was sidelined six weeks with a wrist injury, and the fact that a total of six Thunder players shared the scoring. The scoresheet showed that the Thunder definitely have men who can score. The challenge appears to be coordinating and sustaining and improving their attack.

Following the game, Coach Rey Comeault held short private meetings with each player. The results of that meeting and any changes that result will be seen Sunday afternoon when Langley hosts the Victoria Shamrocks at the Events Centre at 5:00 pm.

Scoring for Thunder:

Matt Gibson, 2 goals, 2 assists
Greg Mahony, 1 goal, 1 assist
Mitch Dibblee, 1 goal, 1 assist
Ryan Harwood, 1 goal
Colton Porter, 1 goal
Richard Willmott1 goal
Scott Davidson, 1 assist
Devin Wilson, 1 assist
Andrew Bromley1 assist
Reegan Comeault, 1 assist